THE MOST BEAUTIFUL DIAMOND IN THE WORLD
By Julie Chrystyn - Westminster Independent
Princess Diana has been known to state that her husband never gave her an “important” piece of jewelry.
Hence, I would like to suggest that Prince Charles would like to alter this image. Perhaps he may gift “the woman he loves” with the Archduke Joseph Diamond – which many experts are dubbing as the most beautiful diamond in the world.
The world-renowned master jeweler, Alfredo J. Molina, often referred to as the Harry Winston of our day, has managed to secure this rare gem. The House of Molina is known among collectors for its rare and pricey jewels. They include a dazzling US$13 million Burmese ruby and diamond ring, a cushion-cut Burmese sapphire ring valued at US$1 million, and a natural fancy vivid yellow diamond radiant-cut ring worth US$1.9 million.
But the jewel in the crown is Mr. Molina’s latest acquisition, the Archduke Joseph Diamond, a D-flawless gem that dates back to 17th century India. At 76.45 carats, it is said to be the 12th largest historical white diamond in the world. Mr. Molina showcases the diamond on an 86 carat necklace. Thus, at a cool 161.45 carats, the Archduke Joseph Diamond can be yours for a mere US$30 million.
The Gemological Institute of America stats that the Archduke Joseph Diamond is internally flawless and possesses that limpid transparency and soft luminescent quality that is described as “Golconda” by experienced diamond dealers.
This almost indefinable water-clear appearance is characteristic of stones from the legendary diamond district of Golconda in India, in what is now the state of Hyderabad. Described in detail by the seventeenth gem merchant, Jean Baptistte Tavernier, in his book, Travels in India, the miners of this area are believed to have been the source of many of the world’s famous diamonds such as the Koh-i-Noor and the Regent.
Mr. Molina’s clients span the globe although he is based in America’s beautiful southwest desert of Phoenix, Arizona. Often, he brings the world to him. Every October the company’s “British Extravaganza” ties into the British Luxury Council bringing in European designers for a three-day event.
There’s an open house for the general public to meet and greet the designers and to view the jewellery, objets d’art, sterling silver, blown glass, and leather goods.
Unfortunately, these minds were depleted in the mid-eighteenth century. No other sources have been found since that produce diamonds exhibiting this limpid transparency.
The beautiful elongated cushion-shaped stone derives its name from its first known owner, Joseph August Victor Clemence Maria, Archduke of Austria and Palatinate of Hungary, great grandson of Emperor Leopold II of the House of Habsburg, one of the primary ruling dynasties of Europe.
The Jeweller, Alfredo J. Molina, is appreciated for his professional uniqueness and personal integrity as much as his jewels are valued for their quality. The philanthropist who gave more than US$3 million to charity last year is involved in numerous humanitarian efforts. “One measures success by the positive influence one exerts over others,” Mr. Molina says.
Entrepreneurs
Alfredo J. Molina served on the Export Advisory board from 1998-2000 and sponsored the Prince’s Trust Award for several years. The Trust’s main goal is to help young entrepreneurs by making loans available for initial capital. Mr. Molina says the program has been immensely successful and the annual startup has exceeded 5,000 new businesses.
During the Christmas holidays, Molina Fine Jewelers underwrites and extravagant Black Tie Gala benefiting various charities. The Spring brings the Molina Polo Classic to benefit abused children. A multitude of other events are held throughout the year. “Life is a passion,” says Mr. Molina. “Happiness to me is inner peace with who you are and the attitude to overcome the challenges life presents to you” he added.
Those who know Mr. Molina will say in unison that he likens himself to a rhinoceros – the animal well known for its persistence and its two-inch thick skin. “I do not believe in fear,” he says, “I learned early on that the meaning of fear translates into false evidence of apparent reality.”
Rhinoceros Success by Scott Alexander, compares people to two types of animals: rhinos and cows. In this book, the author premises that rhinos have a single focus when they are charging and that they have amazingly thick skin. On the other hand, cows sit in the field and graze, waiting to be slaughtered. “Rhinos have no fear,” says Mr. Molina, “I like this observation.”
We may all observe the Archduke Joseph Diamond on the lovely Celine Dion as she returns to performing and appears in concert on April 7th on CBS television in American, and before the flashbulbs of the general media.
Alfredo J. Molina will be scouring the globe looking for “the rarest and most valuable gems,” he says. “It is a passion that requires my continuous attention.” And our continuous admiration.
