Some stones shine. Others steal the spotlight. Over the years, certain diamond sales have stunned the world—not because they existed, but because someone had the nerve (and wallet) to claim them. These weren’t just transactions; they were moments that turned collectors into legends. So, let’s take a closer look at 10 gems and the high-rollers who sealed the deal.
The Pink Star
All eyes were on Hong Kong in 2017 when the 59.6-carat Pink Star shattered records at Sotheby’s. Selling for $71.2 million, it became the most expensive gem ever auctioned. The buyer, Hong Kong-based jewelry company Chow Tai Fook, renamed it the legendary CTF Pink Star after its initials.
Blue Moon Of Josephine
Geneva’s auction floor buzzed with excitement as a 12.03-carat blue diamond commanded $48.4 million in 2015. Joseph Lau, the buyer, gifted it to his young daughter and named it the Blue Moon of Josephine. Its vivid hue and symmetry made headlines around the globe.
Graff Vivid Yellow
Here’s a gem that practically radiates light. The Graff Vivid Yellow, a 100.09-carat marvel, sold for $16.3 million at Sotheby’s before Laurence Graff swiftly added it to his treasure trove. Its rich, lemony brilliance earned it a top spot among the rarest yellow diamonds ever auctioned.
Archduke Joseph
History and sparkle collided in 2012 when Archduke Joseph hit the block. This 76.02-carat, D-color diamond once belonged to Hungarian royalty and fetched $21.5 million. Although the buyer chose to remain anonymous, the gem’s aristocratic lineage still draws strong interest from collectors around the world.
The Winston Legacy
In the spring of 2013, Christie’s revealed a flawless 101.73-carat pear-shaped diamond that instantly made waves. Harry Winston, Inc. secured it for $26.7 million, which became known as the Winston Legacy. The purchase subtly marked the brand’s bold debut under Swatch Group’s glittering new leadership.
Zoe Diamond
Despite its petite size, the 9.75-carat Zoe Diamond stirred up big drama in 2014. It sold for a jaw-dropping $32.6 million, setting a new record per carat. The buyer, Hong Kong tycoon Joseph Lau, named it after his daughter, Zoe Lau, cementing its place in both family lore and auction history.
The Orange
Unlike any diamond before it, The Orange took center stage at Christie’s in 2013 with electrifying energy. Weighing 14.82 carats, it stunned bidders by selling for $35.5 million. With its flame-like hue and VS1 clarity, it remains the largest Fancy Vivid Orange diamond ever sold.
The Graff Pink
At a 2010 Sotheby’s sale, a 24.78-carat pink diamond took everyone by surprise with its $46 million price tag. Laurence Graff purchased and re-cut the gem, refining its shape and brilliance. The result was a more symmetrical masterpiece that reflected Graff’s relentless pursuit of flawlessness.
Oppenheimer Blue
Making waves in 2016, the Oppenheimer Blue dazzled with elegance in every detail. Weighing 14.62 carats, this rectangular-cut gem was once part of De Beers’ exclusive collection. It sold for $57.5 million, showing just how prized its rare origins and striking color were among collectors.
Wittelsbach-Graff
Laurence Graff surprised the diamond world after acquiring the 31.06-carat Wittelsbach diamond for $24.3 million. He controversially re-cut the royal heirloom, once part of the European crown jewels, to enhance its clarity. Though polarizing, the bold move forever changed the stone’s history.
