Emeralds are some of the most valuable gemstones in the world, prized for their vibrant green color and rarity. Some emeralds are more valuable than others, however, and there are a handful of specimens that have sold for astronomical sums. In this article, we’ll take a look at the five most expensive emeralds in the world and what makes them so valuable.
The Mogul Emerald – $2.2 million
The Mogul Emerald is the most expensive emerald in the world, weighing in at a whopping 217.80 carats. It has a vivid green color with a slight blue tint and is virtually free of inclusions, making it exceptionally clear. The Mogul Emerald has a long and storied history, dating back to the Mughal Dynasty of India. It was sold at auction in 2001 for $2.2 million.
The Rockefeller Emerald – $5.5 million
The Rockefeller Emerald is a 18.04-carat gemstone with a deep green color and exceptional clarity. It was once owned by John D. Rockefeller Jr. and was part of his vast collection of precious gems. The emerald was sold at auction in 2017 for $5.5 million, making it one of the most expensive emeralds ever sold.
The Chalk Emerald – $6.5 million
The Chalk Emerald is a 37.82-carat gemstone with a deep green color and high clarity. It is named after its previous owner, Clare Boothe Luce, an American author, politician, and diplomat. The Chalk Emerald was sold for $2.2 million in 1972 and was later sold again in 2011 for $6.5 million, making it one of the most expensive emeralds in the world.
The Gachala Emerald – $5.5 million
The Gachala Emerald is a 858-carat gemstone that was discovered in Colombia in 1967. It has a bright green color and exceptional clarity, making it one of the most valuable emeralds in the world. The Gachala Emerald was sold at auction in 2016 for $5.5 million.
The Duke of Devonshire Emerald – $1.3 million
The Duke of Devonshire Emerald is a 1,383-carat gemstone with a deep green color and high clarity. It was discovered in Colombia in the 19th century and was once owned by the Duke of Devonshire, one of the wealthiest people in England at the time. The emerald was sold at auction in 2012 for $1.3 million.
In conclusion, emeralds are some of the most valuable gemstones in the world, and some specimens can sell for millions of dollars. The most expensive emerald in the world is the Mogul Emerald, which sold for $2.2 million in 2001. Other valuable emeralds include the Rockefeller Emerald, the Chalk Emerald, the Gachala Emerald, and the Duke of Devonshire Emerald. These gemstones are prized for their exceptional clarity, vivid color, and rarity.
