Back in 1970, the Zale Corporation purchased a 435-carat rough diamond, which was subsequently cut into the 127-carat, internally flawless, D-color sparkler known today as the “Light of Peace.” At the time, Zale’s founders Morris and William Zale saw the diamond not only as a source of corporate pride, but also an opportunity to promote the company’s ideals and goals.

The Zales arranged showings of the diamond to the public, with the ticket sales providing funding for peace-supporting initiatives, including assistance to refugees. A progressive notion at the time, the Zales believed that private enterprise could make a more meaningful contribution to society by promoting the ideals of peace. Previously, only governments played that role.
The benevolent brothers enlisted former Supreme Court Justice Arthur J. Goldberg to administer the foundation’s funds, which included an initial grant of $250,000.
On June 7 at Christie’s New York, the “Light of Peace” enters the limelight one more time as the top lot of the auction house’s Magnificent Jewels sale. The pear brilliant-cut diamond is expected to fetch between $10 million and $15 million, with a portion of the proceeds going to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The gem is being sold without a reserve.
The New York Times reported in a 1970 story that the 2-inch by 2-inch rough was about to be fashioned into a pear-shaped diamond that was expected to weigh 150 carats. At the time, that carat weight would have ranked it as the second largest pear‐shaped diamond in the world. The Times added that the finished diamond would be exhibited throughout the country, with the proceeds from ticket sales going to a foundation dedicated to peace.
Zale Corp. entrusted the cutting of the diamond to one of its experts, Alex Franckel, who took a year to study the rough. He reportedly made multiple castings of the diamond in lead and lucite so he could visualize in advance the best way cleave the diamond. In addition to the mammoth hero stone, the original rough diamond yielded 12 significant satellite stones, ranging in size from 0.37 carats to 9.11 carats.
Zale Corporation sold the diamond formerly known as the “Zale Light of Peace” in 1982 to an unnamed buyer, the same buyer who will be offering it for sale at Christie’s auction in June.
Other notable lots from the upcoming sale include the following:

A fancy vivid blue cushion modified brilliant-cut diamond weighing 3.10 carats, set in a platinum ring. Presale estimate is $4.2 million – $5.2 million.

A pendant featuring a cushion mixed-cut sapphire weighing 71.27 carats and accented with 10 round brilliant-cut diamonds in a platinum and 18-karat yellow gold setting. Presale estimate is $3 million – $5 million.

A fancy vivid blue cut-cornered rectangular modified brilliant diamond weighing 2.97 carats and set in a platinum ring. Presale estimate is $2.5 million – $3.5 million.
Credits: Images courtesy of Christie’s.
Thank youElliott's Jewelers - Huntsville, TX has been instrumental in helping us reach our fundraising goals. For the last three years, Elliott has donated our fundraiser grand prize. His generosity deserves special recognition.
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Young Artists Win Hearts in Sketches to Sparkles Jewelry Contest
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Breslyn Trevino and Madelei Marti win CASA’s Sketches to Sparkles jewelry contest with heartfelt designs for their moms.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
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✨ The beauty of a custom engagement ring lies in the intricate details—and in the journey of collaborating with a personal jeweler who truly understands your lifestyle and values. At Elliott’s Jewelers, we dedicate ourselves to realizing your vision, crafting a ring that's uniquely yours. 💍
📞 Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online—available 6 days a week! www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/
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✨ Discover a Jewelry Experience Designed Just for You! ✨
Book a private appointment at Elliott’s Jewelers for a personalized, one-on-one consultation in a relaxed atmosphere. Explore our stunning collection at your leisure!
📞 Call Elliott’s Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or secure your appointment online: [Book Now!](www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/)
💍 Browse our exquisite pieces online: [Shop Now!](www.elliottsjewelers.com/shop/)
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The beauty of a custom engagement ring is in the details—and in the experience of working with a personal jeweler who learns about you, your lifestyle and what is important to you.
At Elliott’s Jewelers, we take the time to understand your vision, crafting a ring that it is meant just for you.
Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online at: Appointment 6 days a week!
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Enjoy a jewelry experience tailored just for you. Book a private appointment at Elliott’s Jewelers for a one-on-one consultation and a relaxed setting to explore our stunning collection. Appointments are available 6 days a week.
Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online at:
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✨ Diamond Pendants That Grow With Her ✨
Celebrate every milestone with a pendant as unique as her journey! Whether she loves a classic solitaire, a chic bezel-set, or a dazzling halo design, these everyday diamond pendants are made to shine solo or sparkle stacked.
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The beauty of a custom engagement ring is in the details—and in the experience of working with a personal jeweler who learns about you, your lifestyle and what is important to you.
At Elliott’s Jewelers, we take the time to understand your vision, crafting a ring that it is meant just for you.
Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online at: Appointment 6 days a week!
www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/
Browse online at:
www.elliottsjewelers.com/shop/ ... See MoreSee Less
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