The most expensive red carpet jewelry spotted on celebrities

In the dazzling world of celebrity culture, the red carpet serves not only as a paparazzi-lined route to events, but also as a grand stage for the most lavish fashion shows. From the Oscars to the Met Gala, each event is a spectacle of style with celebrities arriving in their finest attire, accessorized with the most expensive red carpet jewelry. These glamorous events offer more than just a glimpse into the stars’ personal style; they set standards and become major publicity points, capturing the world’s attention.

The virality of these events is increased by celebrities adorning themselves with jewelry worth more than the GDP of some small countries. Every piece of jewelry tells a story, whether it’s heritage, craftsmanship or pure extravagance, making these accessories much more than just decorative items. They are symbols of status, investments and sometimes works of art that attract the attention of millions of people. Ahead of the 2024 Met Gala taking place on May 6, we’re shining a light on those who really shine on the red carpet.

Looking at the most expensive red carpet jewelry

Madonna at the 1991 Oscars

• Price: More than 20 million dollars

A true pop culture icon, Madonna made a striking appearance at the 1991 Oscars, immersed in a collection of Harry Winston diamonds worth more than $20 million. This choice was not just a nod to luxury, but a smart expression of her eclectic personal style. Her necklace, a waterfall of diamonds, perfectly complemented her satin dress, designed by Bob Mackie, known for his flamboyant and intricately embellished designs that became synonymous with Madonna’s bold personality.

This jewelry set served not just as an accessory, but as a statement of Madonna’s enduring star power and the luxurious excess often associated with Hollywood’s golden nights. The sparkle of the diamonds reflected the paparazzi’s flashbulbs – a reminder of the spectacle that is Hollywood glamour. Such pieces highlight the intersection of celebrity culture and haute couture, illustrating how style choices on the red carpet can define milestones in a celebrity’s career, as the moment can easily be considered a pop culture classic.

Lady Gaga at the 2019 Oscars

• Price: About $30 million

Lady Gaga, often known for her unique and groundbreaking fashion choices, chose the 2019 Oscars to showcase a more traditional style of glamor with a stunning, cushion-cut yellow Tiffany diamond that hasn’t been seen in more than half a century. to behave. This diamond, worth approximately $30 million, is one of the largest yellow diamonds in the world and has a rich history. It was worn by Audrey Hepburn in 1961 during the promotion for Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Her decision to wear this iconic piece was a tribute to classic Hollywood, yet it was clearly Gaga – paired with a black Alexander McQueen dress and opera gloves. Not only did she channel old-world glamor with a contemporary, modern aesthetic, but the sheer size and shine of her diamond made her one of the most watched and talked-about celebrities at the event. This appearance not only underlined her status as a fashion icon, but also as a figure who respects and revives historic luxury, adding a layer of storytelling to her red carpet look.

Charlize Theron at the 2014 Oscars

Charlize Theron’s jewelry choice at the 2013 Oscars was a perfect blend of simplicity and opulence. She wore a pair of diamond bracelets and earrings worth $15 million designed by Harry Winston. These pieces were distinguished by their impeccable craftsmanship and the sheer brilliance of the diamonds used.

The jewelry complemented her black strappy haute couture Dior dress, creating a look that was both modern and timeless. The diamonds added just the right amount of sparkle to her minimalist outfit and emphasized the powerful presence she brings to the red carpet. Never one to disappoint sartorially, Theron has a penchant for blending her personal style with the dramatic demands of Hollywood’s biggest night. Also for her Oscar outing in 2013, the Crazy Max star opted for emerald-cut diamond stud earrings and bracelet worth $4.5 million.

Nicole Kidman at the 2008 Oscars

• Price: More than 7 million dollars

At the 2008 Academy Awards, Nicole Kidman wore a beautiful necklace that became one of the most talked-about pieces of the evening. This exquisite gem, worth more than $7 million, was crafted by L’Wren Scott and contained approximately 1,399 carats of rough and polished diamonds. Elegantly falling over her black Balenciaga dress, which in itself was a masterpiece of design simplicity, the necklace really made it stand out as the centerpiece of her ensemble.

This piece was not only an example of luxury and opulence, but also showcased the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its creation. The mix of diamonds created a unique texture and sparkle, capturing and reflecting light with every movement.

K-pop Star Sana at Graff Ginza’s main shopping event

K-pop star Sana wore the most expensive jewelry set ever seen at a red carpet event, worth a whopping $33 million. This spectacular set included a necklace and earrings featuring an array of rare pink and blue diamonds, set against white diamond accents that enhanced the vibrant colors of the set. The jewelry is custom made by renowned London jeweler Graff, known for his extravagant designs and impeccable craftsmanship.

Sana’s performance was not only a major fashion moment, but also a cultural statement, showcasing K-pop’s global influence and the ability of its stars to command attention on the world stage. Her choice to wear such a precious garment highlighted the expansion of the luxury market in Asia and the increasing importance of K-pop celebrities in the global fashion arena.

Gigi Hadid at the 2021 Met Gala

Gigi Hadid’s appearance at the 2021 Met Gala was marked by her choice of an extraordinary diamond necklace from Jacob & Co., featuring a 54-carat diamond drop worth $12 million. This piece was an example of modern jewelry design with its bold and elegant aesthetic. The necklace’s substantial single diamond drop was the center of attention, drawing attention to Hadid’s striking features and complementing her sleek, ivory Prada dress.

This choice of jewelry spoke volumes about Hadid’s fashion sensibility. The look combined contemporary design with timeless elegance and made a clear statement on the Met Gala red carpet. Gigi’s ability to carry such a prominent piece with such confidence spoke volumes about her status as a fashion influencer and model.

Beyoncé at the 2017 Grammys

Beyoncé graced the 2017 Grammy Awards in a look that screamed “goddess.” She opted for a $12 million Lorraine Schwartz diamond necklace featuring 400 carats of round, pear and marquise diamonds. Not only was this piece one of the most extravagant pieces of the evening, but it was also a perfect complement to her pregnancy announcement outfit, designed by Peter Dundas.

Beyoncé’s choice to wear such an impressive piece on a night where she celebrated both her music and her personal joy was an example of her talent for weaving her personal story with her public appearances. Her ability to look majestic while incorporating her own personal style made this one of the most unforgettable jewelry moments in Grammy history.

(Main image: Chris Pizello/AP; Featured image: Jason LeVeris/Getty Images)

Frequently Asked Questions

– How do celebrities get such expensive jewelry for red carpet events?

Celebrities often borrow these extravagant jewelry pieces from luxury brands or jewelry designers through mutually beneficial arrangements. Designers are gaining worldwide fame and celebrities are sprucing up their red carpet looks without having to buy these incredibly expensive items.

– Why do celebrities choose to wear such expensive jewelry?

Wearing the most expensive red carpet jewelry serves multiple purposes for celebrities. It elevates their fashion status, sets them apart from the crowd and aligns them with luxury and exclusivity. It also helps generate media attention and public interest, strengthening their personal brand and the brands they endorse.