Rare 31.86 Carat Orangy Pink Diamond Shatters Sotheby’s Auction Records in Abu Dhabi

United Arab Emirate Jewellery News: Desert Rose Stuns at Sotheby’s Landmark Auction

In a dazzling debut that captivated the global jewelry world, a 31.86-carat Fancy Vivid orangy pink diamond—dubbed the Desert Rose—was sold for an astonishing US$8.8 million at Sotheby’s first-ever auction in Abu Dhabi. The sale exceeded all expectations, far surpassing the gem’s pre-sale estimate of $5 million to $7 million and establishing a new world record for an orangy pink diamond. According to private sources, the buyer of the diamond was a UAE citizen.

Pear-shaped orangy pink diamond sells for $8.8 million at Abu Dhabi debut auction
Image Credit: Sotheby’s

While previous pink diamonds have fetched higher sums at auction, they were typically listed under broader categories like Fancy Vivid Pink. What sets the Desert Rose apart is its GIA-certified orangy pink classification, a rarity in the diamond world that makes it a true collector’s gem. This United Arab Emirates Jewellery News report highlights the growing interest in ultra-rare colored diamonds as investment-grade assets.

Intense Bidding and Record Participation

The pear-shaped VVS1-clarity diamond sparked a fierce 20-minute bidding war, with five determined buyers escalating the price in $50,000 increments. The gem was a centerpiece of the 42-lot sale titled “Precision & Brilliance: Prestigious Jewels & Watches from an Important Private Collection,” which ultimately raised over $25.4 million—well above the $20 million estimate.

According to private sources, the buyer of the diamond was a UAE citizen
Image Credit: Sotheby’s

More Highlights from Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week

Held at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, the auction also featured a coveted set of four Star Caliber 2000 Patek Philippe pocket watches, selling for $11.9 million. Sotheby’s confirmed that collectors from 35 nations participated, with nearly a quarter of bidders hailing from the UAE.

This rare gemstone’s unprecedented sale underscores how the global appetite for elite collectibles continues to flourish.

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