Top 10 Most Expensive Diamonds in the World: A Comprehensive List

Demonstrating their immense worth, the top 10 most expensive diamonds in the world stand as a striking testament to their value. Revered for their beauty, rarity, and wealth storage or transfer capabilities, diamonds are highly prized gemstones globally. Competition in the diamond market is intense, with prices varying widely based on factors like color, clarity, cut quality, and carat weight. Notable diamonds such as the rumored-to-be-cursed Hope Diamond and the nine separate stones of the Cullinan Diamond have captured the attention of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Understanding the factors that contribute to diamond value enhances appreciation for their exceptional significance.

Key Takeaways

• The rarity, beauty, and wealth storage or transfer ability of the world’s most expensive diamonds make them highly sought after.
• Diamond prices and market dynamics can vary significantly due to factors like color, clarity, cut style, and carat weight.
• The top 10 most expensive diamonds globally include the Hope Diamond, Cullinan Diamond, Centenary Diamond, Pink Star Diamond, Moussaieff Red Diamond, Heart of Eternity Diamond, Blue Moon Diamond, Graff Pink Diamond, and Koh-I-Noor Diamond.

Understanding Diamond Value

Diamonds, valued as some of the world’s most precious gemstones, derive their worth from four criteria: carat weight, cut, clarity, and color.

Carat weight in diamonds signifies both size and weight; with one carat equivalent to 0.2 grams, larger diamonds have higher carat weights. Nevertheless, a diamond’s value isn’t solely based on carat weight, as factors like cut, clarity, and color also significantly impact its price.

The cut of a diamond pertains to its proportions, symmetry, and polish. A well-cut diamond enhances light reflection, increasing its brilliance and sparkle. Furthermore, the cut influences the diamond’s shape, such as round, princess, emerald, and more.

Clarity in diamonds relates to the presence and size of inclusions or blemishes within the stone. Inclusions are internal flaws, while blemishes are external imperfections. Diamonds with fewer inclusions and blemishes possess higher clarity grades and values.

Diamond color describes its hue, saturation, and tone, with colorless diamonds being most valuable; the grading scale ranges from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The closer a diamond is to colorless, the higher its value.

In essence, the combination of the 4Cs determines a diamond’s value. A top-tier diamond boasting superb cut, high clarity, and colorless hue can command millions of dollars, as evidenced by the world’s priciest diamonds.

Top 10 Most Expensive Diamonds in the World

Presented here is a list of the Top 10 most expensive diamonds globally, along with their respective values:

1. The Koh-I-Noor Diamond – Priceless
2. The Hope Diamond – $250 million
3. The Cullinan Diamond – $200 million
4. The Centenary Diamond – $100 million
5. The Pink Star Diamond – $71.2 million
6. The Regent Diamond – $62 million
7. The Blue Moon Diamond – $50 million
8. The Graff Pink Diamond – $46 million
9. The Moussaieff Red Diamond – $20 million
10. The Heart of Eternity Diamond – $16 million

Let’s delve into the history and value of each of these remarkable diamonds.

A rare and exquisite blue diamond weighing 27.64 carats, the Heart of Eternity Diamond ranks among the world’s most expensive diamonds, valued at $16 million or higher. Crafted by the Steinmetz Group and acquired by the De Beers Group, this diamond was unveiled in 2000.

History

Derived from the same 777-carat rough stone as the 203.4 carat Millennium Star, the Heart of Eternity Diamond originated from South Africa’s Premier Mine, renowned for producing exceptionally valuable diamonds. Named for its unique heart shape and captivating blue hue, the diamond made its public debut in 2000 as part of the De Beers Millennium Collection, featuring 12 rare and distinctive diamonds.

As one of the collection’s standout pieces, the Heart of Eternity Diamond symbolizes luxury and opulence, resonating as a prestigious emblem of wealth.

Value

Valued at over $16 million, the Heart of Eternity Diamond is esteemed as one of the world’s most expensive diamonds. Its worth is influenced by various factors, including size, color, and clarity. Boasting a Fancy Vivid Blue color grade, the diamond’s blue hue stands as the pinnacle color grade for blue diamonds.

Distinguished by its rare beauty and scarcity, the Heart of Eternity Diamond is a highly coveted jewel sought after by discerning collectors and investors, serving as a prized asset in any exclusive collection.

History

The Moussaieff Red Diamond, also known as the Red Shield Diamond, is a notable 5.11-carat triangular brilliant cut diamond certified as Fancy Red by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). It was discovered in Brazil in the late 1990s before being acquired by Moussaieff Jewellers Ltd in 2001 from the William Goldberg Diamond Corporation.

Although the history of the Moussaieff Red Diamond has been relatively quiet, its exceptional color and size gained international recognition. It was showcased at the Smithsonian Institution in 2003 as part of the “The Splendor of Diamonds” exhibit, alongside renowned diamonds like the Heart of Eternity and Millennium Star.

Value

The Moussaieff Red Diamond holds a position among the top ten most expensive diamonds globally, with some sources estimating its worth at around $10 million. Its rarity as one of the most exceptional red diamonds and its distinguished size contribute to its significant value.

In 2011, Moussaieff Jewellers Ltd. presented a diamond ring valued at $20 million, featuring the Moussaieff Red Diamond surrounded by pink and white diamonds. This exquisite creation was later named “The Moussaieff Red.”

Overall, the Moussaieff Red Diamond stands as a highly rare and precious gem that continues to attract considerable interest within the jewelry industry.

History

The Graff Pink Diamond, a rare 24.78-carat pink diamond, was previously owned by the renowned American jeweler Harry Winston. This exquisite diamond was unearthed in South Africa as a rough diamond weighing 35.27 carats. It was later transformed into an emerald-cut fancy intense pink diamond by the New York-based diamond cutter, Mr. N. W. Ayer.

Named after its current owner, Laurence Graff, the diamond was acquired for a staggering $46 million at the Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels Sale in Geneva in 2010. Graff meticulously had 25 minor natural flaws corrected in the ring and reduced the carat size from 24.78 carats to 23.88 carats.

Value

The Graff Pink Diamond stands out as one of the most iconic, exquisite, and rare pink diamonds globally. Its exceptional rarity and unique color render it highly valuable and in high demand among collectors and investors.

Reported by Luxe Digital, the value of The Graff Pink Diamond remains at $46.2 million, the same price Graff paid in 2010. The diamond’s worth has remained stable over time and is anticipated to appreciate further due to its rarity and historical significance.

The Graff Pink Diamond undoubtedly represents a natural masterpiece and a testament to the beauty and value of natural diamonds. Its distinct color, rich history, and remarkable value establish it as a true treasure for enthusiasts of exceptional gemstones.

History

The Blue Moon Diamond, a striking 12.03-carat blue diamond, was unearthed in the Cullinan mine, South Africa, in January 2014. Its name, “Blue Moon,” signifies its rarity with the phrase “once in a blue moon.” The rough diamond was expertly cut and polished in a cushion shape by Cora International, a New York-based diamond manufacturer. Notably, the diamond attained the highest clarity grade of Internally Flawless.

At a Sotheby’s auction in Geneva in November 2015, the Blue Moon Diamond was sold for a record-breaking $48.5 million to the Hong Kong-based billionaire, Joseph Lau. Lau renamed the diamond as “Blue Moon of Josephine” in honor of his daughter, marking it as the most expensive diamond per carat ever auctioned at $4.03 million per carat.

Value

The Blue Moon Diamond stands among the world’s most valuable diamonds due to its rareness, size, and captivating blue hue. Blue diamonds, particularly rare, elevate the Blue Moon Diamond as one of the most treasured and valuable blue diamonds to be discovered. Its value is estimated to range from $30 million to $50 million.

The Blue Moon of Josephine is now part of Joseph Lau’s notable collection of exceptional and precious diamonds, which notably includes other diamonds like the 16.08-carat “Sweet Josephine” pink diamond and the 7.03-carat “Star of Josephine” blue diamond.

History

The Regent Diamond, weighing in at 140.64 carats, is one of the largest and most famous diamonds globally. It is named after Thomas Pitt, the British Governor of Madras, who acquired it in 1701. The diamond was later sold to Philippe II, Duke of Orleans, who had it set in the Royal Crown of France.

The Regent Diamond, with its intriguing history, was stolen during the French Revolution, missing for several years, and later recovered. It adorned Napoleon Bonaparte’s sword hilt and the crown of Louis XVIII. Today, this diamond is exhibited at the Louvre Museum in Paris.

Value

The Regent Diamond is estimated to be worth $62 Million due to its size, exceptional clarity, and rich history, making it one of the most valuable gems globally. However, as part of French heritage, it is not available for sale or trade.

In essence, the Regent Diamond is a captivating gemstone that has fascinated people worldwide for centuries, combining size, clarity, history, and allure to become one of the world’s most prized diamonds.

History

Mined from South Africa in 1999, the Pink Star Diamond (or Pink Star) originally belonged to the Steinmetz Group. After two years of cutting and polishing, it was publicly displayed in 2003. Although initially offered at Sotheby’s Geneva for $83 Million, the sale was canceled.

Value

The Pink Star’s worth comes from its rarity and vibrant color as pink diamonds are extremely scarce, with only around a hundred gem-quality pink diamonds produced annually, making it one of the most valuable gems in the world.

In a record-breaking auction at Sotheby’s Hong Kong in 2017, the Pink Star sold for $71.2 million, becoming the priciest diamond ever auctioned. Acquired by jewelry retailer Chow Tai Fook and renamed “CTF Pink Star,” it holds significant value due to its history and provenance.

In summary, the Pink Star Diamond is a remarkable gem that has captured global attention with its rarity, size, vivid hue, and historical significance, making it one of the most sought-after diamonds in the world.

History

Weighing 273.85 carats, the Centenary Diamond, discovered at South Africa’s Premier Mine in 1986, is among the world’s largest diamonds. Alongside it, famous stones like the Cullinan Diamond and Taylor-Burton Diamonds were also found at the same mine.

After a hidden three-year security period post-discovery, the Centenary Diamond was unveiled in 1989 at exhibitions worldwide, remaining displayed at various events globally ever since.

Value

Known for its Type IIa category, exceptional clarity, D color grade (the highest), and flawless clarity, the Centenary Diamond’s estimated value stands at $100 million due to its rarity and quality. It currently belongs to De Beers Group.

In essence, the Centenary Diamond holds exceptional value and a captivating story, becoming one of the world’s renowned diamonds owing to its rarity, beauty, and continuous admiration worldwide.

History

The Cullinan Diamond, the largest gem-grade rough diamond ever found at 3,106 carats, was discovered in South Africa in 1905 and named after Thomas Cullinan, the mine chairman at the time. It was acquired by the Transvaal government.

Presented as an iconic gift to King Edward VII of the United Kingdom.

The Cullinan Diamond, due to its size, had to undergo division into multiple smaller pieces before cutting and polishing. The largest piece, Cullinan I or Great Star of Africa, is a pear-shaped diamond weighing 530.2 carats and is housed in the Royal Sceptre. The second largest piece, Cullinan II or Lesser Star of Africa, weighs 317.4 carats and is set in the Imperial State Crown.

Value

Estimating the value of the Cullinan Diamond is challenging given its historical significance and fragmentation into smaller pieces. Experts suggest it could have been valued at up to $2 billion if it remained intact. The Great Star of Africa alone may command around $400 million, while the Lesser Star of Africa might fetch approximately $200 million.

The Cullinan Diamond continues to be cherished as one of the world’s most esteemed and valuable diamonds, its size and historical relevance solidifying its place as one of nature’s most magnificent wonders, a testament to beauty and rarity.

History

Weighing 45.52 carats, the Hope Diamond, discovered at Kollur Mine in Golconda, India, is among the world’s most renowned diamonds. King Louis XIV claimed it in 1668. During the French Revolution, it was stolen and later found its way back to London, where Henry Philip Hope purchased it, giving the diamond its name.

The Hope Diamond boasts a legendary past, associated with superstitions of bringing misfortune to its owners or holding mystical powers within its facets. Nevertheless, despite these beliefs, notable figures like King George IV of England and Evalyn Walsh McLean, an American socialite, have possessed the diamond over time.

Value

The Hope Diamond stands as one of the world’s most prized gems, estimated to be valued at around $250 million. Its distinct blue color, resulting from boron in its crystal structure, along with its impressive size and flawless clarity, further enhance its allure.

Currently displayed in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C., the diamond remains one of the museum’s most cherished exhibits, attracting millions of visitors annually, despite its substantial value. Numerous individuals come yearly to view this historical gem, potentially never to be put up for sale. Despite the fame and wealth linked to its name, the diamond may never transition to private ownership.

History

The Koh-I-Noor diamond, a 105.6-carat gem considered one of the most famous and invaluable on the planet, derives its name, meaning “Mountain of Light” in Persian. With a history dating back to at least the 13th century, it is believed to have been mined in India’s Golconda region during the Kakatiya dynasty’s reign in the 11th to 12th century.

Passing through numerous hands over the centuries, the diamond was previously owned by several Indian rulers before being acquired by the British East India Company in 1849 after the Second Anglo-Sikh War. It was presented to Queen Victoria in 1850 and has since become part of the British Crown Jewels.

Value

The Koh-I-Noor diamond’s value remains undisclosed, deemed priceless due to its historical and cultural significance. Despite ongoing estimates of its worth, the gem’s true value remains uncertain.

Though the exact value of the Koh-I-Noor diamond remains unknown, it is widely believed to rank among the most expensive diamonds globally, owing to its size, historical background, and cultural importance.

The Koh-I-Noor diamond stands as a captivating historical artifact, captivating the interest of a global audience. While its monetary value eludes precise quantification, its historical relevance remains indisputable.

Conclusion

The world’s most costly diamonds are truly remarkable and awe-inspiring. Collectors and enthusiasts covet these precious stones, with their value often tied to rarity, size, and color.

From the record-breaking Pink Star Diamond, fetching a staggering $71.2 million at auction, to the iconic Hope Diamond, valued between $200-250 million, these diamonds are truly exceptional.

Other significant diamonds include the flawless 273.85-carat Centenary Diamond and the largest known red diamond, the Moussaieff Red Diamond. These gems hold value not just in terms of price but due to their unique histories and characteristics, passed down through generations or unearthed from remote sources, signifying their status as nature’s treasures.

The world’s most expensive diamonds serve as testaments to nature’s beauty and allure, captivating hearts and minds worldwide, ensuring their legacy continues for generations to come.