New York—After canceling the final installment of a controversial sale, Christie’s is looking to get its autumn agenda back on track with a special stone. 

 

The auction house has announced the leading lot of its Geneva “Magnificent Jewels” jewelry auction, the 17.61-carat “Bleu Royal” diamond. 

 

The stone is the largest internally flawless fancy vivid blue diamond to ever appear at auction, Christie’s said.  

 

The pear-shaped stone has been part of a private collection for 50 years. The Christie’s Geneva sale will mark its first auction appearance.  

 

“This is a true miracle of nature,” Christie’s International Head of Jewelry Rahul Kadakia said.  

 

“Over our 257-year-long history Christie’s has had the privilege of offering the world’s rarest gems at auction, and Blue Royal continues this tradition. We are proud to offer collectors the opportunity to own a diamond fit for royalty.” 

 

Christie’s estimates the Bleu Royal will sell for $35 million-$50 million.