Pearls have long been symbols of elegance, luxury, and refinement. Due to their natural beauty and rarity, some pearls have fetched astronomical prices in auctions and private sales. In this article, we delve into the ten most expensive pearls in the world, exploring their unique histories, distinctive features, and the reasons behind their extraordinary values.
1. The Pearl of Allah
Also known as the Pearl of Lao Tzu, this massive pearl weighs 6.4 kilograms (14.1 pounds) and measures 24 centimeters (9.45 inches) in diameter. Discovered in 1934 in the Philippines, it is considered the largest pearl in the world and is valued at approximately $100 million.
2. The Hope Pearl
Weighing about 450 carats, the Hope Pearl is a stunningly rare natural seawater pearl. Once owned by the famed gemstone collector Henry Philip Hope, it boasts impressive white, green, and golden hues. Its estimated value ranges from $200,000 to $250,000.
3. The Wanderer Pearl
This 50.6-carat natural pearl has a rich history spanning over 500 years, including ownership by British royalty such as Queen Mary I and Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III. It was auctioned in 2011 as part of a Cartier-designed necklace for $11.8 million.
4. The Sleeping Lion Pearl
Weighing approximately 300 carats, the Sleeping Lion Pearl is one of the largest existing natural freshwater pearls. Its unique shape resembles a sleeping lion, hence its name. This historic pearl was auctioned for $374,000 in 2018.
5. The Cowdray Pearls
This exquisite necklace of 38 natural grey pearls was once owned by British aristocrat Lady Pearson. In 2012, the Cowdray Pearls fetched $5.3 million at Christie's, setting a world record for natural grey pearls.
6. The Baroda Pearl Necklace
Comprising two strands of 68 natural pearls, this necklace was once a part of the Indian royal treasury. It was auctioned for $7.1 million in 2007.
7. The Duchess of Windsor Pearl Necklace
This elegant necklace, consisting of 28 natural pearls, was once owned by Wallis Simpson, Duchess of Windsor. It set a new record for pearl necklaces when it sold for $733,333 at a Sotheby's auction in 1987.
8. The Big Pink Pearl
Discovered by a diver off the California coast in 1990, this unique and rare natural abalone pearl weighs 470 carats. It is valued at approximately $4.7 million.
9. The Akooya Pearl
Weighing 575 carats, the Akooya Pearl is a massive natural saltwater pearl from the Arabian Sea. Formerly owned by Persian royalty, it is currently valued at about $8 million.
10. The Royal Hong Kong Pearl
This rare and exquisite pearl necklace features 127 natural pearls from the South China Sea. It was auctioned for $5.2 million at Sotheby's in 2015.
These ten pearls are not only among the most expensive in the world but also carry with them rich histories and unique characteristics that make them truly invaluable. As symbols of wealth and luxury, they continue to fascinate and captivate collectors and enthusiasts around the globe.