THE GOLDEN SPLENDOR

There are a limited number of commercially viable diamond mines currently operating in the world, with the 50 largest mines accounting for approximately 90% of global supply, though gem-quality diamonds in superb size and clarity are perennially rare. The fabled mine in India named Golconda yielded some of the world’s most famous gems and prized for their incredible qualities; unfolding over centuries of splendor which connoisseurs and traders are enticed and en route to become its entourage. This 59.93 carats magnificent fancy deep orange brown diamond is certified as a Type IIa diamond by GIA due to absence of Nitrogen impurities, which normally can confer a yellow, brown, orange, pink, red, or purple colour to the gem. For this Golden Splendor, the presence of orange-brown colour in type II diamonds is believed to be derived from deformation which distorts the crystal lattice during the growth of the diamond. Type IIa diamonds make up to 1–2% of all natural gem quality diamonds produced.

During the Renaissance period, the name "Golconda" acquired a legendary aura and became synonymous for vast wealth. Mysticism and other magical powers were always associated with diamonds in the culture of India. Diamonds were considered as talismans and were believed to embrace powers derived from the gods, aspiring happiness, prosperity, and offspring inheritance. Only kings, priests or upper hierarchy were allowed to possess the pure Golconda diamonds. The mine in the ancient kingdom of Golconda in south central India was depleted in the early 18th century, large diamonds with high quality and clarity are extremely rare to encounter ever since. "The Golden Splendor" (Lot 266) has been part of a prestigious Indian Family’s collection for over 100 years, the mesmerising golden orange colour triumph the splendeur of that era.

The cut of a diamond has been refined throughout history and modifying brilliant faceting style to intensify the face-up colour is popular among fancy diamonds nowadays. Such modification is unnecessary for The Golden Splendor, it is elegantly fashioned in a traditional oval brilliant cutting style which effortlessly enhance the strength of its intense and lively colour. The ancient Indians also believed it was inauspicious to alter a diamond's natural state, thus the culet of The Golden Splendor is retained, passing onto the next generation with its glorified history.

It is exceedingly rare for a diamond to grow in this substantial size under the dynamic forces within the earth, which makes this magnificent diamond even more scarce and coveted as stated on the GIA monograph, “The rich, orange brown colour of La Splendeur Doree embodies the spirit of its name – the majestic hue rendered ever more impressive with its 59.93 carat size. La Splendeur Doree’s billion-year history tells of its journey from deep within the earth to the hands of its fortunate owner. This golden-coloured diamond is a magnificent example of the extent to which nature’s creative powers can captivate and astound, time and time again.” The Golden Splendor is a coveted wonder from the nature that captivates every collector’s heart.