Jewels with History: The Most Expensive Pieces Sold at Auctions

Few things capture the imagination as much as jewels with history. These pieces are not only valuable for their materials but also for the stories and characters who have owned them. Over the years, auctions have been the stage where some of the world’s most extraordinary jewels have changed hands, reaching astronomical prices. Here we present some of the most expensive pieces ever sold at auctions, each with a story worthy of a fairy tale.

1. The Pink Star Diamond: A Record in Pink

In 2017, the Pink Star Diamond, an impressive 59.6-carat pink diamond, broke all records at Sotheby’s Hong Kong. Sold for $71.2 million, this oval-shaped diamond is the most expensive ever auctioned. Its extraordinary size and purity, combined with its rare intense pink color, make it a unique piece in the world of gems.

2. La Peregrina Pearl: From Spanish Royalty to Elizabeth Taylor

La Peregrina, one of the most famous pearls in the world, has a history dating back to the 16th century when it was found in the Gulf of Panama. It passed through the hands of Spanish royalty, including Philip II, before being acquired by Richard Burton as a gift for Elizabeth Taylor. In 2011, Taylor’s jewelry collection was auctioned by Christie’s, and La Peregrina sold for $11.8 million, far beyond its initial estimate.

3. The Oppenheimer Blue Diamond: A Unique Blue

In 2016, Christie’s Geneva was the venue for the sale of the Oppenheimer Blue Diamond, a magnificent 14.62-carat blue diamond. This diamond, the largest of its kind ever auctioned, sold for $57.5 million. Its exceptional color and clarity, combined with its provenance from the legendary De Beers, make it a historic jewel.

4. The Hutton-Mdivani Emerald and Diamond Brooch: High Society Glamour

This brooch, which belonged to Woolworth heiress Barbara Hutton and Princess Nina Mdivani, is an iconic piece of 20th-century high society. Sold for $27.44 million at Sotheby’s Hong Kong in 2014, the brooch features Colombian emeralds and diamonds, reflecting unparalleled glamour.

These jewels not only represent material wealth but also tell stories of love, power, and cultural heritage. Each auction that brings one of these exceptional pieces to market reminds us of the deep connection between art, history, and luxury. In a world where authenticity and exclusivity are increasingly valued, historic jewels continue to shine with their own light, attracting collectors and enthusiasts worldwide willing to pay fortunes to be part of their legacy.