De Beers and Christie’s Partner for ‘Rare Treasures of the Earth’: An Unforgettable Diamond Exhibition

The world of haute joaillerie is set to be enthralled by an extraordinary collaboration as De Beers, a name synonymous with unparalleled diamond expertise, joins forces with the prestigious auction house, Christie’s. This groundbreaking partnership will culminate in an exclusive exhibition titled ‘Rare Treasures of the Earth’, showcasing De Beers’ profound knowledge in diamond grading, testing, and educational services, all while presenting some of the most magnificent geological wonders.

Scheduled to take place next month, the De Beers Group Institute of Diamonds – an integral part of De Beers Group Industry Services (formerly known as IIDGR) – will host this captivating public display. Held at Christie’s esteemed London premises, the exhibition promises an intimate encounter with exceptionally rare coloured diamonds, alongside a fascinating array of unique rocks and minerals. This provides an unprecedented opportunity for the public, press, and industry professionals alike to delve into the captivating allure and intricate science behind these miracles of nature.

A Glimpse into the Earth’s Most Precious Wonders

Leading this dazzling display is the iconic ‘Cullinan Dream’, a breathtaking 24.18-carat Fancy Intense Blue VS2 rectangular-shaped diamond. This phenomenal gem originates from the storied Cullinan mine in South Africa, historically known as the Premier mine – a source renowned for yielding some of the world’s most significant and sought-after diamonds. Its vivid blue hue and exceptional clarity make it a true masterpiece of natural artistry.

The Allure of Colour: A Spectrum of Rarity

Beyond the grandeur of the Cullinan Dream, the exhibition will present a stunning kaleidoscope of other extraordinary coloured diamonds, each a testament to nature’s artistry and geological marvels. Highlights include a mesmerising 2.01-carat Fancy Vivid Pinkish Purple Diamond, whose intense saturation and unique secondary hue create a truly captivating presence. Also on display will be a 1.09-carat Fancy Purplish Red Diamond, a gem of profound rarity, as red diamonds are among the scarcest of all coloured diamonds. Adding to this vibrant collection is a striking 1.42-carat Fancy Vivid Bluish Green Diamond, showcasing an exceptional blend of two highly prized colours. These particular diamonds not only captivate with their beauty but also represent the pinnacle of rarity and value in the gemological world, making their public display a truly special event.

An Immersive Educational Journey with De Beers

‘Rare Treasures of the Earth’ is more than just a visual spectacle; it is a profound educational experience. Throughout the exhibition, the De Beers Group Institute of Diamonds will host an engaging series of interactive, hands-on demonstrations. These sessions are specifically designed to provide independent retailers, private consumers, and the press with invaluable insights into every meticulous stage of grading and testing rare fancy coloured diamonds. This commitment to transparency and education underscores De Beers’ dedication to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for these unique gems.

Unlocking the Secrets of Diamond Quality

One of the exhibition’s key features will be an interactive diamond grading station. Here, guests will have the extraordinary opportunity to observe a wide spectrum of diamond colours firsthand. They can then put their newfound knowledge to the test by attempting to correctly assign a colour grade to a ‘mystery’ stone, gaining a practical understanding of the nuances involved in this critical aspect of diamond assessment. This direct engagement provides a unique perspective on the precision and expertise required in professional diamond grading.

An on-site mini laboratory, equipped with state-of-the-art gemmological microscopes, will further enhance the educational experience. Visitors will be invited to explore the intricate world of diamond clarity by plotting inclusions – the natural birthmarks within a diamond – under magnification. Furthermore, the laboratory will offer insights into cut grading, demonstrating how subtle differences in a diamond’s cut influence its light performance, brilliance, and overall beauty, by allowing guests to compare the dazzling effects in a trio of meticulously cut diamonds. This deep dive into the 4Cs (Carat, Colour, Clarity, Cut) provides a comprehensive understanding of what makes each diamond unique and valuable.

The De Beers Table Inscription: A Mark of Trust and Authenticity

Another highlight for visitors will be the chance to view a De Beers Group Institute of Diamonds table inscription up close under a microscope. This proprietary in-house inscription process is exclusive to the De Beers Group and represents a significant advancement in diamond identification and consumer assurance. It involves applying a minuscule, invisible-to-the-naked-eye inscription to the diamond’s table facet, which is only discernable under high magnification. This unique mark serves as an irrefutable identifier, offering unparalleled peace of mind to buyers and reinforcing the authenticity and integrity of De Beers graded diamonds. It is a testament to the brand’s commitment to ensuring trust and transparency in the global diamond market.

With an illustrious history spanning over 130 years of unparalleled diamond grading experience, the De Beers Group Institute of Diamonds brings unmatched authority to this exhibition. Their extensive expertise means they have graded the vast majority of the magnificent diamonds featured in the ‘Rare Treasures of the Earth’ exhibition. This includes an impressive collection of red, purple, blue, and pink diamonds, each selected for its extraordinary size, exceptional quality, and profound rarity. Their meticulous grading ensures that every gem presented meets the highest standards of evaluation and authenticity.

Voices from the Forefront of the Diamond Industry

Jonathan Kendall on Partnership and Assurance

Jonathan Kendall, the esteemed President of the De Beers Group Institute of Diamonds, eloquently articulates the significance of this collaboration: “With our unparalleled expertise and extensive experience in the diamond industry, we firmly believe we are the natural choice of partner for Christie’s for this display of such rare and high-value diamonds. All these magnificent pieces will be available for purchase, accompanied by comprehensive De Beers Group Institute of Diamonds grading reports. This commitment to detailed certification provides Christie’s discerning clientele with complete assurance and absolute peace of mind, knowing they are acquiring genuinely rare and authenticated treasures.”

Kendall further elaborated on the educational impact of the event, stating, “This exhibition offers a truly fantastic opportunity for us to engage directly with the end-consumer. It allows us to share the immense wealth of knowledge we possess regarding diamond origin, inherent rarity, specific colour characteristics, precise grading methodologies, and rigorous testing protocols. Our shared passion for these miraculous creations of nature makes this a truly perfect partnership, and we eagerly anticipate developing our relationship with Christie’s further, fostering a deeper appreciation for these extraordinary gems among a global audience.”

Mei Giam on the Unrivalled Allure of Coloured Diamonds

Echoing this sentiment, Mei Giam, Christie’s Jewellery Private Sales Director, shared her enthusiasm for the project: “The coloured diamond stands as the world’s most valuable gemstone, an exclusive beauty revered globally for its unparalleled rarity and its unique, individual colour expression. At Christie’s, we share a profound dedication to scholarship, meticulous research, and exceptional expertise in the field of fine jewellery. Therefore, we are absolutely delighted to collaborate with the De Beers Group on our Private Sales Jewellery event, ‘Rare Treasures of the Earth’. This exhibition promises an enriching exploration into the fascinating origin, inherent rarity, and immense value of these truly extraordinary gemstones, offering our clients an unparalleled insight into their enduring appeal.”

Exclusive Acquisition: Private Sales Opportunities

Beyond the public viewing, ‘Rare Treasures of the Earth’ presents an exclusive opportunity for acquisition. The rare diamonds, exceptional gemstones, and unique minerals featured in the exhibition will be available for immediate purchase by private clients. These discerning individuals are part of an extensive, global network of high-profile collectors and industry professionals who seek out the finest and rarest pieces the world has to offer. This private sales model ensures that these extraordinary treasures find homes with those who truly appreciate their unique beauty and profound value, handled with the discretion and expertise synonymous with Christie’s.

Mark Your Calendars: Exhibition Dates and Location

This unique and highly anticipated exhibition is scheduled to take place from November 8th to November 12th, 2019. It will be hosted at Christie’s renowned London headquarters, located at 8 King Street, St. James’s, London SW1Y 6QT. Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit to ensure they do not miss this rare opportunity to witness some of the earth’s most captivating geological treasures and gain insights directly from the leading experts in the diamond industry.

The collaboration between De Beers and Christie’s for ‘Rare Treasures of the Earth’ represents more than just an exhibition; it is a celebration of geological wonder, human expertise, and the enduring allure of diamonds. It underscores the shared commitment of both institutions to education, authenticity, and showcasing the pinnacle of natural beauty to a global audience. This event promises to leave a lasting impression on all who attend, further solidifying the legendary status of coloured diamonds and the meticulous craft involved in bringing them from deep within the earth to the pinnacle of luxury.