Janelle Monáe Debuts First-Ever Tequila Diamond On The Red Carpet

By Kelly Coffey-Behrens on May 13, 2025 at 2:30 PM EDT

Janelle Monae (left) tequila shot (right)
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Talk about drip with a twist. 1800 Tequila took red carpet glam to the next level by turning its award-winning tequila into a literal diamond.

Yes, you read that right. On the most-watched night in fashion, and Cinco de Mayo, no less, the world's most awarded tequila brand shocked everyone by debuting the first-ever tequila diamond, and it made its dazzling entrance on none other than Janelle Monáe.

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The World's First Tequila Diamond On The Red Carpet

The Grammy-nominated artist, known for pushing creative boundaries and making every red carpet a moment, stunned in a bespoke brooch designed by acclaimed jeweler Jonathan Raksha of Maison Raksha.

But this wasn't just any sparkle. The centerpiece of the brooch was crafted from 1800 Cristalino tequila, yes, the actual spirit, transformed into a precious, sustainable gemstone.

"To shine, and to create something truly iconic, you have to think differently," Monáe said of the stunning piece. "It's all poetic when you think about it – just like diamonds form under pressure, reimagining how diamonds are made takes a future-focused vision and dedication. And to wear an ethical diamond from 1800 Tequila on the red carpet, with this year's theme, felt like a fitting tribute to that."

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Jonathan Raksha Says The Broach Was Crafted To 'Embody The Spirit Of Liquid In Solid Form'

This isn't just a publicity stunt. It's a history-making innovation.

By merging science, sustainability, and luxury, 1800 Tequila is officially the first brand to create a diamond from tequila, setting a new bar for red carpet glam. The one-of-a-kind brooch, inspired by the sharp beauty of the blue Weber agave plant (the base of all 1800 Tequila), mimics the striking lines of the plant while honoring the clarity and craftsmanship of 1800 Cristalino.

"Every detail of the 1800 Tequila diamond brooch was crafted to embody the spirit of liquid in solid form," Raksha explained. "On a night when all eyes are on the red carpet, it was exciting to translate my design language into something more than just a jewel, but a bold statement that introduced the brand's first tequila diamond."

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More On 1800 Cristalino Tequila

But what exactly is 1800 Cristalino?

Building on the legacy of 1800 Añejo, Cristalino is aged for 16 months in American and French oak barrels before being finished in port wine casks for another six months. The result? A smooth, crystal-clear tequila that's as luxurious as it is flavorful.

It's no wonder the brand draws a parallel between this meticulously crafted spirit and the making of a diamond. After all, both undergo intense pressure, transformation, and time to become something truly extraordinary.

This bold move cements 1800 Tequila's status as a brand that isn't just about taste, it's about taste-making. From pioneering the global love affair with Añejo tequila to now dropping a diamond made from their premium blend, 1800 is redefining what luxury and drinks look like.

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About 1800 Tequila: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Known as the world's most awarded tequila and the #1 super-premium tequila brand in the U.S., 1800 Tequila is crafted from 100% blue Weber agave, harvested at its peak in Tequila, Mexico.

With a legacy built on excellence, 1800 has long been a pioneer in the industry, credited with creating the first-ever Añejo tequila and consistently delivering standout flavor and smoothness that has won over tequila lovers around the globe.

But it's not just about what's in the bottle. 1800 Tequila seamlessly blends deep-rooted Mexican heritage with bold, culture-shaping collaborations, partnering with some of the most influential musicians, artists, and visionaries to redefine modern luxury.

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Its iconic trapezoidal bottle design is a nod to ancient Mayan pyramids, connecting each pour to centuries of tradition.

Cheers To 1800 Tequila!

So, the next time you raise a glass of tequila, remember that 1800 Tequila didn't just make something delicious, they made it shine. Cheers to the future of fashion, flavor, and fabulous innovation.

Check out more photos of the tequila diamond, worn by Janelle Monáe, here.

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