Christie’s to Auction the ‘Light of Peace’ Diamond and Other Rare Jewels

Although pear-shaped diamonds are perceived to have a modern cut, the style’s history goes back to mid-15th-century Flanders. In 1475, a Flemish diamond cutter invented a diamond-polishing wheel known as a scaif. The wheel helped him make symmetrical facets on a diamond, and very soon he created the first known pear-shaped diamond in the world. The upcoming Christie’s sale will feature a pear-shaped brilliant-cut diamond weighing 126.76 carats. Accompanied by a custom gold and gem-set presentation case, it is known as the ‘Light of Peace.’ The lot was previously owned by the Zale Corporation of Dallas. A blue fancy colored diamond ring, weighing 3.10 carats, is also a key highlight of the auction. Associated with regality and wisdom, azure is a very rare hue among fancy diamonds. Also of note is another blue colored ring fashioned with a rectangular modified brilliant diamond. 

A striking Art Deco necklace from Chaumet, designed with square-cut emeralds and diamonds, will be offered as well. At the peak of the Art Deco period, the jewelry house was a leader in geometric designs, which was a prominent trend in the era. Visit Christie’s to view the complete catalog and register to bid in the upcoming Magnificent Jewels sale.