For more than six decades, the House of Graff has been entrusted with some of the world’s most exceptional diamonds, transforming extraordinary rough stones into creations of remarkable beauty. Among the gems that have shaped the House’s legacy, few are as significant as the Graff Icon diamond.
Discovered in South Africa’s renowned Premier Mine at the close of 1999, the remarkable rough diamond weighed an extraordinary 338.46 carats. Acquired directly by Graff, the stone embarked upon a journey that would ultimately secure its place in diamond history. Under the care of the House’s master artisans, nearly a year was devoted to studying, cutting and polishing the gem, with every decision approached with exceptional precision.
The transformation began with the cleaving and sawing of the rough crystal, which yielded five exquisite satellite stones: a 14.56-carat cushion-cut diamond, a 10.08-carat round brilliant, a 4.04-carat marquise, a 3.56-carat emerald cut and a 3.06-carat oval. Yet the greatest challenge remained the principal stone itself. With a diamond of such rarity, every facet carried significance, every adjustment balancing artistry with risk. Throughout the process, each stage was carefully monitored and reviewed by Laurence Graff, whose expertise and vision guided the stone’s evolution.
The result was nothing short of extraordinary. On 26 July 2000, the Gemological Institute of America certified the finished diamond as a 90.97-carat round brilliant, graded D Flawless with Excellent Polish and Excellent Symmetry. The GIA further recognised it as the largest round brilliant-cut diamond of D colour and flawless or internally flawless clarity it had graded at the time. A masterpiece of craftsmanship, the Graff Icon became one of the House’s most celebrated achievements.
Today, the legacy of this remarkable diamond lives on through the Graff Icon engagement ring setting. Inspired by the stone that bears its name, the design reimagines the classic solitaire through a distinctly contemporary lens. At its heart sits a singular diamond, embraced by a delicate halo of pavé-set stones that amplifies its brilliance and presence. The effect is one of light, radiance and refined elegance, enhancing the beauty of the centre stone while preserving its individuality.
Timeless yet unmistakably modern, the Graff Icon embodies the House’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship and exceptional diamonds. More than an engagement ring setting, it is a tribute to one of Graff’s most significant gemstones and a reflection of the artistry that transformed a rare rough crystal into a diamond of historic importance. For those drawn to enduring design and extraordinary provenance, the Graff Icon offers both: a contemporary classic rooted in one of the most remarkable diamond stories ever told.
Images courtesy of Graff
