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Chic and posh as they may now be, sunglasses don’t have a very stylish origin story. Their sole purpose, back when they were first created in 12th century China, was to shield one’s eyes from the harsh beating of the sun.
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Back then, they were made of smoked quartz — a primitive but effective material to obscure and block sunlight. There was no knowledge of SPF, UVA or UVB. All that was known, presumably, was, “Hey, the sun is really bright! Especially while marching through this blindingly white snow!”
Ah, how much has changed since then. Functionality is no longer the most important aspect of sunglasses — at least, not always.
Today, sunglasses are not only practical and healthy for your eyes — if they offer 100% UVA and UVB protection — they’re also a fashion statement and, in some cases, an incredible luxury.
Here’s a look at the most expensive sunglasses and what they cost. They range from $45,276 all the way up to over $400,000 for a single pair.
When one hears the name Bentley, they likely think of the classic automobile maker, who introduced their race cars in the1920s to wide acclaim and later teamed up — and then parted ways — with Rolls Royce.
Do these pricey sunglasses have any relation to the English luxury car maker? Indeed they do. Bentley Motors partnered with Estede to produce high-end eyewear in 2010. These particular sunglasses, made of pure platinum, cost $45,276.
Gold & Wood, established close to 25 years ago, turns to a few high-quality materials when rendering its gorgeous, exclusive eyewear: rare wood, hand-painted natural silk, carbon fiber, water buffalo horn and, of course, solid gold and diamonds. Its 253 Diamond model is named for the amount of princess-cut diamonds its delicate frames boast. This pair will set you back $55,000.
Like Bentley, the name Bulgari conjures up images of wealth and exclusivity — though specifically in the area of jewelry. Fortunately for all the eyewear divas out there, Bulgari also produces extremely high-end sunglasses. Take its Flora model, for example. With a frame made of 18k pure white gold and decked out in diamonds and sapphires, these elegant specs will cost you $59,000.
Maybach, now under the umbrella of Mercedes-Benz, is a luxury car brand that was founded in Germany in 1909 by a father and son duo of the same surname. The company sashayed into the optical scene in 2010 — the same year as fellow luxury car brand Bentley — and has been revving forward ever since.
Its priciest pair of sunglasses are the Diplomat 1, which are constructed with 18k gold and feature 174 hand-designed diamonds. Only 50 of these diplomat’s dazzlers were made, which factors strongly into why they fetch $60,000 a pop.
With a name like Luxuriator, you know to expect a hefty price-tag. Indeed, Luxuriator Style 23 Canary Diamond sunglasses, created by optical wear and jewelry designer Franco, don’t come cheap. As usual, the decadence is all in the frames, which in this case are made of 18k gold and buffalo ivory and are inlaid with 132 diamonds. These babies go for a cool $65,000.
These ultra sleek sunglasses may block out the rays, but they don’t block out the golden hues — not by a stretch. The CliC Gold 18 Carat Gold Sport sunglasses are, as the name says, made of solid 18k gold. They’re a feat of engineering, and require over 40 hours to make — and each pair is made by an expert gold crafter. These are the facts that may or may not justify the $75,000 price-tag.
With the name Cartier, who can be surprised that with these specs, we officially leap over the $100,000 benchmark — and then some. These dazzling specs boast 561 diamonds and 645 sapphires and 18 carat white gold. The jewels gather into the form of a little panther that appears to crouch over either temple. These sleek sunglasses make a roaring statement and fetch $159,000.
Green symbolizes a few different things: envy, wealth, new beginnings… It also symbolizes, in the case of the Shiels Jewellers Emerald sunglasses, exquisite luxury. The frame on these sunglasses is pure gold with encrusted diamonds — but the real marvel is in the lenses, which are made of refined emeralds. For $200,000 you can see the world through these green-colored glasses.
What would a list of the top 10 most expensive sunglasses in the world be without one of the most exclusive names in fashion: Dolce & Gabana? Indeed this Italian luxury brand might just steal the show — and the amount you paid for your house — with its DG2027B model. These superb specs are rimmed in gold and diamonds and go for $383,609.
The no. 1 most expensive sunglasses in the world are the Chopard de Rigo Vision. Made by Chopard, a Swiss watchmaker and jeweler, this eyewear boasts 60 grams of 24 carat gold in its frame, more gold along the temples and 51 full-cut River diamonds. They sell for an astonishing $408,000.
Unlike say, luxury handbags, which can be as hard to obtain as an invite to a front row seat at the Oscars — if not harder — sunglasses don’t necessarily become more valuable as time goes on.
“As for whether expensive sunglasses are a good investment, it depends,” said Imran Ali, co-founder at Glasses Hut. “If you take care of them and wear them often, then they can be worth the money. But if you’re only going to wear them occasionally or don’t take good care of them, then you might not get your money’s worth.”
Remember too, that your lifestyle matters — as does how you treat your most valuable possessions.
“If you tend to not leave your sunglasses in the back of the cab, high quality sunglasses can last for years and can be well worth the higher price-tag,” Chayes said.
The good news is that if you are interested in buying a pair of expensive sunglasses, you needn’t travel far. Check out your local optical shop, or, if you know which brand you want, you can head straight to their website. Stores like Nordstrom, Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue are also safe bets for ample collections of sunglasses fit for royalty.
Remember that though excellent craftsmanship and bedazzled bling go a long way in driving up the cost of the sunglasses, what’s most important when it comes to specs is how well your eyes are protected. If forced to choose between great lenses or sexy frames, prioritize the former — it will certainly help spare your bank account and quite possibly your entire life savings and then some.
Which sunglasses brand is the most expensive?
The most expensive sunglass brand in the world is technically Chopard, which has made the world's most expensive sunglasses – the Chopard de Rigo Vision, which sells for $408,000. But plenty of other brands make the list for most expensive, including Dolce & Gabana, Sheils Jewellers, Cartier, CliC Gold, Franco, Maybach, Bulgari, Gold & Wood and Bentley.
Which are the best sunglasses in the world?
"Best is very subjective," said Holly Chayes, personal style coach and consultant. "But when you're shopping for sunglasses look for high quality, good UV protection, frames that compliment your face shape and fit your personal style."
Which are the most expensive glasses in the world?
The title of most expensive sunglasses in the world goes to the Chopard de Rigo Vision, which are priced at $408,000. These stunning specs are graced with 24 carat-gold and then some and feature 51 rare cut diamonds.
Why are some sunglasses so cheap and some so expensive?
"There are generally two elements that contribute to the cost of sunglasses, the first is branding and the second is quality," Chayes said. "High quality sunglasses are going to be more expensive than cheaply made sunglasses, but they'll also offer better eye protection and last a lot longer. Add to that designer branding and luxurious materials, sunglasses can become astonishingly expensive."
Chayes added that the most expensive sunglasses will be the pairs that "blur the line between sunglasses and jewelry, utilizing materials we generally associate with necklaces, earrings, watches, bracelets, etc. in sunglasses to really push the price up."
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Most Expensive Sunglasses in the World and What They Cost
Welcome to the fancy world of the most expensive sunglasses! We’ll show you the most fantastic, blingy sunglasses you’ve ever seen. Imagine wearing sunglasses that cost as much as a fancy car or house! These aren’t just any sunglasses; they’re made with real gold, diamonds, and all sorts of shiny stuff.
From the top-of-the-line Chopard that costs a whopping $408,000 to the more affordable (but still fancy) CAPHORN shades at $1,375, each pair is super unique. So, stick with us if you’re curious about sunglasses that are more like treasure than something you’d wear to the beach.
We’re diving into a world where sunglasses are not just about keeping the sun out but about showing off and feeling like a million bucks (or more!).
The Most Expensive Sunglasses 1. Chopard De Rigo VisionIn the world of luxury eyewear, the Chopard De Rigo Vision holds an extraordinary position as it commands a staggering price of $408,000. These sunglasses boast a unique blend of elegance and functionality, crafted with utmost precision using high-quality materials.
The frame is made from 24-carat Gold, while the intricate details, such as the diamond-studded temple, showcase Chopard’s renowned craftsmanship. The price range can be attributed to precious metals, an array of 51 perfectly set River diamonds, and elite design, reaching the upper echelon of luxury eyewear.
2. Dolce & Gabbana DG2027BThe epitome of luxury, the Dolce & Gabbana DG2027B sunglasses are priced at $383,609, setting them apart in the luxury eyewear market. What makes these sunglasses extraordinarily expensive is the skillful incorporation of authentic Gold and platinum frame finishes along with the prestigious Dolce & Gabbana logo encrusted with sparkling diamonds and pure gold.
The exclusivity and breathtaking design of these sunglasses and all the above reasons symbolize extravagance and showcase the brand’s dedication to creating unique high-end products.
3. Shiels Jewellers EmeraldThe Shiels Jewellers Emerald sunglasses are priced at $200,000 and set a new benchmark in the eyewear industry. These stunning pieces feature captivating emerald lenses that exude an air of sophistication, while the frame is crafted from pure 18-carat White Gold.
The temple arms showcase a fabulous design with emeralds and diamonds tastefully adorning them. The use of high-quality precious gems, flawless craftsmanship, and the limited-edition factor contribute to their exorbitant price tag.
4. Cartier PanthereRegarding combining luxury and style, the Cartier Panthere sunglasses stand out with a price tag of $159,000. These sunglasses flaunt an 18-carat gold frame, with exquisitely crafted panther figurines perched on the temples as a nod to the brand’s iconic emblem.
The panthers are encrusted with 561 individually set diamonds and emerald eyes, showcasing the exceptional attention to detail that has become synonymous with Cartier. These luxurious and limited-edition sunglasses are sought-after for their unique and alluring design, precious materials, and craftsmanship.
5. CliC Gold 18 Carat Gold SportOffering eyewear enthusiasts a stunning blend of innovation, aesthetics, and luxury, the CliC Gold 18 Carat Gold Sport sunglasses are priced at $75,000. Handcrafted in 18-carat Gold, these sunglasses offer increased durability and a comfortable fit thanks to their neodymium magnet system, which allows for effortless adjustments by the wearer.
These sunglasses’ unique magnetic front closure system sets them apart, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to creating high-end products by incorporating advanced technology and precious materials.
6. Luxuriate Style 23 Canary DiamondAt an expensive tag of $65,000, the Luxuriator Style 23 Canary Diamond sunglasses not only exude style but also the essence of unmatched luxury. These designer sunglasses are exquisitely crafted with a lavish buffalo horn frame.
The key highlight is the 132 hand-cut pave set diamonds and the 18-carat yellow gold plate on the temple sides. This perfect amalgamation of premium quality, architectural style, and precious detailing makes these sunglasses a costly choice for a select few.
7. Maybach The Diplomat ISporting a price label of $60,000, Maybach The Diplomat I sunglasses are the epitome of remarkable craftsmanship. The frames are crafted from pure titanium and adorned with natural horn on the temple ends.
An iconic Maybach logo made from 18-carat Gold further accentuates its luxury quotient. The higher price tag of these sunglasses is a testament to their detailed craftsmanship, the use of luxurious materials, and the brand’s exclusivity.
8. Bulgari FloraFusing Italian craftsmanship with a glamorous design, the Bulgari Flora sunglasses, priced at $59,000, create a sophisticated style statement. The hand-polished acetate frames subtly accented with 18-carat white gold highlight elegance at its finest.
The temples are ornately decorated with diamond-studded flowers, making the perfect accessory to the pair of jewelry. The hefty price tag can be accounted for by the precise craftsmanship, the brand’s reputation, and the use of expensive materials, particularly diamonds.
9. Gold and Wood 253 DiamondStepping into the arena of extravagance, the Gold and Wood 253 Diamond sunglasses, priced at $55,000, exude refinement and elegance. The frames are constructed from handcrafted ebony and burl wood with a lustrous 22-carat gold accent.
Studded with 253 high-quality cut diamonds, these sunglasses prove that durability, comfort, and luxury can go hand in hand. The price range derives from the brand’s commitment to using only the finest materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and innovative designs.
10. Gold & Wood 119 Diamond GlassesOffering luxury and design artisans, the Gold & Wood 119 Diamond Glasses, valued at $30,000, encapsulate luxury in every detail. These high-end gold and wood frames are ornately laid with 119 stunning diamonds, enhancing the luxurious feel of the design.
The unique combination of precious wood, diamond accents and 22-carat gold elements amplifies the elegance and lends these glasses a unique, distinctive look. Their prime cost originates from the intricate production process, superior materials, and the incorporation of an array of diamonds.
11. Bentley PlatinumCommanding an affluent price of $45,276, Bentley Platinum sunglasses enter the global luxury eyewear market. The frames blend high-quality titanium and precious platinum perfectly, showcasing Bentley’s signature knurling on the temple ends.
These luxury sunglasses imbue iconic craftsmanship with Bentley’s iconic motifs, making them an opulent accessory for Bentley car owners. The high price results from the meticulous craftsmanship, extravagant material use, and the Bentley branding that exudes a sense of premium luxury.
12. Bulgari Parentesi DiamondLaying claim to a price tag of $31,000, the Bulgari Parentesi Diamond sunglasses pronounce the quintessence of Italian luxury. These sunglasses marry sleek design with lavish diamond detailing, echoing the motif of the brand’s Parentesi jewelry line, drawing inspiration from Roman pavement joints.
Crafted with white Gold and encrusted with parents’ round cut diamonds, they delineate Bulgari’s excellence in the luxury eyewear market. The steep price is justified by Bulgari’s unique, intricate design, use of only precious stones and materials, and branding prestige.
13. Lugano DiamondsAt a deluxe price of $27,000, the Lugano Diamonds sunglasses are an enticing addition to the high-end eyewear industry. Each pair of sunglasses is uniquely designed and customized for the individual wearer, containing meticulously placed diamonds and exclusive Lugano’s patented cut lenses.
The superior quality materials and the meticulously handcrafted design raise the price bar. The use of precious diamonds and the personalized treatment provided by Lugano keep the price range in the higher echelons of luxury designers.
14. Cartier Paris 18k GoldThe aristocratic Cartier Paris 18k Gold sunglasses, priced at $25,000, symbolize refinement and classic French design. Their elegance is underpinned by the 18-carat gold frame combined with brown gradient lenses. These glasses’ vital features are the brand’s iconic panther emblem, crafted with precision and sophistication.
The high price tag for this expensive pair of glasses is due to Cartier’s reputation for luxury, the extensive use of Gold, and dedication to exceptional craftsmanship.
15. CAPHORN XTREM 04 by Gold & WoodValued at $1,375, the CAPHORN XTREM 04 by Gold & Wood is a more affordable offering in luxury eyewear. These sunglasses stand out with their eco-conscious design and noble materials, as the frames are made from hand-selected natural wood.
They promise organic comfort with sturdy construction and provide a stylish, minimalistic appeal. Although significantly lower in price compared with the others, the cost is still boosted by the exceptional wood craftsmanship, the utilization of sustainable production methods, and the bespoke approach of Gold and wood to luxury eyewear crafting.
Conclusion
As our journey through the lavish world of the most expensive sunglasses brand comes to a close, we’ve seen how these stunning pieces are more than just eye protection; they are masterpieces of art and engineering. Each pair tells its own unique story of design, luxury, and exclusivity, showcasing the pinnacle of fashion and craftsmanship.