The 55.22-carat Estrela de Fura, described as “the world’s largest gem-quality ruby in existence”, is expected to be sold for more than $30 million at Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels auction in New York on June 8, IDEX Online reports.
The world record for the highest price ever paid for a ruby is currently “held” by the Sunrise Ruby, a 25.59-ct cushion-cut gem sold for $30.3 million ($1,185,451 per carat) at Sotheby’s Geneva in May 2015. According to the report, it is “one of only two rubies that have ever broken the $15m barrier at auction.”
The Estrela de Fura was recovered in Montepuez, Mozambique, by Dubai-based miners Fura as a 101-carat rough ruby.
Quig Bruning, head of Sotheby’s jewelry, Americas, said: “Estrela de Fura 55.22, is a true wonder of nature and sensational stone of perfect color and exceptional clarity, combined with a superb cushion shape. It is undoubtedly positioned to become the standard bearer for African rubies.”
