The world of fine jewellery has just witnessed a dazzling milestone. Alrosa, one of the globe’s largest diamond mining companies, has unveiled The New Sun—a polished fancy-vivid-yellow diamond weighing over 100 carats, making it the largest coloured diamond ever cut in Russia.
At Diamonds4Change, we love celebrating iconic moments in the diamond world—and this one combines artistry, innovation, and rarity in equal measure. Here's everything you need to know about this extraordinary gem and what it means for the industry.
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A Diamond Born from Dawn
The journey of The New Sun began in 2020, when Alrosa discovered a remarkable 236-carat rough diamond at its Ebelyakh deposit in the remote region of Yakutia. The rough stone, named Dawn, stunned experts with its intense golden hue and sheer size.
Rather than rushing to polish and market it, Alrosa took a patient, highly technical approach to shaping its future.
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Two Years, One Masterpiece
Fifteen of Alrosa’s master diamond cutters dedicated over two years to turning Dawn into The New Sun. Using cutting-edge technology and traditional craftsmanship, the team:
Created a full 3D model of the rough diamond
Performed spectral colour analysis to assess depth and saturation
Simulated multiple polishing strategies virtually to determine the optimal shape and cut
Focused on preserving carat weight while maximising colour brilliance
The result? A radiant, honey-toned diamond that retains exceptional size and clarity, while fully expressing its vibrant colour.
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Why This Diamond Matters
The New Sun isn’t just another large stone—it represents a rare combination of factors:
Size: At over 100 carats, it joins a tiny group of polished coloured diamonds of that magnitude
Colour: Fancy vivid yellow is one of the most sought-after colours, prized for its richness and rarity
Origin: Russian coloured diamonds of this quality are extremely rare, making this stone a national treasure
This diamond’s story also highlights the evolving intersection of technology and craftsmanship in modern gem cutting—a balance that’s essential to preserving beauty and value.
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Alrosa's Challenges Behind the Shine
Despite the brilliance of The New Sun, Alrosa has faced major headwinds. In 2024, the company reported a 77% plunge in profits and announced temporary closures at some of its smaller mines. Factors included:
Global sanctions
A downturn in the diamond market
Impairment charges and declining demand
Yet, the success of this diamond proves that even in challenging times, extraordinary creations can still emerge.
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What This Means for Jewellery Lovers
For collectors, designers, and diamond fans around the world, The New Sun sets a new standard. It reminds us of the rarity and power of coloured diamonds—and the patience, skill, and technology it takes to reveal their full brilliance.
At Diamonds4Change, we’re inspired by this story—not only because of its artistry, but because it represents the kind of excellence we strive for in every ethically sourced piece we offer. Whether it’s a bespoke engagement ring or a minimalist pendant, we believe every diamond should carry a story as radiant as the one who wears it.
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Conclusion: A New Light in the Diamond World
The New Sun stands as a testament to what’s possible when innovation and craftsmanship unite. While not everyone can wear a 100-carat fancy vivid yellow diamond, it sparks a conversation about the future of gem artistry, the role of technology, and the emotional connection we all have to beauty.
And whether you're buying a diamond for love, legacy, or self-expression—you deserve one that shines with meaning