Some of the World’s Most Expensive Gemstones

Gemstones are defined as minerals created inside the earth; however, pearls and amber are notable exceptions as they are organic.  Minerals are classified as gemstones based on their chemical composition, refraction, crystal structure, and optical characteristics.  Both the classification and degree of imperfections determine the value and rarity of the stone. 

Throughout the world, gemstones lovers have always been on the lookout for beautiful and unique stones.  One such example is Jeremejevite, an extremely rare and very valuable gemstone first discovered in the Adun-Chilon Mountains in Siberia in 1883.  An aluminum borate mineral with variable fluoride and hydroxide ions, it is similar to quartz in hardness with a 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale.  Due to its rareness, it is not often used in jewelry, but jewelry cutters say Jeremejevite can be cut and polished without any problem and shows no reaction to heat. 

Another spectacular gemstone is Black Opal, which is the rarest type of Opal.  It is composed of silicon, hydrogen, and oxygen and most of the supply comes from the Lightning Ridge Mine in New South Wales.   The brilliant “fire” found in Black Opals and the scarcity make them extremely valuable.  Black Opals are believed to have lots of energy and in early times people wore the stone as an amulet against black magic.  

Taaffeite is one of the rarest and most valuable gems in the world.  It was named for the Australian gemologist, Richard Taaffe, who bought a cut and polished stone in 1945 in Dublin, Ireland.  Originally mistaken for spinel, Taaffeite is the first mineral to contain both beryllium and magnesium as major components.  The gem is found in Sri Lanka and Tanzania and hues range from nearly colorless to lavender, mauve and violet. 

Musgravite, which is in the same family as Taaffeite, is another very rare and valuable gem.  This very hard gemstone was first discovered in 1967 in the Musgrave Ranges in Australia and ranges from a brilliant green to violet color.  Musgravite is an aluminum oxide with various proportions of magnesium, iron, and zinc.  Today the gemstone is also found in Madagascar and Tanzania.   

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For the opportunity to view one of San Francisco’s most impressive collections, please contact us to schedule at visit.

Sources:

forbes.com/sites/trevornace/2015/11/02/12-most-expensive-gemstones-world/#5c0a94d25342 

discovery.com/tv-shows/game-of-stones/black-opal/