Gemstones are beautiful treasures from the earth that are associated with wealth and power. Their rarity adds to their charm, making them sought-after symbols of exclusivity.
Each rare gem holds its own story, shaped over millions of years, offering a glimpse into the planet’s geological past.
In this article, we’ll discuss what makes a gemstone rare and reveal the rarest gemstones in the world.
What Makes a Gemstone Seriously Rare?
Due to the challenges in mining natural gemstones, their availability is limited. Gemstones are also difficult to replicate, so they’re expensive. The rarer the gemstone, the greater its value, with scarce ones like colored diamonds or unique sapphires commanding higher prices.
Consequently, the rarity and challenges in getting these precious stones increase their market value.
What are the 7 Rarest Gemstones?
The rarest gemstones have distinct characteristics and were discovered in different countries. These are the seven rarest gemstones in the world.
1. Blue Jadeite Jade Gemstone
The blue jadeite jade gemstone is found in Myanmar and Guatemala. Its vivid and distinct blue shades are captivating, and it’s known for its excellent color and transparency.
Market Value
Generally, the jadeite jade gemstone costs around $40,000 per carat. It’s made of a monoclinic pyroxene mineral known for its durability and hardness. Since the blue jadeite jade gemstone is one of the scarcer types of jadeite, it’s sought after by many collectors and gem enthusiasts.
2. Red Diamond Gemstone
Another rare gemstone is the red diamond, the third most expensive gemstone in the world. It’s made of boron and nitrogen, contributing to its vibrant red color, which many collectors love. The red diamond was initially discovered in Brazil in 1989.
Market Value
Today, the majority of red diamonds in the market originate from Australia. They cost $1.3 million per carat. Specifically, the Moussaieff Red Diamond is the rarest, most expensive, and largest red diamond, worth $20 million.
3. Musgravite Gemstone
The musgravite gemstone was first discovered in Australia’s Musgrave Ranges in 1967 and later found in Greenland and Madagascar. It comes in various colors, like greenish-blue, violet, purple, gray, or colorless, influenced by trace elements. Musgravite is also highly prized for its clarity, highlighting the gem’s color and brilliance.
Market Value
This unique gemstone can be worth up to $35,000 per carat, depending on the quality, which factors like color, clarity, and rarity can influence. High-quality musgravite gemstones are also commonly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
4. Blue Garnet Gemstone
Blue garnets are found in Madagascar, particularly near Bekily. These distinctive garnets show a blue-green hue in daylight and shift to purple when exposed to incandescent light.
These gemstones feature needle-like inclusions, which contribute to their distinct appearance. They’re visually stunning and scientifically fascinating.
Market Value
These gemstones are highly desired in the marketplace because of their remarkable color-changing features. They’re known as the first “blue” garnets accessible commercially. A blue garnet costs about $1.5 million per carat. In 2003, a single gem weighing 4.2 carats was sold for $6.8 million.
5. Pink Star Diamond Gemstone
The pink diamond is one of the most precious gemstones in the world. This diamond was first found in India, and its enchanting pink color results from the intense pressure it underwent during formation. It’s the largest diamond of this color ever discovered.
Market Value
The pink star diamond, which weighs around 59.6 carats, was sold by Sotheby’s Auction for $71.2 million. This unique and beautiful diamond continues to capture the attention of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
6. Alexandrite Gemstone
Alexandrite is a rare and precious gem that changes color. It was first discovered in Russia in the 1830s and named after Czar Alexander II. Aside from Russia, it can now be found in Sri Lanka, India, Tanzania, and Brazil.
Additionally, alexandrite changes color depending on where it comes from. Sri Lankan alexandrites look yellowish green in daylight and become brownish or orange in incandescent light, while Brazilian ones have a bluish-green tint and can turn reddish purple. Top Brazilian stones have a vibrant color change, while Russian ones are known for pure green hues.
Market Value
Alexandrite’s value depends on where it comes from, with Russian and Brazilian gems being more valuable. Today, it costs about $10,000 to over $50,000 per carat, depending on factors like color-changing properties and overall quality.
7. Red Beryl Gemstone
The red beryl is another precious and rare gemstone. It’s known for its captivating red hue and hexagonal shape. The red color comes from different chemicals added during its hydrothermal growth. The only known place to find high-quality red beryl is the Ruby Violet mine in Utah’s Wah Wah Mountains.
Market Value
Red beryl gemstones cost $2,000 to $50,000 per carat, making them highly desirable. However, natural and synthetic red beryl gemstones exist, so gem enthusiasts should identify the differences before purchasing these rare gems.
Read More: Luxury & Rarity: The World’s Most Expensive Gemstones
Learn More About Rare Gems with Willyn Villarica Jewelry
The seven rarest gemstones in the world are highly sought after by collectors not only because of their beauty but also because of their market value. These authentic gems have unique characteristics like color-changing properties, and they’re only found in certain countries.
With that said, it’s essential to consult a skilled jewelry appraiser to determine the true value and authenticity of rare gemstones in jewelry. When buying jewelry with precious stones, getting an expert assessment is wise to guarantee authenticity and accuracy.
Willyn Villarica is your trusted partner for gemstone identification services. Ms. Willyn Vullarica, our in-house expert, is recognized as a licensed graduate gemologist from the prestigious Gemological Institute of America and the only National Association of Jewelry Appraisers member from the Philippines.
Catering to clients around the globe, our expertise and commitment to excellence ensure that you receive personalized guidance and expert advice tailored to your specific needs and preferences. It’s important to note that while we offer our services worldwide, clients are responsible for covering all travel expenses. Don’t miss out on learning about gemstones with Willyn Villarica.
Send your inquiries or book an appointment now. Hit us up at admin@willynvillaricajewelry.com or catch us on Facebook (Willyn Villarica Jewelry) and Instagram (@willynvillarica_jewelry). Need quick assistance? Call us at +63279497547.