Steve Quick Jewelers Gold Tabletop Tree

In 2007, jeweler Steve Quick was in the mood to celebrate the holiday in his own unique way: he wanted to create a piece that was both exquisitely aesthetic and reflected the virtue of generosity that the occasion demanded. His key to his vision was pounding 18 carat pure gold into a gleaming yellow Christmas tree drowned in diamonds to give the spectator the impression of pristine snow.

The star at the top of the Steve Quick Jewelers Gold Tabletop Tree is made of platinum and a 4.52 carat diamond. The star may also be worn as a pendant because it is totally removable. When the tree and pendant were placed in the storefront, no one paid for it, but an eBay auction accomplished the trick, with the money going to the American Cancer Society. Steve quickly came out with more affordable silver- and gold-plated versions of the Christmas tree to placate people who balked at the daunting price. Everyone was pleased with the choice to sell the Steve Quick Jewelers Gold Tabletop Tree at more affordable pricing of USD 20 and USD 25.

Cost: $500,000