Fine Jewels And Watches November 2018
Lot 2379:
Lot was removed from auction
Centering upon a heart-shaped fancy deep grayish yellowish green ‘chameleon’ diamond weighing 1.56 carats, within the pink hue diamond border, surrounded by pear-shaped diamonds, to the three-quarter-hoop, mounted in 18K white and rose gold, other diamonds weighing approximately 4.60 carats in total, ring size 6
Accompanied by a report from the Gemological Institute of America, stating that the 1.56 carat diamond is fancy deep grayish yellowish green, natural color and SI1 clarity, with laser inscription registry, report no. 6191828000, dated 29th April 2015
With additional comment stating that the color of this stone changes temporarily when gently heated, or when left in darkness for a period of time and is known in the trade as "Chameleon"
Blue and pink diamonds may be the pinnacle of fancy-colored diamond collecting and without doubt commanding stratospheric prices at auction due to their extreme rarity and flamboyant colors. However, the little-known chameleon diamond is also at the top of that pyramid. Like the tiny animal that changes color to adopt the surrounding environment, the chameleon diamond fascinates connoisseurs with its ability to temporarily change color after a prolonged storage in the dark or being heated to 150° C, known as the photochromic and thermochromic behavior patterns. The ‘classic’ chameleon would shift from an olive green color to intense brownish or orangy yellow to yellow color. Contrarily, the ‘reserve’ chameleon diamond acts the exact opposite to the ‘classic’ chameleon diamond, from yellow to green color. After exposure to light or cooling down from the heat, the chameleon would gradually revert to its original color. The reason for its ephemeral phenomenon remains a mystery to gemologists and scientists. As they are so rare and valuable, researchers have found it difficult to procure samples to study. Needless to say, an opportunity to purchase one is more than rare. The source of chameleon diamond is almost depleted, the last time a chameleon diamond was offered in a Hong Kong auction was in 2011.
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