Lifeline WA had to cancel its Black Diamond Gala Dinner this year due to COVID-19, but the signature jewellery that gives the event its name will still be raffled off to raise funds for the suicide prevention service.

For the first time in the event’s history, the Black Diamond Raffle and Black Diamond Auction will be held entirely online

Rohan Jewellers has donated an exquisite piece to Lifeline WA for the 11th straight year, with the 2020 entry a handcrafted pendant featuring a 4.37 carat kite-shaped black diamond surrounded by a halo of grain set brilliant cut diamonds with rose gold detail in each corner valued at $10,000.

Lifeline WA chief executive officer Lorna MacGregor said she was thankful for the continued support of Rohan Jewellers and other supporters in a year that has been marked by hardship brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

“This has been a tough year for many local businesses and Lifeline WA is grateful for the continued support of Rohan Jewellers and other generous contributors in helping us raise funds towards suicide prevention,” she said.

“This will be the first time we are holding the raffle and auction online, but we hope this means more people are able to be involved and it can be our most successful yet.”

Ms MacGregor said the mental health impacts of COVID-19 would continue long after restrictions eased and it was more important than ever for Lifeline WA to be able to answer as many calls as possible.

“Many people will need extra support to deal with the loneliness and anxiety associated with isolation, particularly those with existing mental health issues,” she said.

“We are committed to being there for more people than ever.”

Black Diamond Raffle tickets are available for $50 each, with ticket sales closing on Wednesday, August 5.

More than 30 other items and experiences donated by local businesses will also be available for online auction, including a painting by Perth artist Aurelio Costarella, a signed Michael Jordan jersey and a two-night stay at Smiths Beach Resort in Margaret River.

Bidding in the Black Diamond Auction closes at midnight on Wednesday, July 22.

Ticket sales and bidding are available at https://www.blackdiamondgaladinner.com/