When it comes to the world of high jewellery and gemstone auctions, certain names stand out. Sotheby’s (Instagram) and Adler Joailliers (Instagram) are two such names, and they’re about to make waves in the auction world with the unveiling of ‘The Blue Lagoon.’ This is not just any gemstone; it’s the largest top-quality Paraiba tourmaline ever to grace an auction.
The ‘The Blue Lagoon’ is no ordinary gem; it’s a natural masterpiece, weighing an astonishing 93.94 carats. This incredible piece takes centre stage adorning a bespoke necklace, a star attraction at the upcoming Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels Sale in Geneva on 8th November, with an estimated value of CHF 1.3 – 2.5 million (approximately $1.4-2.7 million).
This exceptional event is part of Sotheby’s Luxury Week, a renowned seasonal series held in Hong Kong, New York, and Geneva. It’s where the world’s most extraordinary and coveted items, from jewellery and watches to handbags and accessories, find new owners.
Paraiba tourmalines are gems steeped in history and allure, first discovered in Brazil during the 1980s. Their vibrant electric blue hue has made them highly sought after, often surpassing the value of sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. However, top-quality Paraiba tourmalines typically come in smaller sizes and are not without internal imperfections. ‘The Blue Lagoon’ shatters these norms with its impressive size, impeccable clarity, and captivating turquoise colour, all achieved without heat treatment.
Adler Joailliers has taken this mesmerizing gem and meticulously crafted a necklace featuring a waterfall of shimmering round, marquise, and pear-shaped diamonds, collectively weighing over 76 carats. The design is described as “classic with a twist,” sophisticated in its simplicity, echoing Adler’s signature high jewellery, a fusion of exquisite craftsmanship and timeless style.
But what makes ‘The Blue Lagoon’ truly extraordinary is its origin. This natural tourmaline hails from Mozambique and boasts natural clarity and colour, without any heat modification. The term “Paraiba” refers to the vividly coloured tourmalines first mined in a specific area of Brazil, but now it encompasses greenish-blue specimens of vivid to deep saturation, regardless of their source. Over the last two decades, Mozambique has emerged as a leading source for top-quality coloured stones.
Sotheby’s New York set a world record when they sold the Estrela de FURA ruby for an astonishing USD 34.8 million. Weighing 55.22 carats, this ruby remains the highest price ever paid for a ruby at auction, underscoring the growing appreciation for rare and exceptional gemstones.
This November, Adler Joailliers and Sotheby’s are set to make history once again with ‘The Blue Lagoon.’ Whatever it ends up selling for, this is surely one of the most incredible pieces we’re ever likely to see.
For more dazzling gems and captivating jewellery, explore our fashion pages.
