Jewelry has long been a symbol of wealth, power, and status. Throughout history, certain pieces have transcended mere adornment to become legendary artifacts of immense value. From rare diamonds to historical heirlooms, these jewels have captivated collectors and investors alike.
1. The Pink Star Diamond – $71.2 Million
The Pink Star Diamond holds the record for the most expensive jewel ever sold at auction. Weighing 59.60 carats, this flawless fancy vivid pink diamond was mined by De Beers in 1999 in South Africa. It took Steinmetz Diamonds 20 months to cut the diamond into its mixed oval brilliant shape. In 2017, it was sold for a staggering $71.2 million at a Sotheby’s auction in Hong Kong.
2. The Oppenheimer Blue – $57.5 Million
Named after the Oppenheimer family, former owners of De Beers, this 14.62-carat fancy vivid blue diamond was sold at Christie’s Geneva in 2016 for $57.5 million. Set in a platinum ring, it is flanked by trapeze-shaped diamonds, adding to its allure.
3. The Blue Moon Diamond – $48.4 Million
The Blue Moon Diamond is a 12.03-carat fancy vivid blue diamond that was sold at Sotheby’s Geneva in 2015 for $48.4 million. It is the largest cushion-cut blue diamond ever to appear at auction and holds the record for the highest price per carat for any diamond sold at auction.
4. The Estrela de Fura Ruby – $34.8 Million
This 55.22-carat Mozambique ruby is the largest gem-quality ruby ever sold at auction. Dubbed "pigeon-blood red" for its exceptional color, it was sold at Sotheby’s New York in 2023 for $34.8 million, setting a new record for the most expensive colored jewel ever sold at auction.
5. The Graff Pink Diamond – $46.2 Million
The Graff Pink Diamond is a 24.78-carat fancy intense pink diamond that was sold for $46.2 million in 2010. Acquired by jeweler Laurence Graff, it is renowned for its perfect cut and exceptional clarity, making it one of the most expensive gems ever sold.
6. The Princie Diamond – $39.3 Million
This 34.65-carat fancy intense pink diamond was sold at Christie’s New York in 2013 for $39.3 million. Its noble lineage dates back to the Nizams of Hyderabad, adding to its historical significance.
7. Queen Marie Antoinette’s Pearl Pendant – $36.2 Million
This large natural pearl and diamond pendant belonged to Queen Marie Antoinette and was sold at Sotheby’s Geneva in 2018 for $36.2 million. Its rich history and royal provenance contributed to its high value.
8. The Orange Diamond – $35.5 Million
The Orange Diamond is a 14.82-carat fancy vivid orange diamond that was sold at Christie’s Geneva in 2013 for $35.5 million. Its rare color and exceptional quality made it a highly sought-after piece among collectors.
9. The Hutton-Mdivani Jadeite Necklace – $27.4 Million
Designed by Cartier in the 1930s for American philanthropist and heiress Barbara Hutton, this jadeite, ruby, and diamond necklace was sold at a Sotheby’s auction in 2014 for $27.4 million. Its unique design and historical significance contributed to its high auction price.
10. The Hope Diamond – Estimated at $250 Million
The Hope Diamond is a 45.52-carat fancy dark grayish-blue diamond that is estimated to be worth between $200 million and $250 million. Although it has never been sold at auction, its rich history and legendary status make it one of the most valuable jewels in the world.