Sotheby’s and Abu Dhabi Investment Office unveil $100m in coloured diamonds at landmark exhibition

Sotheby’s, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), has unveiled a $100 million collection of coloured diamonds in a landmark public exhibition, marking the global debut of one of the rarest gems ever seen - The Mediterranean Blue.

Taking place at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation on Saadiyat Island, this historic showcase is Sotheby’s first public exhibition in Abu Dhabi in over 15 years and will run until 10 April. The exhibition features some of the most sought-after shades in the world’s most precious jewel, in a presentation described by Sotheby’s as unprecedented in the Middle East - and rare even by global standards.

At the heart of the exhibition is The Mediterranean Blue, a 10.03-carat Fancy Vivid Blue diamond of VS2 clarity, estimated at $20 million. This exceptional gem will go under the hammer at Sotheby’s High Jewellery auction in Geneva on 13 May, making its market debut after captivating collectors and curators in the region.

“An exhibition of this kind and scale on diamonds has never been staged before in the Middle East, and very rarely anywhere else in the world,” said Katia Nounou Boueiz, Deputy Chairman of Sotheby’s Middle East and Head of Sotheby’s UAE. “It is exciting to mark our return to Abu Dhabi in such an illustrious way.”

Joining The Mediterranean Blue is a remarkable line-up of coloured and colourless diamonds - many of which are available for private sale. Among the highlights are the largest flawless diamond in the world, a 303.10-carat Fancy Deep Brownish Yellow diamond dubbed The Golden Canary, and the Desert Rose, a 31.68-carat Fancy Vivid Orangy Pink diamond.

“The Middle East is one of the most dynamic drivers of the global luxury industry,” said Quig Bruning, Head of Jewels for the Americas, Europe and Middle East at Sotheby’s. “It is an immense privilege to assemble such an extraordinary collection of diamonds for the first time here in Abu Dhabi.”

The exhibition also marks a significant cultural moment for the UAE capital as it continues to establish itself as a hub for art, design and high jewellery. “This exquisite exhibition marks an exciting milestone in Abu Dhabi’s evolution as a global destination for art, culture, and luxury,” said Noora Al Foulathi of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office. “We are proud to bring such a rare collection of precious gemstones to the capital.”

Visitors can view the exhibition daily from 10am to 8pm at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation until 10 April. Guided tours are available via sothebys.com/Beyond.