52-Carat Flawless Diamond From India's Legendary Golconda Mines Headlines Christie’s December Auction

A 52.58-carat D-flawless stunner sourced from the legendary Golconda diamond mines in south central India is the headliner of Christie’s Magnificent Jewels auction set for December 10 in New York City.

Christie’s described the octagonal-cut diamond as having “superior luminance, luster and distinct brilliance.” It is expected to fetch between $9.5 million to $12.5 million.

Back in April, the extraordinary “Princie” — also sourced from the Golconda mine — rocked the auction world when it sold for $39.3 million at Christie’s New York. The 34.65-carat cushion-cut fancy intense pink diamond was the most valuable diamond ever sold by this auction house.

For centuries, India's most prized diamonds have been known as the "diamonds of Golconda," and some of the most famous stones unearthed at the ancient Golconda mines have included the 45.52-carat deep blue Hope Diamond and the 105.60-carat Koh-i-Noor.

Other notable items on the block at Christie’s this December include the following:

• A platinum necklace featuring a 22.12-carat D color, VVS1, pear-shaped diamond. The necklace by Leviev is accented with alternating marquise-cut and oval-cut diamonds weighing a total of 38.76 carats. It has a pre-sale high estimate of $3.5 million.

• An 18-karat white gold necklace highlighted by a 91.38-carat cushion-cut Burmese sapphire and unique horizontally set baguette-cut diamonds. It is expected to fetch up to $1.2 million.

• Unusual platinum ear pendants boast impressive 18.98-carat and 16.75-carat Colombian emeralds, pearls and old-mine cushion-cut diamonds. The pair has a pre-sale high estimate of $850,000.

• Colorful multi-gemstone “Tutti Frutti” bracelet was made by Cartier circa 1930. The platinum Art Deco piece features oval-shaped jade cabochons, carved ruby and sapphire leaves, black onyx vine detail and old European-cut diamonds. It is expected to sell for up to $500,000.

Overall, Christie’s December 10 event, which concludes the winter auction season, will include 500 lots and is expected to garner more than $45 million in total sales.