Most Valuable Sapphire Gemstones
Introduction
You've likely heard that the rarest and priciest sapphire is the pink-orange padparadscha from Sri Lanka. While padparadscha stones are indeed exceptionally scarce, the top blue sapphires are the ones that command the highest bids at auctions. Isn't it interesting how color and origin play such a big role in their value? For more details, check out our Sapphire Gemstone Information guide.
The Blue Belle of Asia: A Record-Breaker
The most expensive sapphire on record is the "Blue Belle of Asia." This impressive 392.52-carat gem, recognized as one of the largest and most outstanding blue sapphires globally, fetched $17.3 million at a Geneva auction in 2014. Its remarkable color and clarity were key factors in achieving this unprecedented price.
The Kashmir Sapphire of James J. Hill
Another standout is a Kashmir sapphire first acquired by James J. Hill, a prominent American railway magnate. He bought it for $2,200 in 1886, set in a pendant with diamonds. Later, his descendants donated it to the Minnesota Historical Society. Described in Christie's catalog as cushion-cut, unheated (learn about natural sapphire), with a deeply saturated and uniform color plus excellent transparency, it sold to an anonymous buyer.
The Rockefeller Sapphire
The Rockefeller Sapphire came into John D. Rockefeller's possession in 1934 from an Indian maharajah, possibly the Nizam of Hyderabad, for an undisclosed sum. This 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut blue sapphire is set in a diamond ring. It appeared at Sotheby's in 1988 for $2.82 million and then at Christie's in 2001 for $3,031,000, equating to roughly $48,871 per carat.
Sri Lankan Wonders: Logan and Blue Giant
Not every top sapphire hails from Kashmir or Burma. The Logan Sapphire, given to the Smithsonian Institution in 1960 by Mrs. John A. Logan, is a 422.99-carat blue sapphire from Sri Lanka. Framed in a brooch with 20 round diamonds, it ranks as the second-largest known blue sapphire. The largest, the Blue Giant of the Orient, also from Sri Lanka, went unsold at a 2004 Christie's auction but reportedly changed hands afterward for $1 million.
Royal Sapphires: St. Edward's and Stuart
Many of the world's most valuable sapphires have never hit the auction block and probably never will. Take the St. Edward's Sapphire, a blue faceted cushion in the Maltese Cross on the United Kingdom's Imperial State Crown. Its weight remains unspecified, but its history traces back to 1042 AD. The British crown also includes the 104-carat Stuart Sapphire, positioned on the band at the crown's rear. Discover the deeper sapphire meaning and powers behind these royal gems.
The Black Star of Queensland
Some renowned sapphires have more humble beginnings. The 733-carat Black Star of Queensland started as a 1165-carat rough crystal found in 1935 by 14-year-old Roy Spencer. Remarkably, his family used it as a doorstop for years. It was bought by Kazanjian Brothers and cut in 1948. But is it the biggest star sapphire? Feel free to browse through our huge selection of sapphire gemstones for sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most expensive sapphire ever sold?
The Blue Belle of Asia holds the record, sold for $17.3 million in 2014.
Where do the finest blue sapphires typically come from?
They often originate from places like Kashmir, Burma, and Sri Lanka.
What makes a sapphire valuable?
Factors include color, clarity, size, origin, and whether it's untreated.
Is the padparadscha sapphire the rarest?
It's very rare, but blue sapphires can fetch higher prices due to demand.
What is the largest known blue sapphire?
The Blue Giant of the Orient is the largest, followed by the Logan Sapphire.
