The largest ruby ever to be offered at auction, the magnificent 55.22-carat “Estrela de Fura,” has sold for a staggering $34.8 million (£28 million) at Sotheby’s in New York, setting a new world record for a ruby and any colored gemstone sold at auction.
Described by Sotheby’s as a “once-in-a-lifetime” jewel, the cushion-shaped ruby captivated bidders, ultimately fetching a price that significantly surpassed its pre-sale estimates. The identity of the buyer has not been disclosed.
The extraordinary gem originated from a colossal 101-carat rough stone discovered last year in a mine in Mozambique, a nation in northern Africa increasingly recognized for its vast ruby deposits. Polished rubies exceeding five carats are considered exceptionally rare, making the “Estrela de Fura” an unprecedented find in both size and quality.
The sale of this remarkable ruby underscores the enduring allure and significant value of top-tier gemstones in the global market.
