The Met Gala, fashion’s biggest night out, isn’t just about the incredible couture gowns that sweep the red carpet. Oh no, it’s also a dazzling spectacle of high-octane glamour, where celebrities don some of the most extraordinary and eye-wateringly expensive pieces of jewelry and fashion the world has ever seen. We’re talking about items that don’t just complete an outfit; they *are* the statement, often worth millions and carrying stories as rich as their carats.
Every year, as the stars ascend those iconic steps, they’re not just showcasing their impeccable style but also presenting museum-worthy treasures. From diamonds that shimmer with historical weight to avant-garde creations that push the boundaries of what’s possible, these aren’t your average accessories. They are truly valuable artifacts, each with its own incredible tale of design, provenance, and mind-blowing price tag, transforming the red carpet into a high-stakes exhibition of unparalleled luxury.
So, buckle up, fashion fanatics and gem enthusiasts! We’re diving deep into the glittering archives to bring you a sensational rundown of the most valuable items spotted at the Met Gala. Get ready to have your jaws dropped and your minds blown as we unveil the first half of these unforgettable sartorial and jewel-encrusted marvels that truly redefined red carpet luxury, cementing their places in pop culture and fashion history.
1. **Priyanka Chopra’s Bulgari Laguna Blu Diamond Necklace (2023)**Priyanka Chopra Jonas truly stole the show at the 2023 Met Gala, not just with her stunning ensemble but with a piece of jewelry that made history, a fact that resonated across every fashion and jewelry aficionado’s radar. She graced the red carpet wearing the spectacularly rare Bulgari Laguna Blu diamond, an exquisite 11.16-carat pear-shaped blue diamond that is absolutely breathtaking. This gem isn’t just beautiful; it’s a testament to the kind of unique luxury that only a night like the Met Gala can bring to light, captivating onlookers with its vivid aquamarine hue and distinctive droplet shape.
The Laguna Blu diamond had a story that went beyond its momentary red carpet sparkle, adding layers of intrigue to its already remarkable presence. It was worn by the actor, who is also a Bulgari ambassador, ahead of being auctioned at Sotheby’s in Geneva just a few days later. This strategic display elevated its profile, turning its Met Gala appearance into an exclusive, glittering preview before it went on to fetch an astonishing price, further cementing its legendary status in the world of haute joaillerie.
Indeed, when it finally went under the hammer, this mesmerising gem sold for over $25 million, making it unequivocally one of the most expensive jewels ever to have been worn at the Met Gala. Its journey from a precious stone to a stunning necklace, and then to a record-breaking auction item, showcases the incredible journey of these iconic pieces. It stands as a crown jewel in Bulgari’s Roman collection, a true marvel of nature and craftsmanship that captured the world’s attention.
Imagine the collective gasp as this gem, once a ring centrepiece, glittered on one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars, seamlessly blending ancient allure with contemporary celebrity wattage. Priyanka’s undeniable ability to carry such a significant piece with grace and confidence only added to its allure, underscoring the magic that happens when extraordinary talent meets extraordinary treasure. It’s no wonder this moment is etched in Met Gala history, a beacon of unparalleled extravagance.
2. **Lady Gaga’s Tiffany Diamond Necklace (2019)**Talk about a showstopper! Lady Gaga absolutely owned the 2019 Met Gala, embodying the event’s “Camp: Notes on Fashion” theme with a series of dramatic reveals that captivated every camera. But among her incredible outfits, one accessory stood out as a monumental piece of jewelry history: the iconic ‘Tiffany Diamond.’ This isn’t just any diamond; it’s one of the most expensive and revered pieces ever crafted, truly a legend in its own right, known for its unparalleled beauty and rarity.
The Tiffany Diamond itself is a colossal 128.54-carat yellow diamond, a breathtaking marvel that has only been worn by a select few, including Audrey Hepburn and Beyoncé, placing Gaga in truly exclusive company. Charles Lewis Tiffany, the visionary founder of the storied jeweller, first acquired this magnificent stone way back in 1878. He then had it set as the dazzling centrepiece for a huge Tiffany & Co. necklace, making it an instant legend that has captivated audiences for over a century with its extraordinary brilliance.
Lady Gaga’s decision to wear this historical gem was a powerful nod to both fashion heritage and unparalleled luxury, perfectly encapsulating the theme’s spirit of exaggerated artistry. It’s a piece that transcends mere adornment, representing an extraordinary legacy of craftsmanship and rarity that very few pieces can rival. Her Met Gala appearance with the Tiffany Diamond solidified its place in pop culture, allowing a new generation to appreciate the grandeur and artistry of such an extraordinary, priceless treasure, illuminating its history for millions to see.
The sheer weight and radiant yellow hue of the diamond ensured it was a focal point, drawing eyes to its intricate facets and storied past. Its presence on the red carpet under the bright lights of the Met Gala was a moment of pure spectacle, a testament to the diamond’s enduring allure and Tiffany & Co.’s legacy of sourcing the world’s most exquisite gems. Gaga wore it with a theatrical flair that only she could muster, making it an unforgettable highlight of an already iconic night.
3. **Jennifer Lopez’s Harry Winston Diamond Necklace (2019)**Jennifer Lopez, ever the queen of glam, lit up the 2019 Met Gala with bling that would genuinely make anyone’s jaw drop, showcasing her commitment to show-stopping luxury. For an evening themed “Camp: Notes on Fashion,” J.Lo adorned herself with a sequined Versace fringed gown, a sartorial masterpiece in itself. However, it was her Harry Winston jewels that truly brought the fireworks, adding an undeniable sparkle that amplified her already vibrant presence on the red carpet.
She rocked a monumental 129-carat Harry Winston diamond necklace, featuring a show-stopping purple sapphire that commanded attention with its rare and vibrant hue. But she didn’t stop there; her ensemble was further elevated by chandelier earrings dripping in diamonds and bracelets boasting an additional 120 carats of brilliance. The sheer volume and impeccable quality of these gems made it an absolutely unforgettable moment, a masterclass in maximalist glamour perfectly suited to the Met Gala’s “Camp” theme.
This extravagant display of diamonds and precious stones wasn’t just about the flash; it was a carefully curated collection that demonstrated the pinnacle of high jewelry design and value. The “Purple Dragon Necklace,” as it was known, with its incredible lavender-hued central sapphire and almost 65 carats of additional white diamonds, illustrated a level of bespoke craftsmanship and material rarity that is truly exceptional.
The total estimated value of Jennifer Lopez’s Harry Winston collection that night was an astounding USD $8.8 million (which, for our Australian friends, translated to AUD $13.6 million). This incredible price tag underscores the rarity and prestige of the stones she wore, making her 2019 Met Gala appearance one of the most expensive and visually stunning jewelry moments in the event’s history. J.Lo truly brought the sparkle and then some, defining what it means to be a jewelry icon.
4. **Jennifer Lopez’s Tiffany & Co. Necklace (2024)**It seems J.Lo just can’t get enough of dazzling us with incredibly valuable jewels at the Met Gala, consistently raising the bar for red carpet extravagance! “Jenny from the Block” made yet another unforgettable statement at the 2024 Met Gala, captivating everyone in a sheer gown adorned with cascading rhinestones and silver pearls. While her dress was a shimmering masterpiece, it was the show-stopping Tiffany & Co. necklace that truly defined her look and solidified her reign as a Met Gala jewelry queen.
This breathtaking piece was crafted in exquisite 18-carat yellow gold, featuring a stunning diamond centerpiece of over 20 carats, a central stone designed to draw every eye. And if that wasn’t enough to make jaws drop, the necklace boasted additional diamonds totaling over 75 carats, all hailing from the exclusive Blue Book 2024: Tiffany Céleste Collection. It was a symphony of sparkle, meticulously designed to highlight the grandeur of the evening and the theme “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” ensuring maximum impact and elegance.
The sheer magnificence and rarity of these diamonds meant a truly extraordinary value, positioning this piece among the most coveted and precious adornments ever to grace the Met Gala. This stunning Tiffany & Co. necklace was valued at a cool USD $8,750,000 (AUD $13,267,023), proving once again that J.Lo consistently brings some of the most expensive and iconic jewelry pieces to fashion’s biggest night. Her choice not only perfectly complemented her ethereal gown but also underscored the enduring allure of high jewelry at the Met Gala.
This particular necklace, with its combination of a substantial central diamond and surrounding stones, showcased Tiffany’s prowess in creating pieces that are both timeless and incredibly modern. It was a bold declaration of luxury, reflecting J.Lo’s confident and powerful presence in the entertainment and fashion worlds. Her appearance was a vivid reminder that the Met Gala is not just about fashion, but about the art of adornment at its most opulent, a true visual feast for enthusiasts worldwide.
5. **Dua Lipa’s Tiffany & Co. Lucida Star Diamond Necklace (2023)**Dua Lipa graced the 2023 Met Gala with an air of sophisticated elegance, paying homage to the late Karl Lagerfeld in an archival Chanel dress, a respectful and stunning choice. While her vintage couture was a beautiful tribute to a fashion legend, it was her neck that held a true masterpiece of diamond artistry, instantly becoming one of the night’s most talked-about accessories. She adorned herself with an absolutely stunning Tiffany & Co. diamond necklace, featuring the iconic Lucida Star diamond.
This isn’t just any sparkle; the Lucida Star diamond necklace is valued at over USD $10 million (AUD $15.4 million), making it one of the night’s most valuable treasures and a true highlight of the Met Gala’s jewelry moments. The piece showcases a central stone, famously known as the ‘Legendary’ diamond, which tips the scales at over 100 carats and boasts an impressive 82 facets. Imagine the brilliance and intricate craftsmanship required to achieve such a dazzling effect!
The particular cushion shape of the Lucida Star is also modelled after the infamous yellow Tiffany Diamond, a storied gem previously worn by other A-listers like Audrey Hepburn, Lady Gaga, and Beyoncé. This connection to such an illustrious lineage of iconic women and legendary diamonds only amplified the necklace’s significance and allure, embedding Dua Lipa’s moment into the annals of jewelry history.
By choosing such a significant piece, Dua Lipa didn’t just wear jewelry; she became part of a legacy of iconic women celebrating the pinnacle of diamond artistry and luxury. Her decision to pair this modern marvel with an archival Chanel gown spoke volumes about blending historical reverence with contemporary glamour. It was a moment of true fashion and jewelry synergy, where every facet of the diamond, and indeed her entire look, told a story of enduring elegance and unparalleled value.
6. **Rihanna’s Vintage Cartier Crucifix (2018)**When Rihanna co-chaired the 2018 Met Gala, themed “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” she truly took us to church with her sartorial choices, delivering a look that became instantly legendary. While her John Galliano papal-inspired ensemble was a masterpiece of couture, it was the breathtaking accessory she chose that perfectly encapsulated the theme and cemented her status as a red carpet icon: a magnificent vintage Cartier crucifix.
This wasn’t some modern replica or a simple contemporary design; this was a piece steeped in genuine history, dating all the way back to 1934, giving it an incredible sense of provenance. It was a true vintage Cartier masterpiece, meticulously crafted in both gold and silver, and absolutely dripping in a rich array of precious jewels, including diamonds, rubies, pearls, sapphires, opals, and topaz. The intricate detailing and the sheer number of precious stones made it an undeniably valuable and historically significant item.
A stunning addition to the crucifix was the ‘dove of the Holy Spirit’ motif, which was later added in 1949, featuring exquisite gold, diamonds, and a star sapphire. This layered history added depth and meaning to the already powerful piece, making it a profound symbol of the evening’s theme. Rihanna’s decision to wear such an authentic and powerful piece of jewelry demonstrated her deep understanding of the theme and her unparalleled ability to merge fashion with profound cultural and historical references.
Her look, complete with the vintage Cartier crucifix, was more than just an outfit; it was a performance, a narrative brought to life on the red carpet. The rich tapestry of gems and metals, combined with its historical weight, made it a true centerpiece, drawing gasps and admiration from onlookers. It was a divine moment in Met Gala history, truly unparalleled in its splendor and value, showcasing how an accessory can become an unforgettable work of art.
Alright, fashion fanatics and jewelry lovers, are you ready for more? Because we’re not done yet! We’ve already had our minds blown by some seriously dazzling Met Gala moments, but trust us, there are even more show-stopping treasures waiting in the wings. Get ready to dive back into the archives for another round of unparalleled luxury and iconic celebrity sparkle.
This next batch of valuable items truly solidifies the Met Gala’s reputation as the ultimate stage for fashion and, let’s be real, some of the most expensive bling you’ll ever see. From regal jewels with a royal pedigree to cutting-edge ethical luxury, these pieces aren’t just accessories; they’re conversation starters, history makers, and total showstoppers. So, let’s keep this glittering journey going, because the Met Gala never ceases to amaze!
7. **Anne Hathaway’s Bulgari Cosmic Vault Necklace (2025)**Talk about making an entrance! Anne Hathaway absolutely shut down the 2025 Met Gala red carpet, pairing a sharp white button-down shirt with a breathtakingly rare sapphire and diamond necklace from Bulgari that genuinely stole every spotlight. This wasn’t just any necklace; it was Bulgari’s ‘Cosmic Vault’ necklace, making its grand debut on fashion’s biggest night.
This high jewelry showpiece is centered around an absolutely colossal 123.35-carat sugarloaf sapphire. Yes, you read that right – 123.35 carats! Surrounded by an intricate constellation of additional sapphires and diamonds, it truly embodies a lesson in restraint while delivering maximum impact. The sheer size and vivid blue hue of that central sapphire were nothing short of mesmerizing.
Bulgari, knowing exactly how to make a splash, chose the Met Gala to unveil this latest high jewelry collection, and who better to showcase such a masterpiece than their global ambassador, Anne Hathaway? Her choice to pair such a magnificent, opulent piece with a seemingly simple Carolina Herrera shirt was pure genius, creating a look that was both sophisticated and utterly unforgettable.
It’s moments like these that redefine red carpet luxury, where the jewelry isn’t just an accompaniment but the undeniable star of the show. Hathaway’s elegant presentation of the ‘Cosmic Vault’ necklace proved that sometimes, less *is* more when you’re rocking one of the most magnificent sapphires the world has ever seen. Pure, unadulterated glamour!
8. **Blake Lively’s Lorraine Schwartz Diadem & Earrings (2022)**Oh, snap! Blake Lively, who consistently delivers iconic Met Gala moments, truly outdid herself at the 2022 event with an ensemble that paid tribute to Gilded Age New York. Her layered Atelier Versace gown was a stunning work of art, but it was her jewelry, especially that show-stopping diadem, that cemented her look in Met Gala history.
The absolute highlight was her bespoke Lorraine Schwartz tiara, an exquisite piece designed as a direct nod to the iconic Statue of Liberty. Can you imagine the intricate craftsmanship? This dazzling diadem featured 25 stones, specifically placed to echo the 25 windows in Lady Liberty’s crown, bringing a piece of New York’s heritage right to the red carpet.
But the sparkle didn’t stop there! Lively’s look was further amplified by a magnificent pair of diamond and Colombian emerald chandelier earrings, also courtesy of Lorraine Schwartz. These pieces added a vibrant pop of color and an extra layer of opulent glitter, perfectly complementing the copper and aqua hues of her transforming gown.
Her entire look was a meticulously curated masterpiece, blending fashion, history, and unparalleled luxury. The diadem, in particular, was a conversation starter, showcasing how jewelry can be both a stunning adornment and a profound symbolic statement. Blake Lively truly shone, transforming into a walking, breathing monument to American glamour.
9. **Princess Diana’s Sapphire and Diamond Cluster Necklace (1996)**Hold up, we’re taking a trip down memory lane for this one! Long before Instagram, Princess Diana graced the 1996 Met Gala, bringing a touch of genuine royal sparkle that fans still obsess over. Her Met Gala debut was memorable not just for her stunning navy Dior gown, but for the regal jewels she chose to wear.
She sported a magnificent sapphire and diamond cluster necklace, a piece with an incredible backstory. Originally a gift from the Queen Mother back in 1981, this precious item had once been a brooch. But in true Diana fashion, she had it ingeniously transformed into a breathtaking choker, adorned with elegant pearl-adorned chains specifically for the event.
Fans of the People’s Princess couldn’t help but notice the striking resemblance between this transformed necklace and her iconic sapphire engagement ring, which, as many know, is now famously worn by the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, since her engagement to Prince William in 2010. Talk about a legacy piece!
Diana’s choice to wear her own regal jewels, rather than simply borrowing a designer piece, made her Met Gala appearance incredibly personal and historically significant. It was a poignant display of her enduring style and connection to a lineage of timeless elegance, proving that some treasures are truly priceless and transcend eras.
10. **Rihanna’s Bulgari High Jewellery Necklace (2023)**Rihanna at the Met Gala? You know it’s going to be iconic, and 2023 was no exception! After dazzling us with her vintage Cartier crucifix in 2018, Riri returned to steal the show *again*, this time with a different, equally mesmerizing display of high jewelry, proving she’s truly the queen of Met Gala moments.
For the 2023 event, paying homage to the late Karl Lagerfeld, Rihanna stunned in a camellia-decked Valentino gown. But what truly amplified her look was the incredible Bulgari high jewelry she donned. We’re talking about a layered necklace, absolutely dripping with pear-shaped diamonds and lustrous pearls.
This particular Bulgari ensemble was a perfect tribute to Karl Lagerfeld, whose designs often featured oceanic gemstones, bringing a beautiful thematic resonance to her accessories. The combination of shimmering diamonds and elegant pearls created a dynamic and rich visual texture that perfectly complemented her opulent gown.
Her choice to accessorize with such a magnificent, multi-faceted Bulgari piece showcased her unparalleled ability to merge fashion with profound storytelling. Rihanna’s 2023 appearance was yet another masterclass in red carpet dressing, where every detail, especially her breathtaking jewelry, contributed to an unforgettable moment in pop culture and fashion history.
11. **Gigi Hadid’s Jacob & Co. Oversized Diamond Necklace (2021)**Gigi Hadid, a supermodel known for her effortless cool, brought serious sparkle to the 2021 Met Gala, taking her Jessica Rabbit-inspired Prada look to a whole new level of glam! While her red hair and sleek gown were certainly eye-catching, it was the show-stopping oversized diamond necklace that truly stole the show around her neck.
Courtesy of Jacob & Co., this wasn’t just any necklace; it was a bold, unapologetically luxurious statement piece designed to command attention. Imagine the sheer brilliance of an oversized diamond necklace catching the light with every move—it added an incredible dimension of high-octane glamour to her already stunning ensemble.
In the world of the Met Gala, where every detail is meticulously planned for maximum impact, an item like this Jacob & Co. necklace is key. It transforms a beautiful outfit into an unforgettable fashion moment, showcasing the kind of extravagant luxury that defines fashion’s biggest night out. This necklace wasn’t subtle, and that’s exactly why it worked so brilliantly!
It perfectly embodied the “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion” theme by celebrating the audacious spirit of American style. Gigi’s powerful yet elegant presence, combined with the dazzling radiance of such an impressive diamond piece, created a truly iconic red-carpet image that lingered long after the night was over.
12. **Michaela Coel’s Emefa Cole Jewellery (2023)**Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about Michaela Coel, who absolutely dazzled as a co-chair at the 2023 Met Gala, making a statement that was both breathtakingly beautiful and incredibly thoughtful! While her gown, adorned with a whopping 130,000 crystals, was a spectacle in itself, her unique jewelry deserves a standing ovation.
She opted for an incredible set of jewels by London designer Emefa Cole, featuring an ornate diamond-and-gold necklace, chunky gold pendant earrings, and several rings. These pieces weren’t just stunning; they represented a new era of luxury, blending high fashion with a profound commitment to ethical sourcing.
Here’s where it gets really cool: these single mine-origin gold pieces actually came with an innovative QR code! That’s right, fans could scan it and trace the gold content right back to its source. How amazing is that for transparency and conscious luxury? It added an extra layer of intrigue and significance to her already radiant look.
Coel’s ensemble, from the star-shaped accents and chain detailing on her gown to the anatomical gold heels, was a masterclass in unique, impactful styling. Her choice of Emefa Cole’s ethically sourced, ornate diamond-and-gold pieces underscored a powerful message about the future of fashion and jewelry, proving that true value comes from both beauty and integrity. It was a truly exceptional and forward-thinking Met Gala moment!
And there you have it, fashion trailblazers! We’ve journeyed through the glittering, diamond-encrusted halls of the Met Gala to uncover some of the most incredibly valuable and utterly unforgettable items ever to grace its iconic red carpet. From record-breaking diamonds to historically significant heirlooms, each piece tells a story of unparalleled luxury, meticulous craftsmanship, and the audacious spirit of celebrity style. These aren’t just accessories; they’re integral parts of fashion history, cementing their places in our minds and in the annals of pop culture forever. What a ride, right?
