Rare Blue Diamond Expected to Fetch $15 Million at Auction

A 35.56 carat blue diamond from the 17th century, which was part of the dowry of the Infanta Margarita Teresa, is expected to fetch about $15 million when it goes on sale at a Chritsie’s auction on December 10. The Wittelsbach Diamond is being placed on the international market for the first time in almost 80 years.

Francois Curiel, international head of jewellery at Christie’s, noted: "The appearance of a large blue diamond, among the rarest of colors, with a history that can be traced back to the 17th Century and 300 years of royal connections, will surely be a thrilling occasion for all collectors of rare jewels."

King Philip IV of Spain reportedly selected the finest gemstones for the dowry of his 15-year-old daughter, the Infanta, upon her betrothal. Upon her death, in 1673, her husband, Emperor Leopold, retained the dowry and the blue diamond was passed on to his heirs.
 
(Rachel Lieberman, Israel Diamond Industry Portal)