In the dazzling world of celebrity culture, the red carpet serves not just as a mere paparazzi-lined pathway to events but as a grand stage for fashion’s most opulent displays. From the Oscars to the Met Gala, each event is a spectacle of style where celebrities arrive in their finest attire, complemented by the most expensive red carpet jewellery. These glamorous events offer more than just a glimpse into the personal styles of the stars; they set benchmarks and become significant points of publicity, capturing the world’s attention.
The virality of these events is magnified by celebrities who adorn themselves with jewels worth more than the GDP of some small countries. Each piece of jewellery tells a story, be it of heritage, craftsmanship, or sheer extravagance, making these accessories far more than just decorative items. They are symbols of status, investments, and, at times, pieces of art that hold the gaze of millions. Ahead of the 2024 Met Gala taking place on May 6, we shine a light on those who truly sparkle on the red carpet.
Looking at the most expensive red carpet jewellery
Madonna at the 1991 Oscars
Madonna 1991 The Academy Awards (Oscars) “Sooner Or Later” performance. Photography by Philip B. Ramey.
Thanks to OTCOAM.#Madonna #soonerorlater pic.twitter.com/KzEjx4Q7fW— Madonna Nation ❌ (@MadonnaNationX) November 17, 2021
- Price: Over USD 20 million
Madonna, a veritable pop culture icon, made a striking appearance at the 1991 Oscars, drenched in a collection of Harry Winston diamonds valued at over USD 20 million. This choice was not just a nod to luxury but a clever establishment of her eclectic personal style. Her necklace, a cascade of diamonds, perfectly complemented her satin gown designed by Bob Mackie, known for his flamboyant and intricately embellished designs that became synonymous with Madonna’s bold persona.
This jewellery set didn’t just serve 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 brilliance of the diamonds mirrored the flashbulbs of the paparazzi — a reminder of the spectacle that is Hollywood glam. Such pieces highlight the intersection of celebrity culture and high fashion, illustrating how style choices on the red carpet can define milestones in a celebrity’s career, because this moment can easily be considered as a pop culture classic.
Lady Gaga at the 2019 Oscars
- Price: Approximately USD 30 million
Lady Gaga, often known for her unique and boundary-pushing fashion choices, chose the 2019 Oscars to showcase a more traditional style of glamour with a stunning, cushion-cut, yellow Tiffany diamond that had not been worn for over half a century. Valued at approximately USD 30 million, this diamond is one of the largest yellow diamonds in the world and carries a rich history, having been 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 distinctly Gaga — pairing it with a black Alexander McQueen dress and opera gloves. Not only did she channel old-world glam with a contemporary, modern aesthetic, but her diamond’s massive size and its glow made her one of the most watched and talked-about celebrities at the event. This appearance not only underscored her status as a fashion icon but also as a figure who respects and revives historical luxury, adding a layer of storytelling to her red-carpet look.
Charlize Theron at the 2014 Oscars
Charlize Theron’s choice of jewellery at the 2013 Oscars perfectly encapsulated a mix of simplicity and opulence. She wore a pair of diamond bracelets and earrings worth USD 15 million, designed by Harry Winston. These pieces were distinguished by their flawless craftsmanship and the sheer brilliance of the diamonds used.
The jewellery complemented her blink-and-you-miss-it strappy black Dior haute couture gown, creating a look that was both modern and timeless. The diamonds added just the right amount of sparkle to her minimalist outfit, emphasising the powerful presence she brings to the red carpet. Never one to disappoint on the sartorial front, Theron has a penchant for blending her personal style with the dramatic requirements of Hollywood’s biggest night. For her 2013 Oscars outing as well, the Mad Max star chose USD 4.5 million worth emerald-cut diamond ear studs and bracelet.
Nicole Kidman at the 2008 Oscars
- Price: Over USD 7 million
At the 2008 Academy Awards, Nicole Kidman wore a stunning necklace that became one of the night’s most talked-about pieces. This exquisite jewel, valued at over USD 7 million, was crafted by L’Wren Scott and featured roughly 1,399 carats of rough and polished diamonds. The necklace draped elegantly over her black Balenciaga gown, which was itself a masterpiece of design simplicity, allowed the necklace to truly stand out as the centrepiece of her ensemble.
This piece not only exemplified luxury and opulence but also showcased the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its creation. The mix of diamonds provided a unique texture and brilliance, capturing and reflecting light with every movement.
K-pop Star Sana at Graff Ginza Main store event
sana is so stunning pic.twitter.com/kd0PurBFEK
— thinking about sana (@sanathinking) November 11, 2023
K-pop star Sana wore the most expensive jewellery set ever seen at a red carpet event, valued at an astonishing USD 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 colours of the set. The jewellery was custom-made by famed London-based jeweller Graff, known for its extravagant designs and impeccable craftsmanship.
Sana’s appearance was not only a significant fashion moment but also a cultural statement, showcasing the global influence of K-pop and its stars’ ability to command attention on the world stage. Her choice to wear such a high-value piece highlighted the luxury market’s expansion in Asia and the increasing importance of K-pop celebs in the global fashion arena.
Gigi Hadid at the 2021 Met Gala
Gigi Hadid’s 2021 Met Gala appearance was marked by her choice of an extraordinary Jacob & Co. diamond necklace, which featured a 54-carat diamond drop valued at USD 12 million. This piece exemplified modern jewellery design with its bold and elegant aesthetic. The necklace’s substantial single diamond drop was a focal point, drawing attention to Hadid’s striking features and complementing her sleek, ivory Prada gown.
This choice of jewellery spoke volumes about Hadid’s fashion-forward sensibilities. The look blended contemporary design and timeless elegance, making a clear statement on the Met Gala’s 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 chose a USD 12 million Lorraine Schwartz diamond necklace that featured 400 carats of round, pear, and marquise diamonds. This piece was not only one of the night’s most extravagant but it perfectly complemented her pregnancy announcement outfit designed by Peter Dundas.
Beyoncé’s choice to wear such an impactful piece on a night when she celebrated both her music and personal joy exemplified her knack for intertwining her personal narrative with her public appearances. Her ability to look both majestic while incorporating her own personal style made this one of the most unforgettable jewellery moments in Grammy history.
(Main image: Chris Pizello/AP; Featured image: Jason LeVeris/Getty Images)
Frequently Asked Questions
– How do celebrities acquire such expensive jewellery for red carpet events?
Celebrities often borrow these extravagant jewellery pieces from high-end brands or jewellery designers through arrangements that benefit both parties. Designers get global exposure, and celebrities enhance their red carpet looks without needing to purchase these incredibly expensive items.
– Why do celebrities choose to wear such expensive jewellery?
Wearing the most expensive red carpet jewellery serves multiple purposes for celebrities. It elevates their fashion status, distinguishes them from the crowd, and aligns them with luxury and exclusivity. It also helps generate media coverage and public interest, boosting their personal brand and the brands they endorse.
