M.S. Rau’s $348,500 Diamond Soccer Ball Is Ready for Its World Cup Close-Up
Original article written for JCK

| Diamond Soccer Ball, 507.50 Carats. M.S. Rau |
Just in time for the FIFA World Cup tournament, which opened June 11 and concludes July 19, the New Orleans antique and jewelry dealer M.S. Rau is showcasing a diamond and gold soccer ball fit for champions. Crafted in more than 523 grams of 18k white gold and covered with 507.5 cts. t.w. black and white natural diamonds in a traditional pentagonal pattern, the precious object measures 5.5 inches in diameter, or about the size of a medium cantaloupe.
“I expect the soccer ball will appeal to collectors who appreciate exceptional jewelry but also have a strong affinity for sports and conversation-worthy objects,” third-generation owner Bill Rau says.