Jewelry has long been a symbol of wealth, power, and status. Throughout history, certain pieces have transcended mere adornment to become legendary treasures. These exceptional items are not only valued for their intrinsic beauty but also for their rarity, craftsmanship, and the stories they carry.
1. The Hope Diamond – $200–250 Million
Weighing 45.52 carats, the Hope Diamond is renowned for its deep blue hue and storied past. Believed to have originated from the Golconda mines in India, it has passed through the hands of various royal families and was eventually donated to the Smithsonian Institution in 1958. Its captivating color is attributed to trace amounts of boron, and it is famed for its supposed curse, adding to its mystique.
2. Peacock Brooch by Graff Diamonds – $100 Million
Unveiled in 2013, this exquisite brooch features 1,305 diamonds totaling 120.81 carats. The centerpiece is a 20.02-carat blue pear-shaped diamond, surrounded by a vibrant array of colored stones. Crafted by Graff Diamonds, a London-based jeweler, this piece is a testament to exceptional artistry and design.
3. Pink Star Diamond – $71.2 Million
At 59.60 carats, the Pink Star is the largest internally flawless fancy vivid pink diamond ever graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Mined in South Africa in 1999, it was sold at a Sotheby's auction in Hong Kong in 2017. Its intense pink color and flawless clarity make it one of the most coveted diamonds in the world.
4. Oppenheimer Blue – $57.5 Million
This 14.62-carat emerald-cut blue diamond was named after Sir Philip Oppenheimer, a prominent figure in the diamond industry. It set a record for the most expensive blue diamond ever sold at auction when it was sold at Christie's in 2016. Its vivid blue hue and historical significance contribute to its extraordinary value.
5. L’Incomparable Diamond Necklace – $55 Million
Featuring a 407.48-carat necklace adorned with diamonds, the centerpiece is the largest internally flawless yellow diamond known, resembling the size of an egg. Crafted by Mouawad, a luxury goods company, this necklace is the most valuable necklace in the world.
6. Blue Moon of Josephine – $48.4 Million
This 12.03-carat cushion-shaped blue diamond was sold at a Sotheby's auction in Geneva in 2015. Purchased by Hong Kong billionaire Joseph Lau for his daughter, Josephine, it set a record for the highest price per carat for any diamond. Its flawless clarity and vivid blue color make it a remarkable piece.
7. Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond – $80 Million
A 31.06-carat blue diamond with a rich history, the Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond was originally part of the Wittelsbach family collection in Bavaria. It was sold at auction in 2011 and later recut to enhance its brilliance. Its historical provenance and stunning appearance contribute to its high value.
8. The Red Emperor Necklace – $33 Million
This necklace features a 10.05-carat Burmese ruby surrounded by diamonds. The ruby is considered one of the finest examples of its kind, with a deep red color and exceptional clarity. Its rarity and the quality of the gemstones make it a highly valuable piece.
9. The Imperial Green Necklace – $27 Million
Featuring a 5.04-carat jadeite bead surrounded by diamonds, this necklace is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Jadeite, particularly in its imperial green variety, is one of the rarest and most valuable gemstones. This piece showcases the beauty and rarity of jadeite, making it a prized possession.
10. The Blue Belle of Asia – $17.3 Million
This 392.52-carat blue sapphire, set in a necklace with diamonds, was sold at a Sotheby's auction in 2014. Its size and exceptional color make it one of the largest and most valuable sapphires ever sold. The Blue Belle of Asia is a testament to the allure of colored gemstones.