We'll start the bidding at 900,000...
An insanely large and equally beautiful yellow diamond, seized by the US government after a money laundering investigation, went on the auction block today.
The 43.51 carat cushion cut "Golden Eye" diamond is an internally flawless, intense fancy yellow diamond, making it one of the most rare of its kind in the world. It was believed to have come from the Kimberley area of South Africa and somehow found its way into the hands of Ohio businessman Paul Monea. If the name sounds familiar (...) he's the guy who made millions after making the super popular ads for Billy Blanks during the Tae Bo crazy in the late 90's.
Monea is currently serving a 13 year prison sentence for his involvement in the money laundering bust, while the US Marshal service is set to make a huge payday after auctioning of the diamond which is believed to be worth 15-20 million dollars.
The U.S. Marshals Service's online auction of the 43.51-carat Golden Eye diamond began Tuesday and continues until Thursday afternoon. By mid-afternoon Tuesday, four bids were submitted, including one for $1.5 million.
The diamond belonged to a northeastern Ohio businessman who was convicted of money laundering and conspiracy. Prosecutors say he tried to sell the diamond and an estate once owned by boxer Mike Tyson to an undercover FBI agent for $19.5 million and a boat.
The diamond was seized and forfeited to the government. The U.S. Marshals Service contracted with Silver Spring, Md.-based company Bid4Assets to auction it online.
Source: Internet Stones
Source: Internet Stones
US Marshall official, Denise Bortnick, says that 20% of the proceeds will go to the US Marshall service with the remaining money going to the federal and local agencies that assisted in the investigation.
As for Monea, perhaps he can show off the kick boxing skills he learned from Billy to his fellow inmates.
~vK
~vK
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