Blue Diamond Up For Auction

Published on 04/11/08

A 17th century blue diamond is set to go up for auction next month.

The gem, which could be used in items such as gold diamond rings or diamond necklaces, will be sold at Christie's in London on December 10th.

Infanta Margarita Teresa previously owned the 35.56-carat stone, which was given to her by King Phillip IV of Spain.

A spokesperson for the auction house said: "Blue diamonds are rare and to offer a blue diamond of this size, quality, shape and provenance is truly extraordinary."

Meanwhile, Francois Curiel, international head of jewellery for Christie's, described the sale as a "thrilling occasion" for collectors due to its royal connections, size and rarity.

The stone is expected to sell for up to $15 million [£9.4 million] and could become the most expensive gem of its kind.

Earlier this year, a 13.39-carat blue diamond sold for a world record price of $8.9 million.