#Canada #Toronto #Auction #Paraiba Tourmaline #Kat Florence

The World’s Largest Flawless Paraiba Tourmaline Set to Auction

The captivating world of gemstones is about to witness a momentous occasion with the auction of the Kat Florence Lumina, a flawless Paraiba tourmaline weighing an impressive 181.61 carats. This exceptional gemstone is the largest of its kind and is currently wrapping up its global debut tour with final exhibitions in key cities across Asia, showcasing its unmatched beauty and brilliance.

Discovered in 2003 by gem hunter Don Kogen during his expedition in Mozambique’s Mavuco district, the original crystal weighed a staggering 830 carats. Recognizing the exceptional potential held within this rough gemstone, Kogen envisioned that a clean 300-carat stone could be polished from it, which would have been considered ambitious by any industry standards.

In 2009, the gem-making industry marked a significant milestone when the 191.87-carat Ethereal Carolina Divine Paraiba was crowned the largest Paraiba tourmaline. It was recognized by Guinness World Records and valued between $25 million and $125 million, setting the bar for rarity and luxury in the gemstone world.

Fast forward to 2025, and the monumental stone remained uncut until Kat Florence, an esteemed jewelry designer and Don's wife, compelled him to revisit the unrefined gemstone. The couple engaged in a meticulous process that involved transforming the original crystal. Initially, they managed to yield a 315-carat gem from the crystal, impressive yet lacking the vivid brilliance expected from such a remarkable stone. It exhibited “windowing,” a term referring to the flatness that detracts from the gem's inherent fire and liveliness.

Never one to compromise on quality, Kat envisioned a flawless stone and enlisted her elite cutting team for this endeavor. The result of their dedicated efforts was nothing short of miraculous—the Kat Florence Lumina emerged as a perfectly proportioned and brilliantly cut 181.61-carat Paraiba. This masterpiece is now certified by esteemed institutions such as Bellerophon, AGL, and Gübelin Gem Lab, further solidifying its status as a rare gem that perfectly unites size, color, clarity, and cut.

Currently, the Kat Florence Lumina is completing its last exhibition tour, scheduled to showcase in:

• - Taipei: April 11–13
• - Singapore: May 10–11
• - Hong Kong: May 17–21

On May 22, collectors and gemstone aficionados will have the opportunity to bid on this remarkable jewel during its auction at Bonhams Hong Kong. With its unparalleled characteristics, The Kat Florence Lumina promises to be an extraordinary investment for connoisseurs and collectors.

Kat Florence is celebrated globally for her remarkable craftsmanship, particularly in handling the rarest gemstones available. This auction will undoubtedly be a landmark event for both gem enthusiasts and collectors alike, further showcasing the luxury and allure that define the world of high-end gemstones.

For more information about the auction and the remarkable journey of the Kat Florence Lumina, visit Kat Florence's official website and Bonhams.

As the countdown continues to this thrilling event, the world watches in anticipation to see who will be fortunate enough to take home this breathtaking piece of nature’s artistry.