For most of us, sunglasses are practical accessories that shield our eyes from the sun. But in the world of high fashion and luxury design, sunglasses become something else entirely—status symbols, wearable art, and even investment pieces. Some pairs are crafted with precious metals, encrusted with diamonds, or made using rare gems, pushing their price tags into the stratosphere.
Here’s a look at the seven most expensive sunglasses in the world, and why they command such jaw-dropping prices.
1. Chopard De Rigo Vision – \$400,000
Sitting at the very top of the luxury eyewear pyramid is Chopard’s collaboration with De Rigo Vision. These sunglasses are encrusted with diamonds and 24-karat gold accents, combining Swiss precision with jewelry-level craftsmanship. More than just eyewear, they are works of art designed for elite collectors.
2. Dolce & Gabbana DG2027B – \$383,000
Dolce & Gabbana’s DG2027B sunglasses redefine what luxury fashion can mean. The frames are made of gold and adorned with dozens of tiny diamonds, seamlessly merging eyewear with high jewelry. They’ve become an iconic example of Italian extravagance in design.
3. Shiels Emerald Sunglasses – \$200,000
Australian jeweler Shiels created a one-of-a-kind masterpiece by crafting lenses out of actual emeralds. Known as the “emerald sunglasses,” they’re as bold as they are rare. The green-hued lenses aren’t just symbolic of wealth—they’re nearly impossible to reproduce, which makes this pair priceless for collectors.
4. Cartier Panthère Glasses – \$159,000
Cartier’s reputation for sophistication extends beyond watches and jewelry into eyewear. Their Panthère sunglasses feature diamond-studded panther motifs wrapped around the frames, symbolizing power, elegance, and exclusivity. For Cartier enthusiasts, these glasses are wearable heritage pieces.
5. CliC Gold 18-Carat Sport Sunglasses – \$75,000
Who says sports gear can’t be luxurious? CliC took practicality and elevated it with 18-carat solid gold frames, blending athletic utility with opulence. Designed for those who want glamour even during outdoor adventures, they’re a testament to how far eyewear design can go.
6. Luxuriator Style 23 Canary Diamond Glasses – \$65,000
The Los Angeles-based brand Luxuriator specializes in statement eyewear, and this design is one of its crown jewels. Featuring frames paved with yellow canary diamonds, the Style 23 is bold, flashy, and unapologetically luxurious. For Hollywood elites and collectors, they’re the ultimate showpiece.
7. Gold and Wood Diamond Glasses – \$30,000
Combining natural materials with lavish detailing, Gold & Wood crafted a unique pair of glasses featuring 119 carefully set diamonds along the arms. The balance of understated wooden elements and dazzling stones makes them one of the most refined options on this list.
Why Do These Sunglasses Cost So Much?
While most sunglasses are priced for practicality, these luxury models come with massive price tags because of a few key factors:
- Materials: Precious metals like gold and platinum, as well as rare gemstones like diamonds and emeralds, drastically increase the value.
- Craftsmanship: Many are handmade, requiring weeks or even months of expert labor.
- Exclusivity: Several of these designs are limited editions or one-of-a-kind, ensuring rarity.
- Brand Prestige: Names like Cartier, Chopard, and Dolce & Gabbana add heritage and desirability to each design.
Are They Worth It?
For the average buyer, a \$30 pair of polarized sunglasses is enough for everyday use. But for luxury collectors and fashion connoisseurs, these eyewear pieces are investments and status symbols. Like fine watches or haute couture, they represent artistry, craftsmanship, and exclusivity.
Some even appreciate in value, especially when released in extremely limited numbers. For the wealthy elite, owning one is not just about wearing them—it’s about owning a piece of design history.
Final Thought
From emerald lenses to diamond-studded frames, the world’s most expensive sunglasses blur the line between function and jewelry. While most of us may never own a pair, they remind us that even the simplest accessories can be elevated to extraordinary heights.
Next time you slip on your shades, imagine what it might feel like to hide from the sun behind a fortune in diamonds.
