Unveiling the Captivating Colors of the Aurora Diamond Collection

The Aurora Diamond Collection is a mesmerizing showcase of nature's most extraordinary creations, a testament to the boundless beauty and diversity of diamonds. Amassed over the course of nearly 25 years by renowned diamond collectors Alan Bronstein and Harry Rodman, this unparalleled collection consists of 296 diamonds, weighing a total of 267.45 carats, that span the entire spectrum of naturally occurring diamond colors.

The name "Aurora" was inspired by the breathtaking natural phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis, the captivating displays of multicolored lights that dance across the night sky. Just as the Aurora is a result of charged particles from the solar wind interacting with the Earth's magnetic field, the Aurora Diamond Collection is a dazzling display of the myriad ways in which diamonds can express their natural beauty.

The collection features diamonds in a staggering array of pure colors, including blue, green, olive, yellow, brown, orange, red, pink, purple, black, gray, and white. But the true marvel lies in the modified colors, where the diamonds showcase a harmonious blend of hues, such as grayish blue, purplish pink, orange pink, brownish pink, purplish red, brownish red, and so much more.

While the majority of the diamonds in the collection weigh less than one carat, their impact is anything but small. The shapes of the diamonds represent the full spectrum of cutting styles, from the classic round brilliant to the captivating cushion, pear, and heart shapes, each one a unique work of art.

The Aurora Diamond Collection is a testament to the incredible diversity of the natural world, a celebration of the endless possibilities that lie within the earth's most precious gemstone. As Alan Bronstein eloquently stated, "Gems like these were not meant to be imprisoned in a dark underground safe for the momentary pleasure of a few eyes. The true value of a collection is sharing it with as many people who are interested in experiencing nature's diversity of expression."

The Inspiration Behind the Collection

The journey that led to the creation of the Aurora Diamond Collection began with a chance encounter that would forever change the course of Alan Bronstein's life. In his own words, "I will always remember that day in 1980 when a golden yellow diamond that burned like the evening sun setting in the western sky was flashed in front of my eyes by a fellow trader. It had a hypnotic glow that kept me staring in wonder. I did not know at the time that this experience had been for me a true epiphany, that the revelation of such beauty would instill in me a passion to learn everything possible about these mystical stones."

From that moment on, Bronstein was captivated by the allure of colored diamonds, and he began to amass a collection that would eventually become the Aurora Diamond Collection. Initially, his focus was on the more commonly traded colors of yellow, pink, and blue diamonds, but as his collection grew, he expanded his search to include the less popular hues, such as brown, orange, olive, and gray.

The Serendipitous Discovery of a Chameleon Diamond

One of the most remarkable discoveries in the history of the Aurora Diamond Collection was the accidental purchase of a 2.50-carat pear-shaped dark olive green diamond. When Bronstein first acquired the stone, it was certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) as a natural colored diamond. However, upon closer inspection, Bronstein noticed that the color of the diamond had mysteriously transformed from olive green to an intense yellow, and then back again.

This unexpected change in color was the telltale sign of a rare and highly sought-after "chameleon" diamond, a phenomenon that occurs when the diamond's color is influenced by external factors such as temperature or exposure to light. Bronstein's serendipitous acquisition of this unique diamond was a testament to the endless surprises that the world of colored diamonds has in store for those who are willing to explore its depths.

Sharing the Beauty with the World

As the Aurora Diamond Collection continued to grow, Bronstein and Rodman made the decision to share their extraordinary treasure with the world. They arranged the diamonds in intricate patterns and designs, creating a visual feast that celebrated the infinite variety of nature's expression.

The collection has been featured in numerous prestigious exhibitions, including a long-term display at the American Museum of Natural History and the "Diamonds" exhibition at the Natural History Museum of London, which attracted over 3.6 million visitors. By opening the doors to their collection, Bronstein and Rodman have inspired countless individuals to appreciate the captivating beauty and diversity of the natural world, one diamond at a time.

The Aurora Diamond Collection stands as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a deep appreciation for the wonders of the natural world. It is a collection that invites us to marvel at the endless possibilities that lie within the earth's most precious gemstone, and to celebrate the infinite beauty that can be found in the most unexpected places.