Sapphires have long captivated humanity with their mesmerizing beauty and timeless allure. Renowned for their stunning hues ranging from deep blues to vibrant pinks, these precious gemstones have a rich history steeped in royalty, mythology, and mystique. In the world of gemstone aficionados and collectors, sapphires hold a special place of reverence, particularly those that command astronomical prices at auctions and private sales.
Exploring the realm of luxury and opulence, we delve into the fascinating world of the most expensive sapphires ever to grace the market. From legendary pieces worn by royalty to breathtaking specimens boasting unparalleled size and rarity, each of these sapphires tells a tale of prestige, sophistication, and the enduring fascination with these coveted gems. Join us on a journey through the realms of extravagance and refinement as we unveil the stories behind these remarkable treasures and the staggering prices they command, offering a glimpse into a world where beauty meets unparalleled value.
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List of Most Expensive Sapphires
The Blue Belle of Asia
In November 2014, at Christie’s Geneva auction, a remarkable gem known as the Blue Belle Of Asia claimed the coveted title of the most expensive blue sapphire globally. This pristine 392.52-carat Ceylon sapphire, in its untreated state, mesmerized onlookers with its enchanting cushion-cut, inviting them to peer into its profound azure depths. The auction’s climax saw a staggering sale price of $17,305,996, setting an unprecedented world record for the highest auctioned amount ever paid for a sapphire.
The Kashmir Sapphire
This rare 27-carat Kashmir sapphire possesses an exquisite natural royal blue hue untouched by heat treatment. Its exceptional clarity and saturated color speak to the prized gems found in the Kashmir region. Set by Graff in an elegant mount alongside two spectacular pear-shaped diamonds, the jewel evokes regal splendor. The accompanying appraisal reinforces the extraordinary traits that warrant singular attention. Sapphires of this immaculate size and quality from Kashmir represent the peak of the natural gem trade. This breathtaking stone represents a truly unique find with an unmatched vibrancy.
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The Richelieu Sapphires
In November 2013, Sotheby’s Geneva hosted the auction of the illustrious Richelieu Sapphires, fetching an impressive sum of $8,358,520. Comprising two captivating pieces, each adorned with a cushion-shaped sapphire, one weighing 26.66 carats and the other 20.88 carats, the set exudes timeless elegance. Suspended delicately from stars embellished with diamonds, these untreated sapphires carry a rich history, having originally been presented as a wedding gift to Odile de Richelieu during the 17th century. Now, in the hands of a fortunate modern-day lady, they serve as a testament to the enduring allure of impeccable style and refined taste across the ages.
The Oval Beauty – A Burmese Sapphire
This remarkable 114.74-carat neelam stone, unearthed from Burma’s gemstone mines, captivated attendees at Sotheby’s Geneva in November 2013 when it sold for an outstanding $7.2 million. Its rare cornflower blue radiance stands unenhanced by heat treatment, a testament to nature’s pristine artistry. Sapphires of such immaculate clarity, vibrant color, and exceptional carat weight represent the pinnacle of Burmese gem production. The boundless creative possibilities for this stone span from lavish statement pieces to modern minimalist designs befitting its crystalline perfection. Its new owner holds a truly matchless gem with the potential to become the dazzling centerpiece of jewelry craftsmanship yet unseen. This is a once-in-a-lifetime discovery of size and splendor that promises to walk in the footsteps of history’s most fabled sapphires.
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Exceptional Unmounted Blue Sapphire
This exceptional specimen of a “Royal Blue” Sapphire distinguished itself from others on the list by its unique presentation—it wasn’t mounted in any jewelry setting. Nonetheless, its allure transcended expectations as it soared past its estimated value, fetching over 2.5 times the highest estimate at auction. For a fleeting moment, it even claimed the title of the highest-priced single sapphire ever auctioned, until the Richelieu Sapphires eclipsed its record in the same event.
Originating from the Mogok region of Burma, this sapphire boasts a mesmerizing saturated blue hue, attributed to a harmonious blend of trace elements inherent to the finest Mogok sapphires. Often described poetically as “royal blue,” its color is truly captivating. Meticulously cut from rough crystal, the sapphire was expertly crafted to showcase its exquisite color to perfection.
The Rockfeller Sapphire Ring – A Rare Burmese Sapphire
Unearthed in Burma, this regal 62.02-carat sapphire dazzles with its deep intensive blue radiance untouched by heat enhancement. Set in sleek platinum by Tiffany & Co., the rectangular gemstone once graced Rockefeller ownership before mesmerizing Christie’s NYC auctioneers with a $3 million sale in 2011. Its crisp facets and azure brilliance reflect Burmese mines’ most exemplary yield. The subtle modern setting allows the sapphire’s splendor to take center stage while flanking diamonds imbue subtle added glamour. This rare natural treasure, classified among the upper echelon of quality sapphires, carries forward the legacy of exceptional gemstones that have captivated royalty and connoisseurs alike throughout history. Its deep oceanic hue harbors mysteries and allure that transcend time and entice new stewards to safeguard its enduring spellbinding aura for generations to come.
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The Burmese Sapphire & Diamond Brooch – A Mellerio Design
In May 2012, at Christie’s Geneva auction, a magnificent creation by Mellerio captivated bidders—the 47.15-carat Burmese Sapphire and Diamond Brooch. Commanding a price of $3,648,894, this masterpiece exudes regal elegance. At its center rests a resplendent royal blue sapphire, octagonally cut to perfection, unblemished by any signs of treatment or heating. Adorned with a dazzling diamond ribbon, the brooch’s design harks back to the opulence of royal jewels, fitting for a queen’s adornment.
Cote D’Azur’ Brooch, By Anna Hu – A Contemporary Jewel
In November 2013, Christie’s Geneva witnessed the remarkable sale of the ‘Côte D’Azur’ Brooch, an exquisite creation by Anna Hu, for a staggering $4,569,684. At its heart lies a captivating 58.29-carat untreated blue cushion-shaped sapphire, delicately set in gold and encircled by an array of diverse gemstones arranged in a floral motif. This masterpiece stands as a testament to artistic brilliance and is coveted as a prized possession for discerning collectors.
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Elizabeth Taylor Sapphire Necklace by Bvlgari
A remarkable 52.72 carat untreated Burmese sapphire was sold at one of the most renowned jewelry auctions in history. This rare gem was set in an iconic piece by the illustrious jewelry house Bvlgari, and once belonged to iconic actress Elizabeth Taylor’s renowned jewelry collection. Taylor’s high profile and remarkable jewelry assemblage captured worldwide attention, further spotlighting this important sapphire. Standing on its own merits yet showcased among the stellar offerings of the auction, this huge unenhanced Burmese sapphire commanded significant notice and remains notewothy as part of auction history.
The Queen of Romania Sapphire
In 1922, during the coronation of her husband, King Ferdinand of Romania, the renowned Queen Marie adorned herself with a historic sapphire pendant necklace. This extraordinary piece, boasting a weight of 478.68 carats, holds the distinction of being one of the world’s five largest sapphires. Its origins trace back to its discovery in Cartier’s studio in 1913.
The necklace made a notable appearance on Queen Marie, who was the granddaughter of both Queen Victoria of Great Britain and Czar Alexander II of Russia. Its significance and rarity were underscored when it was last auctioned at Christie’s in 2003, fetching a remarkable price of $2,105,667.
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