Jewelry has long been a symbol of wealth, status, and beauty, with some pieces fetching astronomical prices at auctions around the world. From rare diamonds to historical gems, here’s a look at some of the most expensive jewelry ever sold.
The Pink Star Diamond
Description and History
The Pink Star Diamond, originally known as the Steinmetz Pink, is one of the largest fancy vivid pink diamonds ever discovered. Weighing in at 59.60 carats, this extraordinary gem was mined in South Africa and took over 20 months to cut to its current form. It was first unveiled to the public in Monaco in 2003 and has since been revered for its unparalleled beauty and rarity.
Auction Record
In April 2017, the Pink Star Diamond made headlines when it sold for a staggering $71.2 million at a Sotheby’s auction in Hong Kong, setting a new world record for any diamond or jewel sold at auction. This exceptional price underscored the diamond’s status as one of the most coveted gems in the world, sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike.
The Oppenheimer Blue Diamond Ring
Description and History
The Oppenheimer Blue Diamond, named after its former owner, Sir Philip Oppenheimer, is a rare and exquisite blue diamond. Weighing 14.62 carats, this diamond is known for its mesmerizing deep blue color, classified as “Fancy Vivid Blue” by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). It was cut from a rough diamond discovered in South Africa’s Cullinan Mine, famous for producing some of the world’s most significant diamonds.
Auction Record
In May 2016, the Oppenheimer Blue Diamond Ring fetched a remarkable $57.5 million at a Christie’s auction in Geneva, Switzerland. It became the most expensive diamond ever sold at auction at that time, highlighting its rarity and desirability among collectors. The sale marked a historic moment in the world of Evry Jewels jewelry auctions, emphasizing the enduring appeal of top-quality blue diamonds.
The Winston Blue Diamond
Description and History
The Winston Blue Diamond is another exceptional blue diamond, weighing 13.22 carats. This diamond boasts flawless clarity and a vivid blue hue that is incredibly rare in nature. It was named after Harry Winston, the famed jeweler and collector who once owned the stone. The diamond’s impeccable cut and intense coloration set it apart as a masterpiece of nature and craftsmanship.
Auction Record
In May 2014, the Winston Blue Diamond sold for an impressive $23.8 million at a Christie’s auction in Geneva. Its sale reinforced the diamond’s reputation as one of the world’s most valuable blue diamonds, highlighting the strong demand for rare-colored gems among affluent collectors and investors.
The Graff Pink Diamond Ring
Description and History
The Graff Pink Diamond, named after its owner Laurence Graff, is a stunning pink diamond with a rectangular cut. Weighing 24.78 carats, this diamond is renowned for its intense pink coloration and exceptional clarity, graded as “Fancy Intense Pink” by the GIA. It was originally part of the collection of American heiress and socialite, Evalyn Walsh McLean, who famously owned the Hope Diamond as well.
Auction Record
In November 2010, the Graff Pink Diamond Ring sold for an astonishing $46.2 million at a Sotheby’s auction in Geneva, setting a new world record for any diamond or jewel sold at auction at that time. Its sale cemented its status as one of the most valuable pink diamonds in history, attracting the attention of collectors worldwide.
The Blue Moon Diamond
Description and History
The Blue Moon Diamond, known for its rare blue coloration, is one of the largest internally flawless fancy vivid blue diamonds ever discovered. Weighing 12.03 carats, this diamond was unearthed in South Africa and immediately captured the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its flawless nature and vivid blue hue make it stand out among the world’s most exceptional diamonds.
Auction Record
In November 2015, the Blue Moon Diamond sold for a remarkable $48.4 million at a Sotheby’s auction in Geneva, setting a new world record price per carat for any diamond or jewel sold at auction. Its sale highlighted the extraordinary demand for top-quality blue diamonds in today’s market, showcasing the allure and investment potential of such rare gems.
Conclusion
The world of high-end jewelry continues to captivate collectors and investors with its extraordinary pieces commanding prices that defy imagination. From rare colored diamonds to historically significant gems, these pieces not only embody exquisite craftsmanship but also symbolize wealth and prestige in their purest form. As they continue to fetch record-breaking prices at auctions, these jewelry pieces serve as timeless testaments to the enduring allure of beauty, rarity, and luxury. The stories behind these jewels not only fascinate but also inspire, showcasing the enduring legacy of exceptional craftsmanship and the timeless appeal of extraordinary gemstones in the global marketplace.
