CLEVELAND (AP).- A huge yellow diamond known as the "Golden Eye" and seized in an Ohio money laundering investigation has been auctioned off for $2.8 million.

The winning bidder wasn't immediately disclosed. The U.S. Marshals Service says the winning bid must be checked out.

The 43.51-carat diamond belonged to a northeastern Ohio businessman who was convicted of money laundering and conspiracy. Prosecutors say he tried to sell the rock and an estate once owned by boxer Mike Tyson to an undercover FBI agent for $19.5 million and a boat.

 

The diamond was forfeited to the government.

 

The online bidding began Tuesday and there were just four bids until Thursday. Most of the 16 bids came in the final minutes Thursday and during a 15-minute overtime period.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.