A rare and stunning 37-carat emerald, once owned by the Aga Khan, has made headlines after fetching an astonishing US$9 million at a recent auction in Geneva, solidifying its status as the world’s most expensive green gemstone. This remarkable sale took place at Christie’s, where the exquisite piece was featured as part of a dazzling Cartier diamond and emerald brooch, which can also be worn as a pendant.
This extraordinary emerald has a rich history, having been commissioned by Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan in 1960. He entrusted Cartier to create a brooch adorned with 20 marquise-cut diamonds for British socialite Nina Dyer, to whom he was briefly married. The emerald later made its way to auction in 1969 when Dyer sold it to support animal welfare initiatives, coincidentally during Christie’s inaugural auction in Switzerland on the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva. Now, it has returned to Christie’s for their 110th edition, capturing the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Max Fawcett, Christie’s EMEA Head of Jewellery, emphasized the rarity of such high-quality emeralds, stating, “Emeralds are hot right now, and this one ticks all the boxes. We might see an emerald of this quality come up for sale once every five or six years.” The previous record-holder for the most expensive emerald was a piece from Elizabeth Taylor’s collection that sold for US$6.5 million, showcasing just how significant this recent sale is.
The emerald’s journey continued as it was acquired by renowned jeweller Van Cleef & Arpels before eventually passing into the hands of Harry Winston, famously known as the “King of Diamonds.” This illustrious provenance adds to its allure and value, making it a coveted piece among collectors.
As interest in luxury gemstones continues to rise, this record-breaking sale highlights not only the beauty and desirability of emeralds but also the enduring legacy of exquisite craftsmanship that defines high-end jewelry.
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