Sotheby’s Returns to Abu Dhabi After 15 Years With a $100 Million Sparkle
Sotheby’s is making a dazzling return to Abu Dhabi with its first public exhibition in the capital since 2009. The event, titled “Beyond: The World’s Rarest Diamonds,” is being held at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation on Saadiyat Island from April 9 to 10, 2025, between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.
“The Mediterranean Blue”: The Rare Gem’s Debut in Abu Dhabi
The centerpiece of this exhibition is “The Mediterranean Blue,” a 10.03-carat Fancy Vivid Blue diamond. Blue diamonds are among the rarest in the world, with less than 0.3% of diamonds analyzed annually exhibiting a predominantly blue hue.
“The Mediterranean Blue” stands out for its captivating color and for its significant size and exceptional quality.
The Journey from Cullinan Mine to Masterpiece
Discovered in 2023 at South Africa’s renowned Cullinan Mine, the original 31.94-carat rough diamond underwent over a year of meticulous planning and six months of cutting and polishing to achieve its current form, according to Forbes. The result is a cushion-shaped modified brilliant-cut gem that exemplifies the pinnacle of diamond craftsmanship.
Geneva to Host Sotheby’s Gem Auction in May
Following its Abu Dhabi debut, “The Mediterranean Blue” will embark on a global tour, including stops in Taipei, Hong Kong, and New York, before culminating in Geneva, as mentioned on Gulf Insider. There, it is expected to command approximately $20 million at Sotheby’s High Jewelry Sale on May 13, 2025.
Abu Dhabi’s Growing Influence in Luxury
The exhibition comes months after Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, ADQ, committed £770 million to acquire a minority stake in Sotheby’s, according to Sotheby’s International Realty’s website.
Additionally, Sotheby’s Head of Jewels for the Americas and EMEA, Quig Bruning, highlighted the importance of showcasing this extraordinary diamond in Abu Dhabi, noting that the venue’s architectural features complements the gem’s rare beauty.
Sotheby’s return to the capital with a $100 million treasure represents the growing prominence of the region in the global art and luxury markets.
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