Do you have a passion for jewelry? You’re in good company! Throughout history, the allure of jewels has captivated countless individuals. Despite the risky nature of mining deep underground for precious gems like diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, these stones have become symbols of wealth and luxury. Today, jewels still signify social status and are often given as symbols of love. But some jewels are so exceptional, they belong only in our dreams, with their rich histories, exquisite designs, and stunning sizes. Curious about the priciest jewels ever? Let’s dive in!
Hope Diamond – $250 Million
The Hope Diamond, famed for its deep blue color, has a legacy dating back to the 17th century. Initially a 112-carat stone, it has been cut down to 45.42 carats by skilled artisans. This jewel has graced the collections of French kings and was last owned by jeweler Harry Winston, who donated it to the Smithsonian Museum. It’s celebrated not only for its size and color but for its unique glowing luminescence.
Peacock Brooch – $100 Million
Crafted by Graff Diamonds, this brooch, worth $100 million, is no ordinary piece. It features 120.81 carats and 1,305 multi-colored stones, including a standout 20-carat dark-blue diamond. It’s a jewel that could rival the price of a luxury jet, with the central diamond detachable for a simpler look.
Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond – $80 Million
Comparable in quality to the Hope Diamond, this blue diamond dates back to the 1600s. After changing hands multiple times, it was bought and recut by Laurence Graff, enhancing its clarity and worth, despite criticism for altering its historical value. Now called the Wittelsbach-Graff, it fetched over $80 million and belongs to the Qatari royal family.
Pink Star – $72 Million
Discovered by De Beers in 1999, this 59.60-carat diamond boasts a vibrant pink hue. After meticulous cutting, it sold at auction for $72 million to Dr. Henry Cheng, making it one of the most expensive gems sold.
Oppenheimer Blue – $57.5 Million
Previously the priciest jewel auctioned before the Pink Star, the Oppenheimer Blue is a 14.62-carat blue diamond, mined by De Beers and set in a stunning platinum ring.
L’Incomparable – $55 Million
The world’s most expensive necklace features a 407.8-carat total weight, centered by a large yellow diamond, and was crafted by Mouawad. It was discovered by chance in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Blue Moon of Josephine – $48.4 Million
This flawless 12.03-carat blue diamond was bought for a record price by Joseph Lau Luen-Hung, who named it after his daughter, Josephine. It’s a testament to the rarity and beauty of blue diamonds.
Graff Pink – $46.2 Million
This 23.88-carat pink diamond is renowned for its intense color and flawless clarity, making it one of the most prestigious and pricey jewels in the world.
Zoe Diamond – $32.6 Million
A mysterious 9.75-carat blue velvet diamond, once owned by philanthropist Rachel Lambert Mellon. It sold for millions to Joseph Lau, who gifted it to his daughter, Zoe.
Hutton-Mdivani Jadeite Necklace – $27.4 Million
A Cartier creation composed of 27 large jadeite beads, this necklace was a wedding gift for Barbara Hutton. It’s the highest-quality jade and fetched over $27 million at auction.
These jewels are more than just accessories; they are pieces of history, embodying centuries of craftsmanship, luxury, and intrigue. They continue to fascinate jewelry lovers and collectors around the world.
