subject: Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond in NYC [print this page] Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond in NYC Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond in NYC
The New York City museum currently houses one of the world's rarest and most expensive diamonds, the Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond which is characterized bu its deep grayish blue color. The said precious stone was discovered back in the 17th century in the Asian continent, particularly India.
The diamond, which is currently one of New York's premiere attractions, weights 31.06 carats but it was heavier before it was re-cut, weighing 35.56 carats. Re-cutting the gem was necessary as it enhanced its color as well as its clarity. The Museum of National History will house the precious stone from Thursday, October 28 and it will celebrate the New Year's Day in the same place as it is scheduled to leave January 2, 2011.
The exquisite stone was purchased by Laurence Graff back in 2008. He is a London based jeweler who shelled out $24.3 million to acquire the diamond. According to Christie's that sets the record for any diamond and jewel which was sold at an auction.
The Hope Diamond which was formerly called "Le bleu de Franc" is known as the world's largest deep blue diamond, it weights 45.52 carat. It's discovery traces back to the 1600s, there legends saying that the stone was stolen from the eye of Sita's sculpture. Sita is the wife of Rama and the seventh avatar of Vishnu. However, there are also accounts saying that the legend was invented simply to add mystique to the stone. The Hope Diamond is permanently displayed at the Smithsonian's Natural History Museum in Washington.
The Surat Rough Diamond Sourcing India Limited (SRDSIL) recently engaged in an agreement with Zimbabwe upon signing an MoU. As this is the case, the company is now looking at Russia and Angola as its potential source for rough diamonds.
