The Most Expensive Diamonds Ever Purchased — and Who Owns Them
Written by
Jamie Stone
Edited by
Amber Barkley
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Diamonds have long been a symbol of wealth, power and prestige. Some of the most exquisite diamonds in history have fetched record-breaking prices at auction, often ending up in the hands of royals, collectors and celebrities.
Here’s a look at the most expensive diamonds ever purchased and their current owners. Also, check out the most expensive pieces of jewelry.
The Graff Pink ($46.2 Million)
The Graff Pink, a 24.78-carat fancy intense pink diamond, was purchased for $46.2 million by renowned jeweler Laurence Graff in 2010.
Previously owned by Harry Winston, this mesmerizing diamond is known for its exceptional color and clarity.
The Blue Moon of Josephine ($48.4 Million)
Purchased in 2015 for $48.4 million, the Blue Moon of Josephine is a 12.03-carat fancy vivid blue diamond.
The buyer, billionaire Joseph Lau, named the gem after his daughter, Josephine. Its rarity and flawless clarity make it one of the most exceptional diamonds ever discovered.
The Oppenheimer Blue ($57.5 Million)
Weighing in at 14.62 carats, the Oppenheimer Blue is the largest vivid blue diamond ever sold at auction. It was purchased for $57.5 million at a Christie’s auction in 2016 by an anonymous buyer.
This rare gem was named after its previous owner, Sir Philip Oppenheimer, a member of the family that controlled De Beers.
The Regent Diamond (Estimated $60 Million)
The Regent Diamond has a rich history dating back to the early 18th century. This 140.64-carat diamond was once part of the French Crown Jewels and has adorned figures like Louis XV and Napoleon Bonaparte.
Today, it resides at the Louvre Museum in Paris, making it one of the most famous diamonds on public display.
The Pink Star ($71.2 Million)
The Pink Star is a stunning 59.60-carat pink diamond that holds the record for the most expensive diamond ever sold at auction. It was purchased for $71.2 million in 2017 by Hong Kong-based jewelry retailer Chow Tai Fook.
This internally flawless diamond remains one of the most coveted gems in the world.
The Hope Diamond (Estimated $350 Million)
One of the most famous diamonds in history, the Hope Diamond weighs 45.52 carats and is renowned for its deep blue color. Estimated to be worth around $250 million, it currently resides at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
The diamond is also plagued by myths of a curse, adding to its allure and mystique.
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