Largest Diamond Ever Auctioned Expected To Sell For Up To $35 Million

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By Diamaris Martino

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Some diamonds aren't meant to be just for rings.

The world's largest flawless white diamond ever auctioned is on the block today in Switzerland.

The 163-carat stone is the centerpiece of an emerald and diamond studded necklace.

Set into an asymmetric necklace designed by de GRISOGONO and offered on 14 November at Christie's in Geneva, this 163.41 carat, flawless D-colour emerald-cut diamond is the largest ever to come to auction. (Credit: Christie's)

The centerpiece is the size of a matchbox, and is set to be auctioned off at Christie's "Magnificent Jewels" sale in Geneva, Switzerland.

Originally it was part of a 404-carat rough stone, that was the largest diamond ever discovered in southwest Africa.

The necklace is expected to be sold for up to $35 million.