(Associated Press March 12, 2008)

Pear-Shaped Diamond to Be Auctioned

NEW YORK (March 12) - A 72.22-carat diamond, so large it could fill a tablespoon, is expected to bring up to $13 million when it goes on auction next month.

Cut from an original rough diamond, the D-color, flawless gem is prized for its pear shape and GIA-graded excellent polish and symmetry. D-color is actually colorless and considered the most highly valued.

It was previewed in Manhattan on Monday and will be offered on April 10 at Sotheby's Hong Kong galleries, which estimates its value at $10 million to $13 million. The buyer has the privilege of naming the stone.

Sotheby's said the most expensive diamond and jewel sold at auction, the pear-shaped, 100.10 carat Star of Season, brought $16.5 million in May 1995.

This 72.22-carat, pear-shaped diamond is so large it could fill a tablespoon. And if bidders need another reason to cough up the $13 million the gem is expected to fetch, the lucky winner will also get the privilege of naming the stone.