Diamonds, Pearls, and Plenty of Sparkle
When it comes to luxury, nothing quite says extravagance like a stunning piece of jewellery. Some of the most expensive items in the world are pieces of jewellery that combine rare gemstones, precious metals, and exceptional craftsmanship. From dazzling diamond necklaces to opulent rings, these jewels have fetched jaw-dropping prices at auctions and captivated the attention of collectors worldwide. Let's take a tour through the glittering world of the most expensive jewellery and explore what makes these pieces so extraordinary.
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**The Hope Diamond**
The Hope Diamond is perhaps the most famous diamond in the world. Weighing an impressive 45.52 carats, this rare blue diamond has a mysterious history and has been owned by royalty, socialites, and collectors.
It is currently on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. Its estimated value is around $250 million, making it one of the most expensive gems on the planet.
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**The Pink Star**
The Pink Star is another record-breaking diamond. This vivid pink gem weighs a staggering 59.60 carats and was sold for a record $71.2 million at a Sotheby's auction in Hong Kong.
The stone's unique colour and size make it one of the most valuable diamonds ever discovered.
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**The Graff Pink**
The Graff Pink is a rare 24.78-carat fancy intense pink diamond that was once owned by Harry Winston.
Laurence Graff, the renowned jeweller, purchased the diamond at an auction for $46 million and named it the Graff Pink. Its exceptional colour and clarity make it a treasure among collectors.
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**The Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond**
Originally part of the Bavarian crown jewels, the Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond is a deep blue 31.06-carat stone.
In 2008, Laurence Graff purchased the diamond for $23.4 million and later made some controversial alterations to enhance its clarity and brilliance.
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**L'Incomparable Diamond Necklace**
L'Incomparable Diamond Necklace is a masterpiece created by the jeweller Mouawad.
It features the world's largest internally flawless diamond, a 407.48-carat yellow diamond, alongside white diamonds and rose gold. This extravagant necklace was valued at a cool $55 million.
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**The Blue Moon of Josephine**
The Blue Moon of Josephine is a stunning blue diamond weighing 12.03 carats. In 2015, Hong Kong billionaire Joseph Lau purchased the diamond for his daughter, Josephine, at a Sotheby's auction for $48.4 million.
The vivid blue hue and the diamond's impeccable quality contribute to its high value.
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**Pearls, Sapphires, and More**
While diamonds often steal the spotlight, other gemstones such as pearls, sapphires, and emeralds can also command high prices. For example, La Peregrina, a famous pearl necklace, was sold for $11.8 million in 2011.
Sapphires and emeralds, like the Rockefeller Emerald, can also fetch millions due to their rarity and quality.
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**The Art of Craftsmanship**
Beyond the value of the stones themselves, the craftsmanship that goes into creating these pieces plays a significant role in their worth. Master jewellers spend countless hours designing and crafting each piece, ensuring that every detail is perfect.
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The world of high-end jewellery is a realm of unmatched luxury and artistry. These precious pieces not only captivate the imagination but also serve as a testament to the incredible skill and dedication of the artisans who create them. Whether you dream of owning one of these remarkable pieces or simply enjoy learning about them, the world of expensive jewellery is a treasure trove of wonder and beauty.