The Most Expensive Diamonds Ever Sold at Auction
Diamonds have captivated mankind for centuries, symbolizing wealth, power, and eternal beauty. Among these rare gems, some stand out as exceptional due to their size, color, and historical significance. These diamonds have become the crown jewels of prestigious auction houses, fetching astronomical prices that leave the world in awe.
From the Pink Star, which sold for a staggering $71.2 million, to the Blue Moon, commanding an astonishing $48.5 million, these gems have shattered previous benchmarks and set new standards for diamond valuations.
With the help of this guide, we delve into the fascinating world of the most expensive diamonds ever sold at auction, exploring their remarkable stories and the incredible sums they commanded.
Most Expensive Diamonds in the World
The Pink Star Diamond
Topping the list is the magnificent Pink Star diamond, a flawless 59.60-carat pink diamond. Mined in Africa in 1999, this oval-cut gem was sold at a Sotheby’s auction in 2017 for a staggering $71.2 million. Its vibrant pink hue, combined with its exceptional size and clarity, makes the Pink Star a truly unparalleled gem.
- Price: $71 million
- Date Sold: April 2017 at Sotheby’s Auction
- Carat Weight: 59.6 carats
- Color: Fancy Vivid Pink
The Oppenheimer Blue Diamond
With its deep blue hue reminiscent of the ocean’s depths, the Oppenheimer Blue holds the title of the most expensive blue diamond ever sold at auction. Weighing 14.62 carats, this rectangular-cut gem fetched an astounding $57.5 million at a Christie’s auction in 2016. The diamond was previously owned by Sir Philip Oppenheimer, one of the world’s most prominent diamond dealers.
- Diamond Price: $57.5 million
- Date Sold: May 2016
- Carat Weight: 14.62 carats
- Color: Fancy Vivid Blue
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The Cullinan Dream Diamond
Named after the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever discovered, the Cullinan Dream is a 24.18-carat fancy intense blue diamond. The stone was part of a larger 122.52-carat rough diamond and was later transformed into a pear-shaped gem. It was sold at a Christie’s auction in 2016 for an impressive $25.4 million, solidifying its place among the most expensive diamonds ever sold.
- Price: $25.4 million
- Date Sold: June 2016
- Carat Weight: 24.18 carats
- Color: Fancy Intense Blue
The Blue Moon Diamond
Unveiled to the world in 2014, the Blue Moon diamond, also known as “The Blue Moon of Josephine,” is a flawless 12.03-carat vivid blue diamond. The gem took center stage at a Sotheby’s auction, fetching a remarkable $48.5 million. Its alluring color and unparalleled clarity make it one of the most sought-after diamonds in the world.
- Price: $48.5 million
- Date Sold: November 2015
- Carat Weight: 12.03 carats
- Color: Fancy Vivid Blue
The Graff Pink Diamond
Renowned for its unrivaled beauty, the Graff Pink is a 24.78-carat fancy intense pink diamond that captivates with its vibrant hue. Originally owned by Harry Winston, Graff Pink Diamond achieved a record-breaking price of $46.2 million at a Sotheby’s auction in 2010. The gem was subsequently recut and improved by Laurence Graff, a prominent jeweler, adding to its allure.
- Price: $46 million
- Date Sold: November 2010
- Carat Weight: 24.78 carats
- Color: Fancy Intense Pink
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The Princie Diamond
The Princie Diamond is a stunning cushion-cut pink diamond, originally mined from the famous Golconda mines in India. Named after the teenage son of the Maharaja of Baroda, the Princie Diamond has an enchanting history that dates back several centuries. At a Sotheby’s auction in 2013, this exceptional gem was sold for a remarkable $39.3 million, making it one of the most expensive diamonds ever sold.
- Price: $39.3 million
- Date Sold: April 2013
- Carat Weight: 34.65 carats
- Color: Fancy Intense Pink
The Orange
Known for its remarkable orange hue, The Orange diamond captivates with its rare and vibrant color. At a Christie’s auction in 2013, The Orange fetched a staggering $35.5 million, setting a new record for the highest price ever paid for an orange diamond. Its vivid color and exceptional size make it a truly remarkable gem.
- Price: $35.5 million
- Date Sold: November 2013
- Carat Weight: 14.82 carats
- Color: Fancy Vivid Orange
The Zoe Diamond
The Zoe Diamond is a mesmerizing blue diamond that emanates elegance and sophistication. This pear-shaped gem, known for its exceptional clarity and intense blue color, stands out as one of the most expensive blue diamonds ever sold at auction. At a Sotheby’s auction in 2014, The Zoe Diamond commanded a price of $32.6 million, reflecting its rarity and the enduring allure of blue diamonds.
- Price: $32.6 million
- Date Sold: November 2014
- Carat Weight: 9.75 carats
- Color: Fancy Vivid Blue
Conclusion
The world of high-stakes auctions has witnessed the remarkable sale of some of the most exquisite and valuable diamonds ever discovered. These diamonds represent the epitome of luxury, rarity, and artistic craftsmanship.
From the Pink Star to the Graff Pink, each diamond tells a unique story of beauty, history, and remarkable value. As the auction houses continue to showcase these incredible treasures, the world eagerly anticipates the unveiling of future diamonds that will captivate and astound collectors and enthusiasts alike.