The world of fine jewelry is a realm where rarity, craftsmanship, and history converge to create pieces of unparalleled value. Throughout history, certain jewels have transcended mere adornment to become symbols of wealth, power, and prestige. These exceptional pieces have fetched astronomical sums at auctions, setting records and captivating the imaginations of collectors and enthusiasts alike.
1. The Pink Star Diamond – $71.2 Million
In 2017, the Pink Star diamond shattered records when it was sold at a Sotheby's auction in Hong Kong for a staggering $71.2 million. Weighing 59.60 carats, this fancy vivid pink diamond is renowned for its flawless clarity and exceptional hue. Mined by De Beers in 1999 in South Africa, it took Steinmetz Diamonds 20 months to cut the Pink Star into its mixed oval brilliant cut. This sale remains the most expensive jewel ever sold at auction.
2. The Oppenheimer Blue Diamond – $57.5 Million
The Oppenheimer Blue, a 14.62-carat fancy vivid blue diamond, fetched $57.5 million at a Christie's auction in Geneva in 2016. Set in a platinum ring and flanked by trapeze-shaped diamonds, this captivating gem was commissioned by De Beers owner Philip Oppenheimer for his wife. Its rich history and stunning color contributed to its record-breaking price.
3. The Memory of Autumn Leaves & Dream of Autumn Leaves – $57.4 Million
In 2017, Sotheby's Geneva auctioned a pair of earrings known as the Memory of Autumn Leaves and Dream of Autumn Leaves for $57.4 million. These earrings feature a blue and pink pair of fancy colored pear-cut diamonds, showcasing the allure of colored gemstones in high jewelry. Their unique pairing and exceptional quality made them highly coveted among collectors.
4. The Blue Moon Diamond – $48.4 Million
The Blue Moon diamond, a 12.03-carat fancy vivid blue diamond, was sold at a Sotheby's auction in Geneva in 2015 for $48.4 million. This sale set the highest-ever price per carat for a diamond, making it the most expensive jewel sold at auction per carat. The diamond's rarity and exceptional color contributed to its record-breaking price.
5. The Estrela de Fura – $34.8 Million
In 2023, the Estrela de Fura, a 55.22-carat Mozambican ruby, was sold at a Sotheby's auction in New York for $34.8 million. This ruby is renowned for its deep red color, often referred to as "pigeon-blood" red, which is considered the highest compliment for ruby coloring. Its size and exceptional quality made it the most expensive colored jewel sold at auction.
6. The Pink Legacy – $50.7 Million
The Pink Legacy, an 18.96-carat fancy vivid pink diamond, was sold at a Christie's auction in Geneva in 2018 for $50.7 million. This remarkable pink diamond was once owned by the Oppenheimer family, famous for their historical connection to diamonds as runners of De Beers. Its stunning hue and perfect clarity contributed to its record-breaking price.
7. The Princie Diamond – $39.3 Million
The Princie Diamond, a 34.65-carat fancy intense pink diamond, was sold at a Christie's auction in New York in 2013 for $39.3 million. This diamond's noble lineage dates back to the Nizams of Hyderabad, adding to its allure and value. Its exceptional quality and rich history made it a highly sought-after piece among collectors.
8. Queen Marie Antoinette’s Pearl Pendant – $36.2 Million
In 2018, Queen Marie Antoinette’s pearl and diamond pendant was sold at a Sotheby's auction in Geneva for $36.2 million. This large natural pearl and diamond pendant once belonged to the ill-fated French queen, adding a layer of historical significance to its value. Its unique design and royal provenance made it a highly coveted piece among collectors.
9. The Graff Pink Diamond – $46.2 Million
The Graff Pink Diamond, a 24.78-carat fancy intense pink diamond, was sold in 2010 for $46.2 million. Renowned for its perfect cut and exceptional clarity, this diamond was acquired by jeweler Laurence Graff. Its rarity and captivating color contributed to its status as one of the most expensive jewels ever sold.
10. Cartier’s Hutton-Mdivani Jadeite Necklace – $27.4 Million
In 2014, Cartier’s Hutton-Mdivani jadeite, ruby, and diamond necklace was sold at a Sotheby's auction in Hong Kong for $27.4 million. Designed in the 1930s for American philanthropist and heiress Barbara Hutton, this necklace later became part of the private collection of the Mdivanis, the Georgian royal family. Its exquisite design and royal provenance made it a highly sought-after piece among collectors.