Jewelry has long been a symbol of wealth, status, and timeless beauty. Throughout history, certain pieces have transcended mere adornment to become legendary treasures, commanding prices that reflect their rarity, craftsmanship, and the stories they carry. In this article, we delve into some of the most expensive jewelry ever sold, offering a glimpse into the opulent world of high-end adornments.
1. The Pink Star Diamond – $71.2 Million
The Pink Star, a 59.60-carat fancy vivid pink diamond, holds the record for the most expensive jewel ever sold at auction. Sold by Sotheby’s in Hong Kong in 2017, it fetched an astounding $71.2 million. Mined by De Beers in 1999, the diamond's flawless clarity and exceptional hue make it one of the most coveted diamonds in the world. Its mixed oval brilliant cut was achieved after 20 months of meticulous craftsmanship by Steinmetz Diamonds.
2. The Oppenheimer Blue – $57.5 Million
The Oppenheimer Blue, a 14.62-carat blue diamond, was sold at Christie’s Geneva in 2016 for $57.5 million. Commissioned by De Beers owner Philip Oppenheimer for his wife, this captivating diamond's history is largely a mystery, other than the fact that it was mined in South Africa, likely sometime in the early 20th century. Its deep blue hue and flawless clarity contributed to its record-breaking price.
3. The Blue Moon Diamond – $48.4 Million
In 2015, the Blue Moon Diamond, a 12.03-carat fancy vivid blue diamond, was sold at Sotheby’s in Geneva for $48.4 million. This sale set a record for the highest price per carat ever achieved at auction, making it the most expensive jewel sold at auction per carat. The diamond's rarity and exceptional color contributed to its remarkable value.
4. The Graff Pink Diamond – $46.2 Million
The Graff Pink Diamond, a 24.78-carat fancy intense pink diamond, was sold for $46.2 million in 2010. Acquired by jeweler Laurence Graff, this diamond is renowned for its perfect cut and exceptional clarity. Its acquisition by one of the world's most renowned jewelers further cemented its status as one of the most expensive jewels ever sold.
5. The Hutton-Mdivani Jadeite Necklace – $27.4 Million
Cartier’s Hutton-Mdivani Jadeite Necklace, featuring 27 jadeite beads and diamonds, was sold for $27.4 million at Sotheby’s in 2014. Once owned by socialite Barbara Hutton, this necklace is considered one of the most important pieces of jadeite jewelry in existence. Its historical significance and exceptional quality contributed to its high auction price.
6. The Princie Diamond – $39.3 Million
The Princie Diamond, a 34.65-carat fancy intense pink diamond, was sold at Christie’s New York in 2013 for $39.3 million. Once part of the Nizam of Hyderabad's collection, this diamond's rich history and exceptional color contributed to its impressive sale price.
7. The Blue Royal Diamond – Over $44 Million
In 2023, the Bleu Royal, a 17.61-carat pear-shaped fancy vivid blue diamond, was sold at Christie's Geneva for over $44 million. This sale surpassed its pre-sale estimate of $35 million, making it the most expensive jewel sold at auction that year. Its deep blue hue and exceptional clarity contributed to its record-breaking price.
8. The Golden Canary Diamond – $12.4 Million
The Golden Canary, a 100.23-carat fancy intense yellow diamond, was sold for $12.4 million at Sotheby’s in 2022. Its exceptional size and vibrant color made it one of the most significant yellow diamonds ever to appear at auction.
9. The Memory of Autumn Leaves & Dream of Autumn Leaves – $57.4 Million
These two pear-shaped diamonds, one blue and one pink, were sold together at Sotheby’s Geneva in 2017 for $57.4 million. Their complementary colors and exceptional quality made them a unique and valuable pair, contributing to their impressive sale price.
10. The Hutton-Mdivani Jadeite Necklace – $27.4 Million
This necklace, featuring 27 jadeite beads and diamonds, was sold for $27.4 million at Sotheby’s in 2014. Once owned by socialite Barbara Hutton, this necklace is considered one of the most important pieces of jadeite jewelry in existence. Its historical significance and exceptional quality contributed to its high auction price.