People have long attributed protective qualities and good fortune to birthstones, but today, their beauty and monetary worth are equally prized. Among these gems, certain stones command significantly higher prices than others, influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While diamonds are often considered the most valuable gemstone, a closer examination reveals that alexandrite frequently surpasses even the finest diamonds in per-carat cost. This article will explore the most expensive birthstones, detailing the characteristics that contribute to their value and tracing their historical significance, based on available data.
Historical Significance and Lore
The story of alexandrite, currently considered by many sources to be the most expensive birthstone, is intrinsically linked to Russian history. Discovered in 1830 in the Ural Mountains of Russia, its discovery coincided with the birthday of Czar Alexander II, the heir to the throne, leading to its naming in his honor. The gem’s unique color-changing properties – appearing bluish-green in daylight and purplish-red under incandescent light – also mirrored the national colors of Russia, solidifying its status as the country’s national stone.
Diamonds, while ubiquitous today, also possess a rich history. Their enduring symbolism of love and commitment has cemented their place as a cornerstone of the jewelry industry. Rubies, known as the “King of Gems,” have historically represented passion, power, and love, contributing to their long-standing popularity. Emeralds, with their vibrant green hue, have been associated with royalty and luxury for centuries. Sapphires, particularly those with a deep, saturated blue color, have also captivated cultures for generations.
Factors Influencing Gemstone Value
The price of a birthstone is not determined by a single factor, but rather a combination of characteristics. Several key elements contribute to a gemstone’s overall value.
- Carat: This refers to the weight of the gemstone, with larger stones generally commanding higher prices due to their rarity. A 2-carat stone of the same quality will be more expensive than a 1-carat stone.
- Color: The desirability of a color varies depending on the stone. For example, the deep blue hue of a sapphire is highly sought after, while the most valuable diamonds are often colorless.
- Brilliance: This refers to how light interacts with the gemstone, influencing its sparkle and fire.
- Origin: The geographical origin of a gemstone can impact its value, with certain locations known for producing higher-quality stones.
- Rarity: This is arguably the most significant factor. The rarer a gemstone, the more expensive it is likely to be.
A Ranking of Birthstone Value
Based on available data, here’s a ranking of birthstones from most to least expensive, with approximate per-carat prices:
- Alexandrite: $15,000 – $70,000 per carat. Alexandrite’s exceptional color-changing ability and relative scarcity make it the most expensive birthstone.
- Diamond: $3,500 – $25,000 per carat. While not always the most expensive, high-quality diamonds, particularly those that are colorless, internally flawless, and of Type IIa purity, can reach significant prices. Fancy color diamonds, such as red, green, purple, orange, pink, and blue, are even more valuable due to their rarity.
- Ruby: Approximately $5,000 per carat for a 1-carat high-quality stone. The intense red color and durability of rubies contribute to their high value.
- Emerald: Approximately $3,000 per carat for a 1-carat high-quality stone. The luxurious green hue and historical association with royalty make emeralds highly desirable.
- Blue Sapphire: $2,000+ per carat. Sapphires, particularly those with a deep blue color, are prized for their beauty and durability.
- Tanzanite: $1,500 per carat. This rare gem, found only in Tanzania, is a relatively recent addition to the list of valuable birthstones.
It’s important to note that these prices are estimates and can vary significantly based on the specific qualities of each stone.
Gemological Properties of Key Stones
Alexandrite: A variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, alexandrite is renowned for its dramatic color change. This phenomenon is due to its ability to absorb different wavelengths of light under different lighting conditions.
Diamond: Composed of pure carbon, diamonds are the hardest known naturally occurring substance, registering a 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Their brilliance is a result of their high refractive index and dispersion. Diamonds are graded based on the “4Cs”: carat, cut, clarity, and color.
Ruby: A variety of the mineral corundum, rubies derive their red color from the presence of chromium. They are exceptionally durable, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale.
Emerald: Another variety of corundum, emeralds get their green color from trace amounts of chromium and vanadium. They are relatively softer than rubies and diamonds, with a hardness of 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale.
Sapphire: Also a variety of corundum, sapphires come in a wide range of colors, but blue is the most well-known. Like rubies, they have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale.
Synthetic vs. Natural Birthstones
The market also includes synthetic or lab-created birthstones. While these offer a more affordable alternative, they are generally less valuable than their natural counterparts. Synthetic stones are created in a laboratory environment, mimicking the chemical composition and crystal structure of natural gemstones. However, they lack the rarity and unique characteristics of stones formed through natural geological processes.
Considerations for Jewelry Buyers
When choosing birthstone jewelry, it’s crucial to consider the interplay between the “4Cs” – carat, color, clarity, and cut. A larger stone with poor color, cut, and clarity will be less valuable than a smaller stone with excellent qualities in all areas. For jewelry businesses, planning ahead and budgeting for a complete series of birthstone pieces is essential, as creating a collection encompassing all twelve months requires significant investment.
Conclusion
The world of birthstones is a fascinating blend of history, science, and artistry. While diamonds have long been considered a symbol of luxury, alexandrite frequently commands the highest per-carat price due to its exceptional rarity and unique color-changing properties. Understanding the factors that influence gemstone value – carat, color, clarity, origin, and rarity – is essential for both jewelry enthusiasts and buyers. Ultimately, the most valuable birthstone is often the one that holds the most personal significance.