Top 10 Most Expensive and Rare Diamonds in the World

By The Crystals Library Team – Your trusted source for authentic crystal knowledge and spiritual guidance

History of Top 10 Most Expensive and Rare Diamonds in the World

From the Dawn of Time, people have been fascinated by mysterious, beautiful, and rare objects, and among them, diamonds stand as the prettiest stones ever discovered in nature. Found deep within the Earth and carefully mined, these naturally occurring substances have been considered valuable substances by human beings. The rarest diamonds — those in shades of blue, pink, and red — with high quality, clarity, and significant size possess a mysterious beauty that no ordinary stone could match. Their exceptional shine, reflection, and color make them not only most precious diamonds but also stunning objects that continue to spark interest and admiring glances across the world. As someone who has studied these gems closely, I have often seen how a single jewel can carry an unmatched beauty, an intrinsic beauty, and even a sense of eternal beauty that feels like holding a piece of unearthly jewels in hand.

The history of these exclusive and expensive treasures is just as captivating. Take the Cullinan Diamond, an extraordinary gem from South Africa, discovered in 1905 and later presented to King Edward VII as a coronation gift from the Transvaal colony. With a weight of 3106 carats, it was cut into nine separate stones and set within royal crown jewels, including scepters, broaches, and remarkable jewelry. These stunning diamond necklaces and eye-catching rings became symbols of royalty, rich culture, and historical significance, admired by modern aristocrats, wealthiest individuals, and even powerful organizations. Their astonishing opulence, incomparable price, and hefty price tags have made them the most expensive and sought-after treasures in the market, an exclusive list of rare gems that continue to increase value and inspire renowned jewelry designers. For me, holding even a small token of such highly valuable heritage feels like stepping into an epoch of human history, where royal treasure and sparkling items shaped structuring roles in society and defined the meaning of astonishing opulence.

Top 10 Most Expensive and Rare Diamonds in the World

1. The Blue Moon of Josephine Diamond: $48.4 Million

In 2015, the Blue Moon diamond caught the world’s attention when Hong Kong billionaire Joseph Lau purchased it at a Sotheby’s auction in Geneva for a record-setting price of $48.4 million. He later renamed it the Blue Moon of Josephine after his daughter, making it not only one of the world’s most precious and sought-after gems but also a deeply personal treasure. This 12.03 ct transparent blue diamond was carefully cut by master craftsmen to achieve perfect brilliance and is categorized as striking-fancy blue, considered nearly flawless. Its long, intriguing history adds even more charm, tracing back to India in 1796, when it became an engagement gift for Empress Josephine from Napoleon Bonaparte in 1812.

• Value: Initially noted at USD 45.5 million, later sold for $48.4 million

• Unique Feature: Shows a red shine under ultraviolet light

• Modern Twist: While owning such a rare piece is nearly impossible, lab-grown diamonds offer a look-alike at a fraction of the price — still enough to delight a future wife

2. Kohinoor – Priceless

The Kohinoor is an iconic diamond with a priceless history that carries deep cultural heritage, often contested yet cherished across the centuries in the Indian subcontinent. Known in Persian as the Mountain of Light, this dazzling stone formed from kimberlite rock veins that revealed pure light during its formation, leaving the world captivated by its stunning beauty, mystery, and remarkable size. Weighing approximately 105 carats, once evaluated at 793, it was later decreased to highlight its brilliance. This largest cut gemstone earned admiration from jewel experts as a symbol of luxury, wealth, and uniqueness, yet its privilege remains tied to allegations of being taken by the British, fueling ongoing controversy.

Originally mined in India’s Kollur Mine during the Kakatiya dynasty, it passed through owners including Nader Shah of Persia, the Mughal Empire, and later Queen Victoria, before being placed in the British Crown Jewels. Today, it rests in the Queen Mother’s Crown, though many believe it brings terrible luck to men, which is why only female family members have worn it in the U.K. Despite being a colorless fancy oval brilliant cut stone of 105.6 carats, its actual cost is unknown, as it was always traded or given as a gift, making it a truly rare, priceless gem. With its lengthy and fascinating history, the diamond remains an unparalleled symbol of splendour, power, and brilliance, once insured for $200 million, with experts now estimating its current price could be well over $500 million.

• Origin: Golconda, India

• Cut: Oval, polished, brilliant

• Notable Owners: Mughal throne, Nader Shah, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth

• Status: Most expensive diamond in the world

3. The Cullinan Diamond: $400 Million

The Cullinan Diamond, discovered in 1905 in South Africa, remains one of the world’s most famous diamonds because of its illustrious history and unparalleled value. Originally weighing an enormous rough diamond of 3106.75 carats, it was later cut into 9 major segments, including Cullinan I and Cullinan VIII, which are now part of the British Crown Jewels. Known as the Star of Africa, this magnificent treasure symbolizes wealth, power, and influence, with an estimated cost of over $400 million. I’ve always found its story captivating, especially how such an extraordinary stone continues to captivate people more than a century after being unearthed.

• Origin: Cullinan mine, South Africa

• Original weight: 3106.75 carats (biggest raw gem diamond ever found)

• Largest cut stone: Cullinan I at about 530.2 carats

• Setting: Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, used in coronations since 1661

• Value: Over $400 million (making it one of the most costly diamonds)

4. The Pink Star Diamond: $71.2 Million

The Pink Star Diamond is one of the most recognized diamonds in the world, first discovered in Africa and later cut and polished by Steinmetz Diamonds. Originally a massive 132.5-carat stone, it took 2 years for master cutters to refine it into a 59.6-carat masterpiece, an internally flawless vivid pink diamond graded by a gemological laboratory. In 2017, it was auctioned in Hong Kong by Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and sold for $71.2 million, later being renamed CTF Pink Star in remembrance of the chairman’s late father. I personally see it as more than just a jewel—it’s a magnificent gemstone that reflects both beauty and history, something that only a few in the world’s 99.99% population could ever dream of owning.

• Formerly known as: Steinmetz Pink

• Current weight: 59.6 carats (from original 132.5 carats)

• Unique cut: Oval-shaped with step-cut crown and brilliant-cut pavilion

• Auction price: $71.2 million (record-breaking)

• Renamed: CTF Pink Star by Chow Tai Fook Enterprises

• Special moment: Unveiled in Monaco, 2003, even worn by supermodel Helena Christensen around her neck

5. The Hope Diamond: $250 Million

The Hope Diamond is one of the most iconic and beautiful diamonds in existence, admired across the world for its deep blue hue that has captivated admirers for centuries. This fancy dark grayish-blue treasure, first discovered in the 1600s and once owned by King Louis XIV, weighs around 45-carat (precisely 45.52 carats) with an ancient cushion cut.

Housed today in the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C., it draws countless visitors who marvel at its stunning beauty, while tales of a curse and a wretched past—being stolen, purchased, then reappeared after 50 years—add to its legend. Linked stories of people who experienced terrible luck made it even more famous. In 1958, Harry Winston donated this gem, sometimes called French Blue or Le Bleu de France, to the Smithsonian Museum. Analysts estimate its actual value at nearly $350 million, making it one of the most expensive gemstones ever, rivaling the Cullinan Diamond and the Kohinoor, each with their own extraordinary qualities and extraordinary past.

• Origin: Golconda, India

• Carat Weight: 45.52 carats

• Cut: Antique cushion

• Discovered: 17th century, Kollur Mine

• Value Estimate: $350 million

6. The Centenary Diamond – $100 million

The De Beers Centenary Diamond is one of the most impressive and exquisite gems in the world, discovered in 1986 at the De Beers Premier Mine in South Africa. This remarkable gemstone, weighing an extraordinary 273.85 carat, became a symbol of success and prestige when it was unveiled to the public during the 100th-anniversary celebration in 1988. Known for its unique combination of exquisite clarity, color, fire, and brilliance, it is often regarded as one of the world’s most coveted jewels. The glorious Centenary Diamond, with its heart-shaped brilliant cut, holds the highest color grade (D) and flawless clarity, earning praise for its unparalleled beauty. Though De Beers does not currently own it, the anonymous owner remains unknown, and its whereabouts are still a mystery.

• Origin: Cullinan, South Africa

• Carat Weight: 273.85 carats

• Cut: Modified heart shape

• Estimated Worth: $100 million

7. The Graff Lesedi La Rona: $53 Million

The Graff Lesedi La Rona is an iconic diamond that stands as the largest of its kind in existence, a truly magnificent gem with a story that feels almost unreal. First discovered in 2015 in Botswana, this phenomenal rough diamond of 1,109 carats was later sold to Graff Diamonds in 2017, where renowned jeweler Laurence Graff and his team spent 18 months to cut, refine, and shape it into a single 302.37-carat gem along with 66 raised diamonds. Certified by the GIA as the highest colour and clarity, this square emerald cut jewel, often called “Our Light” in the Tswana language, has an estimated worth of $53 million, making it not only valuable but also an invaluable masterpiece that remains in Graff’s ownership today.

• Origin: From a rough stone, the second-largest gem-quality diamond ever found, only surpassed by the Cullinan diamond.

• Transformation: Expert cutters and gemmologists created multiple facets of rare beauty.

• Legacy: A historic discovery, retaining exceptional value and rarity, truly a marvel of nature and craftsmanship.

8. The Regent Diamond: $61 Million

When I first explored the story of the Regent Diamond, I realized why it is one of the most sought-after diamonds in the world. This magnificent blue-white diamond, cut into a cushion shape and weighing 140.5 carats (later recorded as 140.64 carats), carries a turbulent history filled with power, tragedy, and prestige. Discovered at the Kollur Mine in India by slave miners over 200 years ago, it changed hands many times — from rulers to royals, from war to revolution — before finally finding its final destination at the Louvre Museum in Paris. Its journey makes it not only a stunning gem but also a precious piece of history, now valued at $60 million.

Key milestones in its journey:

• Early Discovery: Found at Kollur Mine, India, initially hidden by an enslaved man, later killed by an English sea captain who sold it to a merchant.

• Royal Connections: Sold to Thomas Pitt, the Governor of Fort St. George, later presented to King George IV of England.

• French Legacy: Set in the crowns of Louis XV and Louis XVI, and even adorned one of Marie Antoinette’s hats.

• Napoleon’s Treasure: In 1801, Napoleon Bonaparte permanently acquired it for his sword’s guard.

• Revolution & Recovery: Stolen during the French Revolution, but recovered years later in 1887, where it has since resided in the Louvre.

Its exceptional beauty, tumultuous history, and legendary ownership make the Regent Diamond one of the most unforgettable gems ever discovered.

9. The Graff Pink Diamond – $46.2 million

When I first read about the Graff Pink, I was struck by how an exquisite stone of just 24.78 CT could hold such deep history and unmatched beauty. Once in the hands of legendary American celebrity jeweller Harry Winston, this fancy intense pink diamond was later purchased by Lawrence Graff in 2010. He trimmed and polished it to enhance its already intense pink hue, and soon it was sold for an astonishing $46 million at Sotheby’s Geneva. What makes it even more fascinating is that the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) certified it as internally perfect, a rarity in the world of diamonds. Today, this Type IIa diamond, perfectly re-cut and set in a platinum ring with two white diamonds, remains one of the most expensive single jewels in existence.

• Weighs: 24.78 carats

• Certified: GIA, internally perfect

• Sold for: $46.2 million

• Accented with: Platinum ring + two white diamonds

• Status: One of the most beautiful pink diamonds today

10. The Oppenheimer Blue Diamond: $57.5 million

The Oppenheimer Blue Diamond is one of the most remarkable gems in the world, first unveiled at a special diamond showing in London, where the audience was astonished by its unique color and stunningly beautiful stone. Named after Sir Philip Oppenheimer, a significant individual in the diamond industry, this 14.62-carat treasure is an emerald cut fancy vivid blue diamond, with its distinctive hue created by boron particles trapped in its crystal structure during formation ages ago. In 2016, it was sold at Christie’s Geneva for $57.5 million, making it one of the finest diamonds ever discovered and a cornerstone of prestigious collections around the world, admired for its beauty, sparkle, and unmatched rarity.

• Carat Weight: 14.62-carat

• Cut: Emerald cut, accented with two trapezoid diamonds

• Color: Fancy vivid blue, attributed to boron particles

• Sale Price: $57.5 million at Christie’s Geneva in 2016

• Legacy: Considered among the most vivid blue diamonds in existence

Conclusion

The top 10 most expensive and unique diamonds in the world form an impressive collection of stones that showcase both beauty and rarity. Each of these diamonds carries an incredible tale, making them some of the most sought-after gems and incredibly valuable treasures. Their unique characteristics and deep-rooted history act as a testament to the power, value, and lasting impact they have on luxury and wealth across generations.

When looking at this list, it’s clear that each diamond is carefully placed by price but also by legacy. From the magnificent Koh-I-Noor Diamond, considered priceless for its undefined beauty and unmatched brilliance, to fascinating stories that make them stand out as different from others, these diamonds remain the most followed gemstones in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is a diamond?
A. A diamond is a natural mineral made of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal structure, known for its extreme hardness and brilliance.

Q. Which type of diamond is best?
A. The best type of diamond depends on the 4 Cs – Cut, Clarity, Carat, and Color. A round brilliant cut with D color and flawless clarity is often considered the highest quality.

Q. How much is a 1 carat real diamond?
A. A 1 carat natural diamond costs anywhere between $2,000 to $16,000, depending on cut, clarity, and color.

Q. How to tell if a diamond is real?
A. A real diamond reflects light uniquely, fogs less when breathed on, and can scratch glass. Professional verification is done with a diamond tester or GIA certification.

Q. Which is the most expensive diamond in the world?
A. The Koh-i-Noor Diamond, held in the British Crown Jewels, is considered the most expensive diamond in the world and is priceless due to its history.

Q. What are the top 10 rarest diamonds?
A. The rarest diamonds include the Koh-i-Noor, Cullinan, Hope Diamond, Centenary Diamond, Pink Star, Graff Pink, Oppenheimer Blue, Regent Diamond, Moussaieff Red, and Lesedi La Rona.

Q. Which diamond is more expensive than Kohinoor?
A. Technically none, as the Koh-i-Noor is priceless and not available for sale. Other diamonds like the Pink Star ($71.2 million) are valued highly in auctions.

Q. What is the #1 most expensive thing in the world?
A. The most expensive thing in the world is the International Space Station (ISS), valued at over $150 billion.

Q. What is the most rare diamond in the world?
A. The red diamond is the rarest type, with the Moussaieff Red Diamond (5.11 carats) being the most famous example.

Q. What are the top 3 most expensive diamonds?
A. The top three are the Pink Star Diamond ($71.2 million), Oppenheimer Blue ($57.5 million), and the Regent Diamond ($61 million).

Q. Which is the most unique diamond in the world?
A. The Hope Diamond is considered the most unique due to its deep blue color, size, and mysterious history linked with legends.

Q. Where is the rarest diamond in the world?
A. The rarest diamonds, including blue and red diamonds, are mainly found in Cullinan Mine (South Africa) and Argyle Mine (Australia).

Q. What is the rarest fancy diamond?
A. The Fancy Red Diamond is the rarest fancy-colored diamond, with only a few known stones worldwide.