The 9.51-carat gem remains one of the world’s most prized vivid-blue diamonds despite softer market conditions
The Mellon Blue, a 9.51-carat fancy vivid blue diamond once owned by renowned American art collector Rachel Lambert “Bunny” Mellon, has sold for $25.6 million at Christie’s
Magnificent Jewels auction in Geneva
Set in a platinum ring, the diamond achieved a price within the auction house’s pre-sale estimate, though approximately 20 percent lower than its previous auction result in 2014, when it sold in New York for $32.6 million.
The Storied Provenance of the Mellon Blue Diamond
The Mellon Blue takes its name from Bunny Mellon, a prominent philanthropist, horticulturist, and art collector who was among the most influential figures in American high society during the 20th century.
The diamond’s deep blue hue – graded Fancy Vivid Blue – and its VVS1 clarity place it among the rarest gemstones ever discovered. Experts note that the stone is potentially internally flawless, an attribute that adds to its exceptional value among collectors.
Mellon Blue Diamond Sale Reflects Softer Market Dynamics
While the diamond remains highly sought-after, its lower selling price reflects a softer luxury market in 2025, influenced by geopolitical tensions and economic headwinds.
These factors have contributed to more cautious bidding at high-value auctions across Europe and Asia.
Despite these challenges, the Mellon Blue’s sale represents one of the highest prices ever achieved for a vivid-blue diamond at Christie’s, underscoring continued demand for exceptional colored stones with distinguished provenance.
The Mellon Blue: An Enduring Symbol of Rarity at Christie’s
Weighing 9.51 carats, the Mellon Blue now ranks as the third-highest-priced vivid-blue diamond sold at Christie’s. Its combination of color purity, clarity, and storied history continues to make it one of the most celebrated gems in the world of fine jewelry.
