The world of fine jewelry is a realm where rarity, craftsmanship, and history converge to create pieces of unparalleled value. Among the myriad of exquisite jewels, certain items have transcended mere adornment to become symbols of opulence and legacy. These masterpieces have fetched staggering sums at auctions, setting records that underscore their exceptional nature.
1. The Pink Star Diamond: A Record-Breaking Marvel
In April 2017, the Pink Star diamond achieved a historic milestone by becoming the most expensive jewel ever sold at auction. Weighing 59.6 carats, this flawless fancy vivid pink diamond was sold at Sotheby's in Hong Kong for a staggering $71.2 million. Its unparalleled size and color contributed to its record-setting price, making it a coveted treasure among collectors and connoisseurs.
2. The Oppenheimer Blue: A Legacy of Royalty
The Oppenheimer Blue diamond, weighing 14.62 carats, was named after Sir Philip Oppenheimer, a prominent figure in the diamond industry. In May 2016, this exquisite stone was sold at Christie's in Geneva for $57.5 million, setting a record for the most expensive jewel ever sold at auction at that time. Its deep blue hue and historical significance added to its allure, attracting intense bidding from around the globe.
3. The Graff Pink: A Jewel of Exceptional Quality
In 2010, the Graff Pink diamond made headlines when it was sold for $46.2 million at a Sotheby's auction in Geneva. Weighing 24.78 carats, this fancy intense pink diamond was renowned for its perfect cut and exceptional clarity. Acquired by jeweler Laurence Graff, it reflected the rare and captivating nature of colored diamonds, making it one of the most expensive gems ever sold.
4. The Blue Belle of Asia: A Majestic Sapphire
The Blue Belle of Asia, a 392.52-carat Ceylon sapphire, was sold at Christie's in New York for $17.3 million in June 2014. Its remarkable size and vivid blue color made it one of the largest and most valuable sapphires ever to appear at auction. The sale highlighted the growing appreciation for colored gemstones among collectors and investors.
5. The Hutton-Mdivani Jadeite Necklace: A Historical Treasure
Cartier's Hutton-Mdivani jadeite necklace, designed in the 1930s, was sold at Sotheby's in Hong Kong for $27.4 million in 2014. This exquisite piece, featuring jadeite beads and diamonds, was originally owned by American heiress Barbara Hutton and later became part of the Mdivani collection. Its rich history and exceptional craftsmanship contributed to its high value.
6. The Hope Diamond: A Legendary Gem
The Hope Diamond, weighing 45.52 carats, is one of the most famous diamonds in the world. Although it has never been sold at auction, its estimated value ranges between $200 million and $350 million. Its deep blue color and storied history, including legends of a curse, have captivated the public's imagination for centuries.
7. The Cullinan Diamond: A Royal Legacy
The Cullinan diamond, discovered in South Africa in 1905, was the largest gem-quality diamond ever found, weighing 3,106 carats. It was cut into several stones, the largest of which, the Great Star of Africa, is set in the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. While the Cullinan diamonds have never been sold, their historical significance and association with the British royal family add to their immense value.
8. The Blue Royal: A Modern Marvel
In November 2023, the Blue Royal diamond, a 17.61-carat fancy vivid blue pear-shaped diamond, was sold at Christie's in Geneva for over $44 million. This sale marked it as the most expensive jewel sold at auction that year. Its exceptional color and rarity attracted intense bidding, highlighting the continued demand for extraordinary gemstones.
9. The Estrela de Fura: A Rare Ruby
The Estrela de Fura, a 55.22-carat Mozambican ruby, was sold at Sotheby's in New York for $34.8 million in 2023. Its deep red color, known as "pigeon-blood" red, and its status as the largest gem-quality ruby ever sold at auction contributed to its record-breaking price.
10. The Marie-Thérèse Pink Diamond: A Royal Connection
The Marie-Thérèse Pink diamond, a 10.38-carat fancy purple-pink diamond, was sold at Christie's in New York for $14 million in June 2025. This sale set a new world auction record for a JAR jewel. Its unique color and historical provenance, linked to the French royal family, added to its allure and high value.