Blue Diamond Sells for More Than $44 Million at Christie’s Auction in Geneva 

A Christie's employee displays "Bleu Royal," a rare 17.61 carats internally flawless fancy vivid blue pear shaped diamond, during a preview at the Christie's, in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023. (Keystone via AP)
A Christie's employee displays "Bleu Royal," a rare 17.61 carats internally flawless fancy vivid blue pear shaped diamond, during a preview at the Christie's, in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023. (Keystone via AP)
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Blue Diamond Sells for More Than $44 Million at Christie’s Auction in Geneva 

A Christie's employee displays "Bleu Royal," a rare 17.61 carats internally flawless fancy vivid blue pear shaped diamond, during a preview at the Christie's, in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023. (Keystone via AP)
A Christie's employee displays "Bleu Royal," a rare 17.61 carats internally flawless fancy vivid blue pear shaped diamond, during a preview at the Christie's, in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023. (Keystone via AP)

The largest fancy vivid blue diamond to ever come to auction sold Tuesday for more than $44 million, far outstripping the pre-sale estimate, Christie’s said.

The “Bleu Royal” — a ring featuring a fancy vivid blue pear-shaped diamond of 17.61 carats — was one of the standout pieces to go under the hammer at the auction house for Geneva’s Luxury Week.

Christie’s had estimated the ring would fetch around $35 million.

The auction house said the sale made the “Bleu Royal” the most expensive jewel sold at auction this year.

Christie’s said the gemstone would be handed over to another private collection for the first time in 40 years.



Madinah to Host Second Umrah and Ziyarah Forum on Monday

Madinah to Host Second Umrah and Ziyarah Forum on Monday
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Madinah to Host Second Umrah and Ziyarah Forum on Monday

Madinah to Host Second Umrah and Ziyarah Forum on Monday

The second edition of the Umrah and Ziyarah Forum will commence on Monday, under the patronage of Madinah Governor Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
The forum, organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in collaboration with the Pilgrim Experience Program, will feature a diverse range of specialized events centered on the Umrah and visitation sector, with a focus on the latest advancements.
An interactive exhibition will showcase innovative technical solutions and services, while workshops will gather decision-makers and experts to discuss development opportunities, present cutting-edge solutions aimed at improving the pilgrim experience, and enhance the sector's overall efficiency, SPA reported.
Building on the success of its inaugural edition, this year's forum aims to further elevate the experience of Umrah performers and visitors. It will explore avenues for improvement through technological advancements, digital transformations, and sustainable investments within the sector, with the goal of establishing new benchmarks for the Hajj and Umrah journey.
The forum is expected to host over 150 exhibitors from more than 100 countries and attract over 25,000 visitors, including investors, experts, industry leaders, representatives from the non-profit sector, and media outlets.