Emeralds continue to be in style as pop culture and fashion experts continue to ogle the bridal party’s astounding jewellery selection, even if the Ambani-Mercant wedding may have come to an end – at least as far as we know. The focus of attention has been mostly on family matriarch Nita Ambani’s stunning collection of emeralds. We examine the most costly emeralds in the world along with their estimated values in light of this.
Emeralds, with their vivid green hues and captivating allure, have been prized for centuries as symbols of luxury and status. These precious gemstones, renowned for their rarity and unique inclusions, have graced the jewellery collections of royalty and celebrities alike. And given their lustre and incredible glitter, we certainly understand why.
One of the largest emeralds ever discovered, with a total weight of approximately 752 lbs (341 kg).
Price: Estimated value of USD 400 million.
The world’s most expensive emerald consists of eight crystals embedded in a host rock, including the largest single shard of emerald ever found. Valued at approximately USD 400 million, though its exact worth is unknown, the gem originates from the beryl mines of Bahia, Brazil, and was mined in 2001. The emerald has been at the centre of legal disputes, with 14 claimants and four lawsuits, and is considered by some to be cursed. Even now, it remains in a secure vault, inaccessible even to its owners.
A 23.46-carat Colombian emerald set in a ring, part of a stunning Bulgari brooch and necklace set.
Price: Sold for USD 6.5 million at Christie’s in 2011.
Elizabeth Taylor’s renowned emerald suite, gifted by Richard Burton, is among the most iconic collections in the world. The suite includes a flower brooch, pendant earrings, a necklace, a ring, and a bracelet. The most notable piece is the Bulgari rectangular-cut emerald brooch, surrounded by pear-shaped diamonds. This 23.46-carat brooch was given to Taylor during the filming of Cleopatra, symbolising the early days of her romance with Burton. It was later worn at their 1964 wedding and sold for over USD 6.5 million in 2011.
The Rockefeller Emerald is an 18.04-carat Colombian emerald known for its exceptional clarity and vivid green colour.
Price: Sold for USD 5.5 million at Christie’s in 2017.
The Rockefeller Emerald is celebrated as the most expensive per-carat emerald globally. Weighing 18.04 carats, this Colombian gem is distinguished by its remarkable clarity and vibrant green hue with blue undertones. Initially set into a brooch by Van Cleef & Arpels, it was bought by John D. Rockefeller Jr. for his wife, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller. Following her death, the brooch was taken apart, and the largest stone was transformed into the renowned ring. The emerald fetched USD 5.5 million, highlighting its unparalleled quality and history.
A stunning 75.61-carat emerald that was part of the Russian imperial jewellery collection.
Price: Sold for USD 4.5 million.
This exquisite piece was given to Grand Duchess Vladimir by Tsar Alexander II in 1874 as a wedding gift. Over the years, it has been owned by several notable collectors, including the famed jeweller Pierre Cartier. The necklace was eventually sold at auction for USD 4.5 million.
A 217.80-carat emerald, inscribed with Islamic text and adorned with intricate floral carvings.
Price: Sold for USD 2.2 million at Christie’s in 2001.
The Mogul Emerald, dating back to 1695, is one of the largest emeralds in the world, measuring 10 cm in height and weighing 217.80 carats. Originating from Colombia and shaped in India, this rectangular emerald features intricate Islamic inscriptions on one side, including the names of 12 Imams, and elaborate floral carvings on the other, reflecting the Mughal appreciation for nature. It was sold at Christie’s Auction House in London for USD 2.2 million in 2001 and now resides in the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar.
Emeralds have long captivated the hearts of royalty, celebrities, and collectors. Their vibrant green colour, combined with their rarity and unique histories, ensures they remain among the most prized gemstones in the world. From the grandeur of the Bahia Emerald to the storied Mogul Mughal Emerald, these top five most expensive emeralds serve as pieces of history.
(Main and featured images: Cartier)
This article was first published in Prestige Malaysia
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