Top 10 Most Expensive Engagement Rings in the World

Within the context of a marriage proposal, an engagement ring represents dedication and affection between two partners. Typically crafted from precious materials like gold, silver, or diamonds, it is traditionally worn on the left hand’s ring finger, often embellished with a gemstone. The act of exchanging engagement rings has roots in ancient customs and has evolved into a globally recognized tradition over time.

The unique design choices of an engagement ring can reflect the preferences and personalities of both the giver and the receiver. It symbolizes the promise of a lasting bond with another individual. This article delves into the significance of engagement rings and presents a list of the top 10 most expensive engagement rings in the world.

History of Engagement Rings

The tradition of exchanging engagement rings dates back centuries, with evidence of ancient Egyptians exchanging rings as a symbol of eternal love. Rings made of iron were worn on the left hand’s fourth finger in ancient Rome, as they believed that a vein ran directly from that finger to the heart. This belief is still prevalent today, with that finger often referred to as the “ring finger.”

Gemstones gained popularity in engagement rings during the 18th century due to their perceived mystical properties and protective qualities. However, it was not until the 15th century that the first diamond engagement ring was presented to Mary of Burgundy by Archduke Maximilian of Austria. The De Beers diamond company launched a marketing campaign in the early 20th century that revolutionized the engagement ring industry. The slogan “A Diamond Is Forever” encouraged men to spend two weeks’ salary on a diamond engagement ring, establishing the tradition of diamond engagement rings as the norm.

Engagement rings have been available in a wide range of designs and styles over time, from traditional diamond rings to unique gemstones and intricate settings. Many couples choose to personalize their rings by engraving them or incorporating personal elements. While the practice of engagement rings has evolved, the core principle remains the same: to symbolize love, commitment, and the promise of a shared future.

Different Styles of Engagement Rings

• A solitaire engagement ring features a single stone or gem on a plain band, providing a classic and timeless option.
• A halo engagement ring includes a central stone surrounded by a circle of additional stones, creating a dazzling and radiant effect.
• Three-Stone: A three-stone ring has a central stone flanked by two smaller stones, symbolizing the past, present, and future of the couple.
• An antique engagement ring showcases designs from a historical period, such as Art Deco or Gothic, with intricate details and unique patterns.
• A modern engagement ring incorporates contemporary craftsmanship and designs, often with a minimalist and elegant aesthetic.
• Colored gemstones like rubies or sapphires can add vibrancy and individuality to an engagement ring.
• Custom: Customized engagement rings allow couples to create a unique and personalized design that reflects their individual tastes and sense of style.

Importance of Engagement Rings

• Symbolism: An engagement ring embodies care, dedication, and the promise of a future together. It serves as a tangible representation of a couple’s intimate connection and a reaffirmation of the commitment to love and cherish each other.
• The tradition of presenting an engagement ring is a time-honored ritual in many cultures, dating back centuries. It is a gesture of honoring the sacred bond of marriage and the commitment that individuals make to each other.
• Milestones: An engagement ring is often given to commemorate a significant milestone in a relationship. It marks the beginning of a new chapter while reflecting the bond of love that brought the couple together.
• Emotional significance: The engagement ring holds sentimental value for both the giver and the recipient. It can serve as a cherished memento of the relationship and the milestones achieved together.
• Investment: For some, an engagement ring represents a long-term investment. It can be a valuable asset with enduring worth that is passed down to future generations as a piece of family history.

Top 10 Most Expensive Engagement Rings

• Pink Star Diamond Ring – Worth $83M
• Graff Diamond Ring – Worth $80M
• Oppenheimer Blue Diamond Ring – Worth $57.5M
• Blue-Star Diamond Ring – Worth $48.4M
• Graff Pink Diamond Ring – Worth $46.2M
• Cullinan Dream – Worth $25.4M
• Sky Blue Diamond Ring – Worth $25M
• Perfect Pink – Worth $23.2M
• Bulgari Blue – Worth $18.3M
• Vivid Yellow Diamond Ring – Worth $16.26M

The Pink Star Diamond, set on a platinum ring with four prongs, is a rare ‘fancy pink’ diamond discovered in South Africa by De Beers in 1999. The diamond underwent over two decades of precision cutting to achieve its flawless diamond shape. When this extraordinary and massive stone went up for auction at Sotheby’s in Hong Kong in April 2017, it caused a frenzy.

After intense bidding from multiple parties, the hammer finally fell at $83 million, making it the most expensive engagement ring ever sold. The winning bidder was Chinese jewelry company Chow Tai Fook Enterprises, acquiring the most exquisite diamond engagement ring on record and renaming it the CTF Pink Star in commemoration of the occasion.

A masterpiece of art and a precious stone, the Wittelsbach-Graff diamond was the focus of the Crest of Bavaria until sold mostly by the Wittelsbach clan in 1931. Originally from Golkonda, India, it was first recorded in 1686 as Habsburg property. When Archduchess Maria Amelia of Austria married Charles of Bavaria, it passed to the Bavarian Wittelsbach dynasty as part of a settlement.

The Wittelsbach dynasty owned it until 1931 when it was auctioned and eventually ended up with private owners. In December 2008, Graff supposedly leased the magnificent diamond engagement ring to the Emir of Qatar for $80 million, showcasing a fantastic return on investment.

The Oppenheimer Blue, the brightest artistic kyanite ever demanded, is a remarkable addition to the collection of finest beautiful engagement rings. The centerpiece, designated for Sir Philip Oppenheimer, is set between two trapeze-cut stones on a platinum five-blade circle.

Little was known about the ring until it was offered for purchase at Christie’s Geneva in May 2016, sparking significant interest and fierce bidding from two determined participants before it was finally sold.

The centerpiece of this exceptional blue gemstone ring is a 12.03-carat kyanite, a truly rare and desirable find due to their limited occurrence. The Blue Star of Josephine stands out with its flawless characteristics, unlike most blue gems with their typical dark specks.

When this stunning engagement ring was offered at Sotheby’s Geneva in October 2011, it attracted global investors, resulting in a historic sale price of $48.4 million.

Legendary designer Harry Winston offered the Graff Pink in the 1950s, featuring a 24.78-carat emerald-cut pink diamond. Purchased by Laurence Graff at Sotheby’s in Nov 2010, it was renamed the ‘Graff Pink’ and hailed as the most remarkable gemstone in Graff’s history.

In June 2016, Christie’s New York sold the 24.18 karats Cullinan Dream for $25.4 million, featuring a blocky blended gravestone on a platinum band.

Gem side inscriptions and birthstone-cut gems have become popular recently. The Cullinan Dream, like the Oppenheimer Blue, originated from the Cullinan quarry. It was the largest of four stones cut from a 122.52 karat raw blue star discovered there in 2014.

Premium colored gems are in high demand as they accentuate bands with variegated jewels instead of tintless ones. Blue gems are rare, comprising just 0.0001% of all mined gems. However, only about 1% of these precious stones exhibit the vivid color and brilliance required to be classified as Fancy Vibrant.

The Sky Blue Diamond Engagement ring epitomizes the beauty of a cloudless sky. It symbolizes reliability, assurance, purity, and accountability. The 8-carat band features a stunning transparent Elysian blue square-cut stone set by Cartier after excavation.

The Perfect Pink Diamond Ring boasts a giant pink diamond, the only one marketed as a pictorial pink diamond. The 14.23-carat gem is set in an 18k pink band with two brilliant gems. It sold for $30 million, far surpassing its initial valuation.

Bulgari’s Blue Diamond Ring, designed in 1972, features two large gems. The primary stone is a 10.95-carat fancy vibrant blue gem, complemented by a 9.87-carat clear diamond. The ring was auctioned for $18.3 million at Christie’s Nyc.

The Vivid Yellow Diamond Ring, a 100-carat multicolored piece, fetched $16.26 million at Sotheby’s. Its unheroic stone allows for modification, creating a versatile accessory.

Purchasing a high-end jewelry piece should align with personal preferences and finances. The value of a ring goes beyond its monetary worth; it signifies commitment and significance in a relationship. While the allure of an expensive ring is undeniable, other aspects of a relationship may warrant equal attention and investment in this modern age of weddings and engagements.