The diamond of all records unveiled by Sotheby’s Dubai

Gemstone collectors are currently on tenterhooks, awaiting the launch of the sale of the world’s largest diamond. A rare variety of black diamond – which earned it the nickname “The Enigma” – that weighs in at 555.55 carats, is on public display from today until January 20 at Sotheby’s Dubai.

The unique jewel will be on display at the Dubai Diamond Exchange, before heading to Los Angeles and London, where it will be open for online bidding from February 3 to 9.

 

You Can Buy The Largest Diamond Ever Auctioned—A 555 Carat Black Gem—With Crypto (Photos) https://t.co/UzlYgcnVKc pic.twitter.com/WJikWv8r00

— Forbes (@Forbes) January 17, 2022

A rock like no other

The black carbonado diamond is a very unusual natural phenomenon. Dating back 2.6 to 3.8 billion years, it is believed to have been formed from a meteoric impact or a diamond-bearing asteroid that collided with the Earth. It contains traces of nitrogen and hydrogen abundant in space, as well as osbornite, a mineral only present in meteors.

Its size and composition are not its only characteristics. It is also rich in symbolism as its shape is inspired by the Middle Eastern palm-shaped symbol, the Hamsa – a symbol of protection against the “evil eye”. The Hamsa is associated with the number five, and the diamond is not only 555.55 carats in size, but also contains exactly 55 facets. Lovers of digital curiosities will undoubtedly see this as another reason to try to acquire the precious jewel.