What Gem Is Worth More Than Gold?
What Gem Is Worth More Than Gold? Did you know that there is a gem out there that holds a value even greater than gold? It’s true! This gem, whose worth surpasses that of the brilliant precious metal, remains a mystery to many. Its mesmerizing beauty and rarity make it a highly sought-after treasure in the world of gemology. So, have you ever wondered which gem is worth more than gold? Let’s dive into the enchanting world of precious stones and discover the answer together.
Diamonds
Properties of diamonds
Diamonds are widely known for their exceptional hardness, making them the hardest naturally occurring substance known to man. With a rating of 10 on the Mohs scale, they are extremely durable and resistant to scratching. This characteristic, coupled with their brilliant luster and unmatched clarity, makes diamonds one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
The diamond industry
The diamond industry plays a significant role in various economies worldwide. From mining to cutting, polishing, and trading, this industry generates billions of dollars in revenue annually. Countries like Botswana, Russia, Canada, and Australia have flourishing diamond mines, contributing to local employment and infrastructure development. The industry also fuels a robust market for diamond jewelry, with engagement rings being the most iconic symbol of love and commitment.
Valuing diamonds
Several factors determine the value of a diamond. The famous “Four Cs” – carat weight, color, clarity, and cut – are the primary considerations. Carat weight refers to the size of a diamond, with larger stones typically being more valuable. The color of a diamond ranges from colorless to various shades of yellow or brown, with colorless diamonds being the most valuable. Clarity refers to the presence of any internal or external flaws, with flawless diamonds being the rarest and most valuable. Finally, the cut of a diamond determines its brilliance and overall beauty, with well-cut diamonds commanding higher prices.
Rubies
Properties of rubies
Rubies are known for their vibrant red color and magnificent brilliance. They belong to the corundum mineral family, which also includes sapphires. Rubies are exceptionally hard, measuring 9 on the Mohs scale, making them a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. Along with their hardness, the color of a ruby is its most defining characteristic, ranging from deep red to lighter pinkish-red hues.
The rarity of rubies
Rubies, especially those of high quality and larger sizes, are considered rare gemstones. The finest rubies often come from countries like Myanmar (formerly Burma), Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Due to their scarcity, rubies command high prices in the market, earning them the title of “King of Gemstones.”
Historical significance
For centuries, rubies have held a special place in various cultures and civilizations. They have been associated with power, wealth, and passion. Throughout history, rubies adorned the crowns and jewelry of royalty and were believed to possess protective qualities. The allure of rubies continues to captivate people, with their deep red color symbolizing love, intensity, and courage.
Valuing rubies
Rubies are valued based on their color, clarity, size, and origin. The finest rubies possess a pure red color, known as “pigeon blood” red, and exhibit exceptional clarity with minimal visible inclusions. Larger rubies are rarer and thus more valuable. Origin also plays a role in determining their worth, with Burmese rubies historically commanding premium prices due to their exceptional quality.
Sapphires
Properties of sapphires
Sapphires are gemstones belonging to the corundum mineral family, just like rubies. While blue is the most commonly associated color with sapphires, they can actually occur in various colors, including pink, yellow, green, and even colorless (known as white sapphires). Sapphires are highly durable, with a rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them suitable for everyday wear.
Different colors of sapphires
Sapphires’ enchanting array of colors has captivated gem enthusiasts for centuries. Blue sapphires are the most well-known and coveted, ranging from deep velvety blue to lighter shades reminiscent of a summer sky. Padparadscha sapphires, a delicate blend of pink and orange, are highly prized for their rare and distinctive hue. Other sapphires come in striking shades of pink, yellow, green, and even rare color-changing varieties.
Famous sapphires
Sapphires have adorned the jewelry of royalty and the elite throughout history. One of the most famous sapphires is the 563-carat Star of India, displayed at the American Museum of Natural History. The Blue Belle of Asia, a remarkable 392.52-carat sapphire, is also highly regarded for its exceptional color and size. These famous sapphires serve as a testament to the allure and timeless beauty of this gemstone.
Valuing sapphires
When valuing sapphires, several factors come into play. Alongside the traditional considerations of color, clarity, carat weight, and cut, the desirability of the specific color plays a crucial role. For blue sapphires, the depth and intensity of the blue hue are key determinants of value. The presence of any visible inclusions and the overall clarity of the stone also contribute to its worth. Additionally, origin can affect the value, with highly prized sapphires coming from Kashmir, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar.
Emeralds
Properties of emeralds
Emeralds are famous for their mesmerizing green color, symbolizing vitality, nature, and rebirth. While they belong to the beryl family, their distinctive green hue sets them apart. Emeralds are moderately hard, with a rating of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. However, their internal flaws, known as “jardin,” are considered part of their charm and character.
The allure of emeralds
The alluring green of emeralds has enchanted civilizations for centuries. Ancient cultures revered emeralds for their supposed healing properties, believing they could cure various ailments and protect against evil. The vivid green color evokes a sense of tranquility and is associated with growth, fertility, and springtime.
Famous emeralds
One of the most famous emeralds in the world is the Mogul Mughal Emerald, a 217.80-carat gemstone with a remarkable history dating back to the 17th century. Other notable emeralds include the Chalk Emerald, an exquisite 37.82-carat stone known for its exceptional color and clarity, and the Duke of Devonshire Emerald, a captivating gem displayed at Chatsworth House, England.
Valuing emeralds
Emeralds are valued based on their color, clarity, carat weight, and cut. The most valuable emeralds exhibit a rich, deep green color without any undertones of brown or yellow. Clarity is also a significant factor, with emeralds having a reputation for including visible internal flaws. However, high-quality emeralds with a vibrant color and minimal inclusions can command substantial prices. Origin is another crucial consideration, with emeralds from Colombia often regarded as the most desirable and valuable.
Alexandrite
Properties of alexandrite
Alexandrite is a unique and captivating gemstone renowned for its remarkable color-changing properties. This chameleon-like characteristic sets it apart from other gemstones. In daylight or fluorescent light, alexandrite appears green or bluish-green, while under incandescent light, it transforms into an exquisite reddish-purple or purplish-red hue. This phenomenon, known as “alexandrite effect,” never fails to astonish and delight.
The color-changing phenomenon
The exceptional color-changing ability of alexandrite stems from its unique mineral composition. It belongs to the chrysoberyl family and contains traces of chromium, which is responsible for the fascinating shift in color. The gemstone’s ability to change colors depending on the light source adds to its allure and rarity.
Rare and unique
Alexandrite is considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world. Its limited availability and striking color-changing properties contribute to its exclusivity and desirability among collectors and gem enthusiasts. This gemstone is predominantly found in mines located in Russia, Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa.
Valuing alexandrite
When valuing alexandrite, the primary consideration is the intensity and quality of its color change. The more dramatic and distinct the transformation, the higher the value. Additionally, alexandrite’s clarity, carat weight, and cut all influence its worth. Fine specimens with a vibrant and vivid color change command significant prices in the market due to their rarity and uniqueness.
Jadeite
Properties of jadeite
Jadeite is a gemstone revered for its stunning green colors and esteemed cultural significance. It belongs to the jade family, which also includes nephrite. Jadeite, a more rare and valuable variety, is known for its intensely vibrant green shades. With a hardness of around 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, jadeite is relatively durable but requires proper care and protection.
Cultural significance
Jadeite holds profound cultural significance in various parts of the world, notably in Chinese, Mayan, and Maori cultures. It is considered a symbol of purity, harmony, and prosperity. Throughout history, jadeite has been used to create intricate and revered carvings, jewelry, and artifacts. In Chinese culture, it is believed to have protective and healing properties and is often associated with good fortune and longevity.
Quality factors
When assessing the quality of jadeite, a combination of factors comes into play. Color is of utmost importance, with intense, even hues of green being the most desirable and valuable. Transparency and texture also influence the stone’s worth, with highly translucent jadeite of fine texture commanding higher prices. Additionally, the absence of any visible flaws or cracks enhances the value of the gemstone.
Valuing jadeite
Jadeite’s value is determined by its color, transparency, texture, and absence of flaws. The most highly valued jadeite possesses a vivid, intense green color with a high degree of translucency and a fine texture. Larger pieces of high-quality jadeite are exceedingly rare and, therefore, more valuable. The demand for jadeite, particularly in Chinese markets, contributes to its significant worth.
Musgravite
Properties of musgravite
Musgravite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, belonging to the taaffeite family. It was first discovered in the Musgrave Range of South Australia, giving it its name. Musgravite exhibits a stunning range of colors, including grayish-violet, grayish-green, and grayish-blue. Its hardness ranges between 7 and 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone.
The rarest gemstone
Musgravite’s rarity is unparalleled, with only a handful of known gem-quality specimens in existence. Its scarcity and unique color palette make it highly sought after by gem collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Due to its limited availability, musgravite has become a highly prized and valuable gemstone.
Demand and value
With such limited supply, demand for musgravite far exceeds its availability, making it a true gemstone rarity. Its exquisite color variations and exceptional rarity contribute to its high value. Musgravite’s allure lies not only in its scarcity but also in its mesmerizing beauty, making it a true treasure for passionate gemstone connoisseurs.
Blue Garnet
Properties of blue garnet
Blue garnet, also known as color-change garnet, is a mesmerizing and captivating gemstone renowned for its mysterious color-changing properties. This rare variety of garnet exhibits a fascinating shift in color, ranging from blue-green or teal in daylight or fluorescent light to purplish-red under incandescent light. This unique characteristic sets blue garnet apart from other colored gemstones.
The mysterious color-change
The color-changing property of blue garnet is a result of its mineral composition and crystal structure. When exposed to different light sources, the gemstone’s composition causes a dramatic transformation in color. This awe-inspiring phenomenon never fails to intrigue and captivate those fortunate enough to witness it.
Exclusivity and value
Blue garnet is an exceptionally rare gemstone, with only a handful of known deposits worldwide. Its limited availability and remarkable color-changing properties contribute to its exclusivity and desirability among collectors and gem enthusiasts. The rarity of blue garnet, combined with its mesmerizing color change, makes it a highly valuable and prized gemstone.
Taaffeite
Properties of taaffeite
Taaffeite is a lesser-known but highly valuable gemstone that belongs to the beryl family. It was named after gemologist Richard Taaffe, who discovered the stone in the early 20th century. Taaffeite exists in a range of colors, including lilac, pink, mauve, and violet. Its hardness measures around 7 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for use in jewelry.
Rare and lesser-known
Taaffeite is considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world, with limited deposits and a relatively low public awareness. Its beautiful and diverse colors, coupled with its scarcity, contribute to its exclusivity and desirability among gemstone collectors. Taaffeite remains a hidden gem in the world of gemstones, often underappreciated but highly sought after.
Increasing popularity
In recent years, taaffeite has been gaining recognition and popularity among gem enthusiasts and collectors. Its vibrant colors, rarity, and intriguing history have drawn attention to this lesser-known gemstone. As awareness grows, so does the demand for taaffeite, driving up its value in the market.
Red Beryl
Properties of red beryl
Red beryl, also known as “bixbite” or “red emerald,” is an exquisite gemstone that astounds with its unique red color. It is an extremely rare variety of beryl, deriving its breathtaking hue from traces of manganese within the crystal structure. With a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, red beryl is a durable gemstone suitable for jewelry.
Exquisite red color
Red beryl is renowned for its intense and vibrant red color, often resembling a rich raspbery hue. Its exceptional saturation and striking red hue are what set it apart from other red gemstones. Due to its rarity, obtaining a gem-quality red beryl is a rare and prized occurrence.
Limited availability
Red beryl is one of the rarest gemstones in existence, with very few known sources worldwide. The gemstone is primarily found in the Wah Wah Mountains of Utah, United States. This limited availability contributes to its high value and desirability among collectors and gemstone enthusiasts.
Valuing red beryl
When it comes to valuing red beryl, color is the most crucial factor. The gemstone’s extraordinary red color, combined with its intensity and saturation, plays a significant role in determining its worth. Clarity, carat weight, and cut are also considered in the valuation process. Due to its extreme rarity, gem-quality red beryl commands premium prices in the market, making it a highly coveted and valuable gemstone.
In conclusion, gemstones possess a timeless allure and hold immense value in both cultural and economic contexts. Diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, alexandrite, jadeite, musgravite, blue garnet, taaffeite, and red beryl all have their unique properties, rarity, and historical significance. From the dazzling sparkle of diamonds to the mystical color-changing properties of alexandrite, these gemstones continue to captivate and delight people around the world. Whether treasured for their beauty, symbolism, or investment potential, these precious gems will forever remain as cherished treasures.
