Sapphires are among the most valuable gemstones in the world. Known for their stunning blue hues, they have been prized by royalty and collectors for centuries. But what is the most expensive sapphire ever sold? In this article, we will explore the record-breaking sapphires, their histories, and what makes them so valuable.
What Makes a Sapphire Expensive?
Before discussing the most expensive sapphire, it is important to understand what factors determine its value.
The most desirable sapphires have a rich, deep blue color. The finest shade is called cornflower blue. High-quality sapphires have few or no visible inclusions, which are internal flaws. A well-cut sapphire reflects light beautifully, enhancing its brilliance. Larger sapphires are rarer and more valuable. Sapphires from Kashmir, Burma, and Ceylon, now known as Sri Lanka, are the most sought-after. Untreated sapphires, meaning those with no heat or chemical enhancements, are more valuable.
Now, let us look at the most expensive sapphires in history.
1. The Blue Belle of Asia
This sapphire weighs 392.52 carats and originates from Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon. Its color is a velvety cornflower blue. It was auctioned for 17.3 million dollars in 2014.
The Blue Belle of Asia is one of the largest and finest blue sapphires ever discovered. Mined in Sri Lanka in the early 20th century, it was owned by several collectors before being auctioned at Christie’s Geneva in 2014.
This sapphire is so valuable because of its exceptional color and clarity. The stone has a perfect cornflower blue hue with no visible flaws. At nearly 400 carats, it is an extremely rare giant sapphire. Its long history adds to its mystique and value.
2. The Rockefeller Sapphire
This sapphire weighs 62.02 carats and comes from Burma, now Myanmar. Its color is an intense blue. It was auctioned for 3 million dollars in 2001 and later resold for a much higher price.
This sapphire was once owned by the famous Rockefeller family. It was purchased by John D. Rockefeller in 1934 and later set into a ring. In 2001, it was sold at auction for 3 million dollars, but its value has since increased significantly.
This sapphire is so valuable because of its perfect color and cut. The stone has a deep, uniform blue color and an excellent step-cut. Being part of the Rockefeller collection adds historical importance. Large, untreated Burmese sapphires are extremely rare.
3. The Star of Adam
This sapphire weighs 1,404 carats, making it the largest blue star sapphire in the world. It originates from Sri Lanka and has a milky blue color with a strong star effect. Its estimated value is between 100 and 300 million dollars.
Discovered in 2015 in Sri Lanka, the Star of Adam is the largest blue star sapphire in the world. It was named after the belief that Adam from the Bible once lived in Sri Lanka.
This sapphire is so valuable because of its size. At 1,404 carats, it is a world record holder. The stone displays a sharp, six-rayed star, which is rare in such a large gem. Its origin story and massive size make it a legendary gem.
4. The Logan Sapphire
This sapphire weighs 423 carats and comes from Sri Lanka. Its color is a deep blue. It is currently housed in the Smithsonian Museum, with an estimated current value between 1 and 3 million dollars.
Donated to the Smithsonian in 1960, the Logan Sapphire is one of the largest faceted blue sapphires in the world. It is set in a brooch surrounded by diamonds.
This sapphire is so valuable because of its sheer size. Over 400 carats, it is a museum-worthy piece. Despite its size, it has excellent transparency. It is a centerpiece of the Smithsonian’s gem collection.
5. The Queen Marie of Romania Sapphire
This sapphire weighs 478 carats in its uncut state and originates from Sri Lanka. Its color is a royal blue. It is currently owned by a private collector, with an estimated value between 1 and 2 million dollars.
This sapphire was gifted to Queen Marie of Romania in the early 1900s. It remains one of the largest uncut sapphires in existence.
This sapphire is so valuable because of its royal connection, having been owned by European royalty. Being uncut, it is a rare specimen for collectors. Even in rough form, its blue color is mesmerizing.
Why Are Kashmir Sapphires the Most Expensive?
While the sapphires listed above are incredibly valuable, Kashmir sapphires are often considered the most expensive per carat. Here is why.
Kashmir sapphires are rare, having been mined only in the 1880s to 1900s. They are almost extinct in the market. They have a unique velvety blue hue unmatched by other sapphires. Most are completely natural, with no heat treatment, increasing their value.
The most expensive Kashmir sapphire is the Sunrise Sapphire, which sold for 6.74 million dollars in 2015. It weighs 25.59 carats. Its perfect cornflower blue color and Kashmir origin make it one of the most expensive sapphires per carat.
Conclusion
Based on confirmed auction prices, the Blue Belle of Asia, which sold for 17.3 million dollars, holds the record for the most expensive sapphire ever sold. However, the Star of Adam, estimated to be worth between 100 and 300 million dollars, could surpass it if ever auctioned.
Sapphires are timeless treasures, and the most expensive ones combine size, color, clarity, and history. Whether it is the legendary Blue Belle of Asia or the mysterious Star of Adam, these gems continue to captivate collectors and jewelers worldwide.
Would you invest in a multi-million-dollar sapphire? The choice is yours, but one thing is certain: these gems are among the most breathtaking natural wonders on Earth.
Related Topics:
- The World’s Most Expensive Sapphire: What You Need To Know
- What Are White and Yellow Sapphires?
- What is a Cornflower Ceylon Sapphire?
