Hidden deep within the earth, precious gems like diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and jade have captured human fascination for centuries. Despite the risks of mining, these glittering stones continue to be sought after, symbolizing wealth and luxury across cultures and eras.
Historically, jewels have adorned the crowns of royalty and graced the necks of socialites, often passing through generations as priceless heirlooms. Their value soars due to their rarity and the high demand among the elite.
Curious about the world’s most expensive jewelry? What kinds of stones and designs make these pieces so valuable? Let’s explore some of the most extraordinary and costly jewelry ever sold.
#1. THE HOPE DIAMOND — $250 MILLION
The Hope Diamond, a mesmerizing 45.52-carat blue gem, is not only the most expensive jewel in the world but also one of the most famous. Its unique blue color, caused by tiny traces of boron, and its eerie red glow in the dark have captivated people for centuries.Legends of curses and bad luck have only added to the diamond’s allure, making it a highly sought-after treasure throughout history. This magnificent gem originated from the Golkonda mines in India and was initially much larger. It first appeared in 1666 when French gem merchant Jean-Baptiste Tavernier purchased it, naming it the Tavernier Blue. King Louis XIV later acquired and renamed it the French Blue.
The diamond’s dramatic history includes a theft during the French Revolution, after which it resurfaced in the 1839 gem collection of the Hope family in London, giving it its current name. The stone changed hands several times, eventually belonging to American socialite Evelyn Walsh McLean, who faced many personal tragedies linked to the diamond’s ominous reputation.In 1949, renowned jeweler Harry Winston bought the Hope Diamond and later donated it to the Smithsonian Institution in 1958. Today, it remains on display at the National Museum of Natural History, continuing to fascinate millions with its beauty and mystery.
#2. PEACOCK BROOCH — $100 MILLION
The Peacock Brooch by Graff Diamonds, valued at an astonishing $100 million, is a breathtaking display of opulence and craftsmanship. Introduced in 2013 at the TEFAF art fair in the Netherlands, this exquisite brooch is shaped like a peacock with its feathers fanned out, showcasing a remarkable array of 1,305 gemstones. The entire piece totals 120.81 carats and features diamonds in a stunning array of colors, including white, yellow, blue, and orange.
At the heart of this magnificent brooch is a rare, pear-shaped dark blue diamond weighing 20.02 carats. This centerpiece, combined with the intricate design and vibrant colors of the surrounding diamonds, makes the Peacock Brooch a true masterpiece.
Graff Diamonds, founded in 1960 by Lawrence Graff, is a prestigious jewelry company based in London, known for adhering to ethical practices such as the Kimberly Process, which ensures their diamonds do not fund conflict or human suffering. The Peacock Brooch is one of many high-value pieces from Graff, including the Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond and the Graff Pink.
Currently, the ownership and whereabouts of the Peacock Brooch remain undisclosed, adding an element of mystery to this already extraordinary piece of jewelry.
#3. WITTELSBACH-GRAFF DIAMOND – $80
MILLIONThe Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond, a 31.06-carat fancy deep blue gem, boasts a rich history and remarkable transformation. Originally discovered in an Indian mine in the 1600s, the diamond first belonged to King Philip IV of Spain and was part of his daughter Margarita Teresa’s dowry when she married Emperor Leopold I of Austria in 1664. For centuries, it adorned the Austrian and Bavarian crown jewels, symbolizing royal prestige and heritage.In 2008, renowned jeweler Laurence Graff acquired the Wittelsbach Diamond for $22 million and sparked controversy by having it recut. The recutting enhanced the diamond’s clarity and brilliance, reducing it from 35.56 carats to its current size. This transformation significantly increased its value, ultimately selling for over $80 million in 2011 to a member of the Qatari royal family.
The Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond’s journey from royal dowry to modern-day masterpiece illustrates its enduring allure and evolving legacy. Now, as one of the most expensive diamonds in the world, it continues to captivate with its deep blue hue and storied past.
#4. PINK STAR — $71.2 MILLION
In April 2017, the Pink Star made headlines when it sold for a staggering $71.2 million at a Sotheby’s auction, setting a record as the most expensive jewel ever sold at auction. This remarkable 59.6-carat diamond was snapped up just five minutes into the bidding by Chow Tai Fook Enterprises, a leading Hong Kong conglomerate.Originally known as the Steinmetz Pink, the Pink Star is the largest ‘internally flawless, fancy vivid pink’ diamond ever graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Mined by De Beers in South Africa in 1999, the diamond initially weighed 132.5 carats before being meticulously cut and polished over 20 months to achieve its current form.
The Pink Star’s journey to fame began when it was displayed as the Steinmetz Pink at the Smithsonian Institution’s “Splendor of Diamonds” exhibit. Its extraordinary size, flawless clarity, and vivid pink hue make it a true marvel of nature and craftsmanship. The sale to Chow Tai Fook Enterprises not only highlights the diamond’s immense value but also cements its status as one of the most coveted gems in the world.
#5. OPPENHEIMER BLUE – $57.5 MILLION
The Oppenheimer Blue, a magnificent 14.62-carat vivid blue diamond, is a true marvel in the world of gemstones. Named after the legendary diamond dealer Philip Oppenheimer, this emerald-cut gem is renowned as the largest Fancy Vivid blue diamond ever graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). In 2016, it fetched an astounding $57.5 million at auction, though the buyer’s identity remains undisclosed.The origins of the Oppenheimer Blue are somewhat enigmatic. It is believed to have been mined in South Africa, likely in the early 20th century, but precise details are scarce, partly due to De Beers’ policy of keeping their archives private. Despite this mystery, the diamond’s connection to the Oppenheimer family, who have been influential in the diamond industry for over a century, adds to its allure.
Sir Philip Oppenheimer, a key figure in the diamond trade, acquired this extraordinary stone, possibly as a gift for his wife. The exact circumstances of this acquisition, including the purchase price, are unknown. Sir Philip passed away in 1995, and the first known sale of the diamond occurred in 1999, when it slightly weighed more at 14.71 carats. Despite its shadowy history, the Oppenheimer Blue’s breathtaking beauty and significant value continue to captivate and intrigue.