A 555.5-carat Black Diamond From Space Is Being Auctioned Off - 2 minutes read
Image: Sotheby’s
Sotheby’s Dubai has unveiled a 555.5-carat black diamond, which is one of a kind. This rare gemstone, dubbed “The Enigma,” is thought to have come from outer space and was formed by a meteoric impact or a “diamond-bearing” asteroid that collided with Earth. A natural black diamond of this size is an extremely rare occurrence, according to Sotheby’s, and is expected to sell for at least US$6.8 million. It will be shown in Dubai and Los Angeles before going up for auction in February.
Black diamonds, also known as Carbonado diamonds, can be dated between 2.6 and 3.8 billion years ago and contain trace amounts of nitrogen and hydrogen — elements found in space. They also have osbornite, which is a mineral found in meteorites. The diamond is a natural phenomenon, according to Nikita Binani, a jewellery specialist at Sotheby’s in London.
“Its sale represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire one of the rarest, billion-year-old cosmic wonders known to humankind,” she said in a press release.
Image: Sotheby’s
The diamond’s shape was inspired by the Middle Eastern palm symbol of the Hamsa, which is a sign of protection and also means “five” in Arabic. According to Sotheby’s, the number five runs throughout the stone. It has exactly 55 facets in addition to its 555.55 carats. From February 3 to 9, the diamond will be available for bidding online and will accept cryptocurrency as payment.