# The historic Mellon Blue diamond sold for about 439-million-rand at a Christie’s auction in Geneve. The 9.51-carat fancy vivid blue stone was named for the late arts patron Rachel “Bunny” Mellon. The pear-shaped diamond was the star lot of the Magnificent Jewels sale in the Swiss city. While the price fell within its estimated range, it confirms the strong, elite appetite for extraordinary colored gems. The sale secured its place as Christie’s third-highest price for a vivid blue diamond at auction.
Mellon Blue diamond sells for R439-million at auction in Geneva