The Round Cut Diamond - ‘Martian Pink’ fetches $17million

Among the extraordinary diamonds that have gained fame in the world history, the ‘Martian Pink’ stands out as the rare, largest pink fancy coloured diamond.

This diamond, weighing 12-carats fetched $17.4 million at an auction in Hong Kong this week. This is the first time the largest round cut diamond went under the hammer. The ‘Martian Pink’ appeared in the market for the first time in 36 years and was sold for double its estimate price.

Distinguished as the “largest round fancy intense pink diamond” ever in the bidding race, this spectacular gemstone was the limelight for the Christies’ Jewellery Action that took place on Tuesday, which raised an estimate of $80 million. 

"Having appeared on the market for the first time in 36 years, The Martian Pink sold by Harry Winston in 1976 created a sensation during its worldwide exhibition tour and achieved a staggering $17.4 million after a 10-minute bidding war," said Vickie Sek of Christie's Asia.

The diamond was bought by an anonymous buyer, the auction house said.

"The $80m million auction was highlighted with top prices across the board, culminating in a world record price of $551,000 per carat for a perfect Burmese ruby of 6.04 carats," Sek added.

Owing to the growing luxury market in China, Hong Kong is emerging as the world's third biggest auction center after New York Jewelry Store and London.