A remarkable 30.20 carat fancy intense yellow diamond is set to lead the upcoming June 8 Exceptional Jewels auction at Bonhams in New York, carrying an estimated value of up to US$550,000.

The centerpiece ring features a cushion cut fancy intense yellow diamond graded VS2 clarity, mounted within a surround of round brilliant cut diamonds. The impressive stone is expected to attract strong international attention as demand for rare coloured diamonds continues to remain firm among collectors and high net worth buyers.

The New York auction will present more than 150 exceptional jewellery lots, including important creations from renowned houses such as Harry Winston, Tiffany & Co. and Cartier.

Among the standout pieces featured in the sale are:

• An emerald cut 11.20 carat E colour VS1 clarity diamond ring with an estimate of US$250,000 to US$350,000.

• A Harry Winston ring showcasing a 7.08 carat cushion cut Colombian emerald flanked by tapered baguette cut diamonds, also estimated at US$250,000 to US$350,000.

• An 8.23 carat faint pink internally flawless diamond ring surrounded by round brilliant cut diamonds and accented with trapezoid side stones, carrying an estimate of US$180,000 to US$280,000.

• A pair of diamond earrings featuring matching 5.01 carat cushion cut E colour VS1 clarity diamonds, suspended beneath kite shaped diamonds, estimated at US$180,000 to US$280,000.

The sale highlights the continued strength of the high end coloured diamond and important gemstone market, particularly for rare natural fancy colour diamonds and exceptional signed jewellery pieces.