Diamonds are among the most sought-after naturally occurring substances found by man. The most coveted diamonds are those that display exceptional color and clarity and are of considerable size. Blue, pink and red diamonds are the rarest of them all with price tags to match. The most expensive diamonds in the world are out of reach by the majority, but that doesn’t stop us from gazing. Top jewelry designers take their inspiration from these beauties to create some of the most expensive engagement rings of all time.
These exceptional gems have intrigued the world with their timeless beauty and unparalleled worth. The historical and societal significance of these gems has only served to increase their value. Diamonds have long been possessions of royalty often embroiled in controversy. Today, some of the wealthiest compete for a little piece of nature’s unearthed treasure. If diamonds aren’t your thing, check our list of birthstones by month to find the gem that’s best for you.
Discover 12 of the most expensive diamonds in the world, a representation of extraordinary opulence:
12-Allnatt Diamond: $3.043 million:
Major Alfred Ernest Allnatt, a British businessman and art collector, has been immortalized in the namesake of this 101.29 carat Fancy Vivid Yellow Diamond. It is thought to have originated from the De Beers Premier mine in South Africa, before Major Allnatt purchased it in the 1950s and commissioned Cartier to make a flower shaped setting for it. Colored diamonds over 100 carats are incredibly rare and this particular specimen is one of the largest yellow diamonds ever found. At its initial sale by Christie’s Geneva at auction in May 1996 it had weighed 102.07 carats and was graded as a Fancy Intense Yellow; after being bought by SIBA Corporation the stone was regraded as a Fancy Vivid Yellow, eventually selling for an impressive $3,043,496 USD.
11-Kohinoor: priceless:
The Kohinoor diamond is perhaps the most sought-after item in the world. Lovingly referred to as the Mountain of Light, given its classic name of Kohinoor in Persian, this precious stone has been awarded priceless status due to its unique features and unparalleled brilliance. The diamond was once said to have weighed around 793 carats before it was cut down to bring out its perfection. However, there is a long and complicated controversy surrounding ownership of the gemstone that extends all the way back to when India was under colonial rule. Many believe that the British Empire stole it from India, leading to an ongoing debate around who should take possession of this miraculous piece, which is sure to continue for many years to come.
| Origin: | Golconda, India |
| Carat Weight: | 105.6 carats |
| Cut: | Oval |
10-Golden Jubilee Diamond: $12 million:
The Golden Jubilee Diamond is renowned for its size, with a weight of 109.13g and 545.67 carats. What makes this brown diamond so special, is the golden hue that it radiates from its round brilliant cut. Discovered in the Premier Mine in South Africa in 1985, it was initially called “Unknown Brown” due to its dark shade at the time. It also came with multiple cracks processed within, so De Beers paid famed cutter Gabriel Tolkowsky to conduct the remarkable task of polishing it down. By tinkering inside an originated vibration-proof underground chamber, his team of experts was able to reduce the original 755.50 ct gemstone into a beautiful 545.57-carat diamond two years later. Now one of the most iconic jewelleries around – living proof of the rewards offered by hard work and dedication – this Golden Jubilee Diamond continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its grandeur and beauty alike.
In a grand and spectacular ceremony, a team of Thai businessmen, led by Henry Ho, celebrated the 50th coronation anniversary of King Bhumibol with a very special present—a huge diamond! As a symbol of their love and admiration for the royal family, they presented the diamond to King Bhumibol’s daughter, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The diamond was not only an example of luxury and extravagance but also an incredibly meaningful gift from the Thai businessmen to honor the occasion. The large and dazzling diamond reflects just how much celebration was associated with the coronation anniversary of King Bhumibol’s reign.
