The Jewelry Celebrities Wear: From Affordable to Extravagant
Jewelry has always been a language of glamour, power, and personal identity in Hollywood and beyond.
From breathtaking diamond necklaces worth tens of millions to a $20 pair of earrings from Zara, celebrities prove that sparkle comes in many forms. Some stars lean into red-carpet opulence, while others delight fans by mixing affordable finds with priceless heirlooms.
This article explores both sides of the spectrum: the world’s most extravagant celebrity jewels and the surprising cases where A-listers opted for budget-friendly, accessible jewelry.
Here’s a look at the most extravagant jewelry ever worn by celebrities on red carpets, followed by the surprisingly affordable pieces that made just as big an impact.
The World’s Most Expensive Celebrity Jewelry Moments
Lady Gaga – The $30 Million Tiffany Diamond
At the 2019 Academy Awards, Lady Gaga stunned the world in a black Alexander McQueen gown paired with the legendary 128.54-carat Tiffany Diamond.
Valued at $30 million, this canary-yellow diamond has been worn by only three women in history, including Audrey Hepburn. Gaga’s styling was a masterclass in cinematic glamour, instantly making headlines across the globe.
"For the Oscars, @tiffanyandco offered to go into their vault and let me wear their iconic, 141-year-old Tiffany diamond. The last person to wear this was Audrey Hepburn while promoting Breakfast at Tiffany’s. It was an honor to wear it and made my unforgettable night even more special", Lady Gaga wrote on Instagram.
Isha Ambani – Cartier’s Record-Breaking 481-Carat Necklace
At the 2025 Met Gala, Isha Ambani arrived in what is now considered the most expensive red-carpet jewel ever worn: a Cartier necklace featuring 481.42 carats of diamonds, anchored by an 80.73-carat cushion-cut stone.
The piece embodied the merger of cultural heritage and modern couture, setting a new standard for celebrity jewelry.
Madonna – Harry Winston at the 1991 Oscars
Madonna’s Marilyn Monroe-inspired Oscars appearance remains iconic—not just for her “Like a Virgin” theatrics but for the $20 million in Harry Winston diamonds draped around her neck.
This moment cemented her reputation as both a pop provocateur and a fashion icon who understood the performative power of jewels.
Helen Mirren – $5.9 Million of Sapphires and Diamonds
At the 2018 Academy Awards, Dame Helen Mirren redefined “statement jewelry” with a sapphire and diamond necklace paired with matching earrings, valued at nearly $6 million.
Understated yet opulent, her jewels became one of the most talked-about fashion details of the evening.
Rihanna – Diamonds Worth $25 Million at the Met Gala
Rihanna is no stranger to bold jewelry, but her 2023 Met Gala look set new records: layered Chopard and Cartier diamond suites worth over $25 million. Rihanna’s fearless fashion has long blurred the lines between couture and jewelry-as-performance-art, and this was no exception.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas – Bulgari High Jewelry
At the same event, Priyanka Chopra Jonas wore a spectacular Bulgari necklace featuring a 90-carat diamond at its center. Paired with diamonds worth more than $25 million, Chopra proved that jewelry can be just as much a protagonist on the red carpet as couture gowns.
Gigi Hadid – Jacob & Co.’s $12 Million Diamond Necklace
In 2021, Gigi Hadid turned heads at the Met Gala with a 118-carat Jacob & Co. necklace, valued at $12 million. The necklace, draped against her strapless gown, highlighted the ongoing partnership between supermodels and extravagant jeweler showpieces.
Dua Lipa – Tiffany’s Legendary Diamond Necklace
Dua Lipa joined the exclusive Tiffany club in 2023 when she wore the brand’s 106-carat Legendary Diamond Necklace, estimated at $10 million. For a rising star to wear such a historic jewel underscored Tiffany & Co.’s ongoing dominance in Hollywood jewelry narratives.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan – 500-Carat Ruby Necklace at Cannes
At Cannes 2025, Aishwarya Rai wore a 500-carat ruby necklace, a piece that embodied Indian regal grandeur while simultaneously becoming one of the most valuable jewels ever seen on the Croisette. Rai’s jewelry reminded the world that Cannes is as much about diamonds as cinema.
Beyoncé – Lorraine Schwartz Diamonds
From Super Bowl halftime shows to Met Galas, Beyoncé consistently partners with jeweler Lorraine Schwartz. Her emerald-cut diamond ring and layered diamond necklaces are often valued in the tens of millions, reinforcing her status as music royalty.
Charlize Theron – Chopard “Queen of Kalahari” Earrings
At the 2017 Cannes Film Festival, Charlize Theron stunned in earrings from Chopard’s “Queen of Kalahari” collection. The diamonds, recut from a rare 342-carat rough stone, included flawless D-color IIA gems over 20 carats each.
Kim Kardashian – 20-Carat Lorraine Schwartz Ring
Kim Kardashian’s engagement ring, designed by Lorraine Schwartz, featured a flawless 20-carat emerald-cut diamond set in platinum. Valued at around $4 million, it became infamous after being stolen during the Paris robbery in 2016.
Nicole Kidman – Cartier Diamond Necklace
At the 2008 Academy Awards, Nicole Kidman wore an extraordinary Cartier necklace composed of more than 7,500 diamonds totaling 1,400 carats. Estimated at $7 million, it remains one of the most extravagant jewelry statements in Oscar history.
Elizabeth Taylor – The Taylor-Burton Diamond
Elizabeth Taylor’s legendary collection included the Taylor-Burton Diamond, a 69.42-carat pear-shaped diamond mounted in a Cartier necklace. Valued at approximately $23 million, it epitomizes the unmatched glamour and grandeur of Hollywood’s golden age.
Cate Blanchett – $18 Million Chopard Necklace
At the 2014 Academy Awards, Cate Blanchett wore an opal and diamond necklace by Chopard, valued at around $18 million. The piece became iconic for its unusual choice of opals on the Oscars red carpet.
Anne Hathaway – $10 Million Tiffany Diamond Necklace
At the 2011 Academy Awards, Hathaway dazzled in a 94-carat Tiffany & Co. necklace featuring rare pink and white diamonds, estimated at $10 million.
Sofia Vergara – $7 Million Lorraine Schwartz Emeralds
At the 2013 Emmys, Sofia Vergara wore 161 carats of Colombian emeralds set by Lorraine Schwartz, valued at $7 million, making it one of TV’s most extravagant jewelry moments.
Angelina Jolie – $2.5 Million Lorraine Schwartz Emerald Earrings
At the 2009 Academy Awards, Jolie’s 115-carat Colombian emerald drop earrings by Lorraine Schwartz stole the show, valued at $2.5 million.
Jennifer Lopez – $5 Million Harry Winston Diamonds
At the 2011 Academy Awards, Jennifer Lopez wore a Harry Winston diamond bracelet and earrings set valued at around $5 million, adding old-Hollywood sparkle to her modern gown.
Amy Adams – $3.5 Million Cartier Necklace
At the 2014 Golden Globes, Adams wore a Cartier platinum and diamond necklace valued at $3.5 million, complementing her classic gown with vintage glamour.
Scarlett Johansson – $2.1 Million Bulgari Necklace
At the 2020 Academy Awards, Scarlett Johansson wore a Bulgari High Jewelry diamond necklace estimated at $2.1 million, giving a futuristic edge to her champagne satin dress.
Zendaya – $6 Million Bulgari Emerald Necklace
At the 2021 Oscars, Zendaya wowed in a bold yellow Valentino gown paired with a Bulgari emerald and diamond necklace worth $6 million, proving her status as a modern style leader.
Celebrities Who Wear Surprisingly Affordable Jewelry
But not all sparkle needs to cost millions. While some stars dazzle in historic diamonds, others prove that style can be just as powerful when it’s simple and accessible.
These affordable jewelry choices show how A-listers connect with fans by mixing everyday pieces with couture looks.
Kate Middleton – Zara and Accessorize Pieces Under $50
Despite access to royal jewels, the Princess of Wales often opts for high-street pieces. From $35 Zara earrings to Accessorize designs under $50, she proves that elegance doesn’t always come with a hefty price tag.
Meghan Markle – Affordable Banana Republic Jewelry
Before joining the royal family, Meghan Markle frequently wore Banana Republic jewelry on red carpets. Even now, she occasionally mixes affordable brands with luxury, balancing accessibility and refinement.
Emma Watson – Eco-Friendly Jewelry Under $100
Emma Watson is a strong advocate of sustainable fashion. She has been seen wearing fair-trade and recycled-material jewelry priced under $100, aligning her red-carpet looks with her environmental values.
Zendaya – $35 Hoops from Claire’s
Though often dressed in Bulgari, Zendaya has also worn oversized hoop earrings from Claire’s, costing under $35. This mix of high fashion and youthful accessibility cements her reputation as a versatile style icon.
Gigi Hadid – Affordable Gold-Plated Chains
While she dazzles in million-dollar diamonds at events, Gigi Hadid has been spotted off-duty in gold-plated chains and charm necklaces retailing for under $100—proof that supermodels also embrace casual, affordable trends.
Hailey Bieber – Jennifer Fisher “Mini Hoops”
Hailey Bieber is often photographed wearing Jennifer Fisher’s small hoop earrings, priced at around $150. While not cheap, they’re highly accessible compared to the diamonds she sports on red carpets.
Bella Hadid – Streetwear Jewelry Under $50
Bella Hadid is known to mix streetwear brands with couture. She’s been spotted wearing resin rings and Y2K-inspired beads under $50, making them instant sell-outs among her fans.
Rihanna – Affordable Gold-Plated Anklets
Even Rihanna, queen of extravagance, has been seen wearing simple anklets and chains priced under $100 when off-duty, showing that style doesn’t have to cost millions.
Billie Eilish – Beaded and DIY Jewelry
Billie Eilish often wears custom beaded and DIY-inspired jewelry, many of which are valued under $50. Her playful choices resonate with Gen Z fans who replicate the look affordably.
Blake Lively – Jewelry From BaubleBar
Although she often partners with Lorraine Schwartz for red carpets, Blake has been spotted wearing BaubleBar earrings and bracelets under $50, showing her playful side.
Kendall Jenner – Mejuri Everyday Pieces
Kendall Jenner balances her Cartier bracelets with everyday Mejuri rings and earrings, many priced under $200—widely accessible compared to her haute joaillerie looks.
Miley Cyrus – Funky Costume Jewelry
Miley embraces bold, quirky costume jewelry. She’s been photographed with neon resin rings and plastic chokers, often costing less than $30, making her looks easily replicable.
Selena Gomez – Affordable Hoop Earrings
Selena mixes affordable hoops from brands like H&M (under $20) with luxury gowns, reminding fans that glamour can be budget-friendly.
Jessica Alba – Ethical Jewelry Brands
Jessica Alba, known for her eco-conscious lifestyle, often chooses small independent brands that retail under $100, supporting sustainability and accessibility.
Kristen Stewart – Punk-Inspired Chains
On casual outings, Kristen Stewart wears grungy stainless-steel chains and lock pendants from skate-inspired labels, often priced under $40.
Lupita Nyong’o – African Beadwork
Lupita frequently incorporates traditional African bead jewelry, often handmade and costing under $100, blending cultural pride with affordable style.
Kylie Jenner – Fun Fast-Fashion Accessories
While she has one of the largest diamond collections in Hollywood, Kylie is also known to wear $20 chokers and layered necklaces from fast-fashion brands in candid street looks.
Jennifer Lawrence – Understated Earrings
Jennifer Lawrence has been photographed at public events wearing delicate studs and hoops from brands like Catbird NYC, many priced around $100–$150.
Taylor Swift – Dainty Etsy Jewelry
Taylor Swift often supports independent artisans by wearing dainty necklaces and rings sourced from Etsy, some costing as little as $40.
Sarah Jessica Parker – Vintage Costume Jewelry
A lifelong jewelry lover, Sarah Jessica Parker frequently incorporates vintage costume jewelry into her looks. Many of these pieces cost only a few hundred dollars but carry immense style impact.
Sarah Jessica Parker / Instagram
Why This Contrast Matters
The duality of celebrity jewelry—from multi-million-dollar diamonds to under-$50 earrings—illustrates how jewelry operates on two levels:
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As status: Communicating wealth, power, and Hollywood dominance.
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As accessibility: Connecting stars with their fans by showing that style doesn’t always require a fortune.
In both cases, jewelry remains a cultural language, one that tells stories of ambition, artistry, and personal identity.
Just as celebrities mix luxury with accessibility, DSF Antique Jewelry curates rare pieces that embody both artistry and history—inviting you to find jewels that tell your story.
FAQ: Celebrity Jewelry Insights
Who wore the most expensive jewelry on a red carpet?
Lady Gaga’s $30 million Tiffany Diamond at the 2019 Oscars remains one of the priciest jewelry moments in history.
Do celebrities own the jewelry they wear at events?
Most high-value pieces are loaned by jewelry houses (like Cartier, Tiffany & Co., or Harry Winston) for publicity and returned after the event.
Which celebrity is most famous for their jewelry collection?
Elizabeth Taylor is legendary for her private jewelry collection, which included the Taylor-Burton Diamond and the La Peregrina Pearl.
Do celebrities really wear affordable jewelry?
Yes. From Kate Middleton’s $35 Zara earrings to Selena Gomez’s H&M hoops, many A-listers occasionally choose budget-friendly pieces.
Why does celebrity jewelry matter for fashion?
Red carpet jewelry sets global style trends, influences bridal and fashion jewelry markets, and blends culture with luxury branding.
Why do affordable jewelry choices by celebrities attract so much attention?
Because they make stars feel more relatable. When Kate Middleton wears $35 Zara earrings or Zendaya rocks hoops from Claire’s, it proves that style doesn’t always require millions—and these pieces often sell out overnight.
Do celebrities actually buy the expensive jewelry they wear?
Rarely. While stars like Elizabeth Taylor invested in personal collections, most modern red-carpet jewels are strategic loans. They showcase a jeweler’s craftsmanship while giving the celebrity global visibility.
Which jeweler works most with celebrities?
Brands like Lorraine Schwartz, Harry Winston, Cartier, Bulgari, and Tiffany & Co. dominate red carpets, with Lorraine Schwartz being a favorite among Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, and other A-listers.
