Pearl Royale: The World's Most Expensive Chess Set by Colin Burn

julia_mji@me.com
Apr 1
4 min read

Updated: Sep 13

Pearl Royale - World's most expensive chess by Colin Burn

Why Choose Traditional Over Digital?

Reading a physical book often brings a sense of satisfaction that digital versions cannot match. Similarly, playing chess on a traditional board against a live opponent offers a depth of experience that online play simply cannot replicate. Among many luxurious items, we have discovered the world’s most expensive chess set, known as “The Pearl Royale.” This stunning chess set is the creation of Australian artist and goldsmith Colin Burn.

Each piece of this exceptional chess set is made from 18-carat white gold and embellished with diamonds, sapphires, and South Sea pearls. The luxurious nature of the Pearl Royale shines through its stunning materials and craftsmanship. It took countless hours and meticulous attention to detail to create this magnificent piece. Each figure has been adorned with flawless diamonds, making it a signature of perfection in craftsmanship.

The Allure of The Pearl Royale

The Pearl Royale chess set boasts an impressive total of 500 carats of diamonds, sapphires, and South Sea pearls. Such an exquisite item is rarely seen and was displayed only once in 2022 at an art gallery in Beverly Hills, California. The high price tag of $4 million reflects not just its materials but also its artistry and luxury. Each set comes with certification for its diamonds and gemstones and is classified as a limited edition artwork.

The question arises: will players be able to stay focused on the game, or will they become mesmerized by the stunning beauty of this artwork? The Pearl Royale is not just a game but a piece of art worthy of admiration.

Exquisite Craftsmanship

The Pearl Royale is crafted from solid 18K white gold and is meticulously paved with over 510 carats of fine diamonds. It stands as a testament to opulence, showcasing the finest quality materials, design, and workmanship available. Handcrafted with a royal feel, it symbolizes the renowned 1849 Staunton Standard chess set.

This limited edition only includes three sets, each hallmarked, numbered, and authorized by Burn himself.

Stunning Material Composition

Each checkpoint of the set features solid 18K white gold chess pieces adorned with the highest quality fine diamonds, AAA South Sea pearls, and Ceylon Blue sapphires. The pieces rest atop a crystal glass board embellished with solid gold and diamond-set corners.

Intricate designs are featured on the underside of each piece, ensuring every aspect of the set reflects luxury. This chess set is part of Burn's contemporary art collection and is poised to be regarded as one of the finest jewelry artworks globally.

The Man Behind the Art

Colin Burn, born in 1963, began his career as an apprentice electroplater. As he honed his skills in precious metals, his passion for transforming materials blossomed. Following his graduation, he worked at a leading jewelry firm specializing in silverware. At just 22 years old, he founded his own jewelry company and created transformative pieces, harnessing a secretive forming process.

Burn focuses on elements often overlooked, drawing attention to everyday items through opulence. His conceptual works are rich in symbolism and renowned for their beautification. The emotional impact of jewelry and art on people's lives drives him to create. “While it could be argued that no one really needs jewelry or art, our emotions tell us otherwise,” he states.

Creative Inspirations

Burn's love for chess craftsmanship started in childhood. He played chess regularly with his cousins. His parents gifted him a beautiful Staunton chess set, igniting his obsession. Growing up in the 60s and 70s, he experienced a world steeped in epic battle movies and collections of toy soldiers, making chess a beloved game in his generation.

Reflecting on those fun times, Burn dreamt of creating the world's most beautiful chess set. In 2008, he put his vision on paper. The South Sea pearls inspired his design, embodying the characters of each piece beautifully. Using both black and white pearls defined each side.

Burn’s design paid homage to the Staunton standard, the only chess set recognized in world championships. His vision was to create the most beautiful chess set flaunting opulent diamonds and rich blue sapphires fit for royalty. The ultimate goal was to craft the finest chess set for the greatest players to battle upon.

Colin Burn

Specifications Of Each Piece

King Specifications

Gold: 162 Grams 18K Solid White Gold - Rhodium Coated
Pearls: 1 x 16 mm Round Silver White Australian South Sea Pearl (White King), 1 x 16 mm Round Black Tahitian South Sea Pearl (Black King)
Sapphires: 40 x 2 mm Princess Cut AAA Blue Ceylon Sapphires
Diamonds: Total Carats 33.974ct

Queen Specifications

Gold: 158 Grams 18K White Gold - Rhodium Coated
Pearls: 1 x 16 mm Round Silver White Australian South Sea Pearl (White Queen), 1 x 16 mm Round Black Tahitian South Sea Pearl (Black Queen)
Diamonds: Total Carats 28.639ct