The 'Graff Ruby' Exceptionally important and exquisite ruby and diamond ring, Graff

The cushion-shaped ruby weighing 8.62 carats, set between triangular diamond shoulders within a mount decorated throughout with brilliant-cut diamonds, size 59, signed Graff, together with an alternative ring mount, Graff.

Rubies of Burmese origin cannot be imported into the US. This piece contains a ruby of Burmese origin and therefore cannot be imported into the US. Please contact the jewellery department for further information or see our Important Notices. Accompanied by Gübelin report no. 11060194, dated 29 June 2011, and SSEF report no. 45948, dated 20 February 2006, both stating that the ruby weighing 8.62 carats and measuring 13.35 x 10.76 x 5.64 mm, is of Burmese origin, with no indications of heating. Signed GRAFF on the inside of the band. According to the SSEF report, the ruby is of medium strong saturation and of 'pigeon blood' vivid red colour; please refer to the SSEF and Gübelin reports for further information; clean to the naked eye, with a few inclusions visible under 10x magnification, a very few nicks and abrasions, one natural to the girdle. The ruby is an extraordinarily bright and clean crystal of superb colour. The triangular diamonds weigh approximately 1.25 carats each, G-H colour, VS clarity. Small diamonds bright and lively. Gross weight approximately 12 grams. Alternate ring mount: Signed GRAFF. Engraved 8.62 cts, indicating the weight of the ruby. Normal signs of wear to the metal, scratches consistent with use. Gross weighing approximately 32 grams.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This spectacular gemstone was first sold at auction nearly nine years ago. It quickly soared to some six times its low estimate and was purchased by the celebrated jeweller Laurence Graff establishing a world record price at auction for a ruby of its size.

Mr Graff named the stone after the sale the ‘Graff Ruby’, and in a Bloomberg interview in February 2006 was quoted as saying ‘…the cut and spread of colour is the finest I have ever seen’.

Since then, the prices for truly exceptional Mogok rubies, arguably the rarest of all gemstones, have continued to soar on the very few occasions they have appeared on the market.