Birthstones have captivated humanity for centuries, imbued with symbolism, lore, and increasingly, monetary value. The worth of a birthstone is determined by a complex interplay of factors, including rarity, color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. This article delves into the varying values of birthstones, providing an overview of their price ranges and the characteristics that contribute to their worth, based on current market estimations.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year has ancient roots, though the modern list of birthstones evolved over time. Historically, gemstones were valued not only for their aesthetic beauty but also for their perceived metaphysical properties. While the sources do not detail the full historical journey of each stone, they highlight that certain gems, like emeralds, were once exclusive to royalty due to their perceived strength-giving properties. The naming of Alexandrite, for example, is directly tied to Russian history, commemorating Czar Alexander II. The modern practice of assigning birthstones allows individuals to connect with a gemstone that holds personal significance, often linked to their birth month.
Gemstone Value: A Tiered System
The value of birthstones varies dramatically. The sources categorize them broadly, revealing a clear hierarchy based on rarity and demand. At the highest end of the spectrum lie diamonds, rubies, and emeralds, considered “precious” stones. These are followed by sapphires and alexandrite, then aquamarine, peridot, and garnet. More affordable options include blue topaz, tourmaline, amethyst, and citrine.
The Most Expensive Birthstones
Alexandrite stands out as the most expensive birthstone, with prices ranging from $15,000 to $70,000 per carat. This remarkable gemstone is prized for its color-changing ability, appearing bluish-green in daylight and purplish-red under incandescent light. Discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in 1830, it quickly became the national stone of Russia due to its colors mirroring the nation’s military.
Diamonds, April’s birthstone, command prices between $3,500 and $10,000 per carat. The most valuable diamonds are colorless (graded D through F) and internally flawless, with a specific crystalline structure (Type IIa) free of impurities. Fancy color diamonds, though rarer, can also fetch extremely high prices.
Rubies, the birthstone for July, are valued between $3,000 and $10,000 per carat.
Emeralds, representing May, fall within the $3,000 to $7,000 per carat range. Colombian emeralds, known for their rich green hue, can reach prices as high as $100,000 per carat. Emeralds often contain natural inclusions, referred to as jardins (French for “gardens”), which are sometimes treated with oils to improve transparency.
Sapphires, the September birthstone, are priced from $1,000 to $3,500 per carat.
Mid-Range Birthstones
Tanzanite, one of December’s birthstones, is valued between $1,000 and $1,500 per carat. Discovered in Tanzania in 1967, it is a relatively recent addition to the birthstone list and remains exclusively sourced from this region. Its color, ranging from violetish blue to bluish violet, intensifies with heat treatment.
Aquamarine, the March birthstone, is priced between $800 and $1,000 per carat.
Peridot, August’s birthstone, is valued between $400 and $650 per carat. Notably, peridot is typically found in only one color: lime green.
Garnet, the January birthstone, ranges from $500 to $600 per carat, though it is available in several colors, with red being the most popular.
Affordable Birthstones
Blue Topaz, December’s other birthstone, is relatively affordable, priced between $100 and $400 per carat.
Tourmaline, representing October, also falls within the $100 to $400 per carat range and is available in a wide spectrum of colors, including pink, green, and bi-color varieties.
Amethyst, the February birthstone, is valued between $50 and $90 per carat. Historically, amethyst was considered as valuable as ruby and sapphire.
Citrine, the November birthstone, is the most affordable on the list, ranging from $10 to $50 per carat. Its warm yellow and orange hues make it a popular choice for minimalist jewelry designs.
The Four Cs of Gemstone Value
The value of any birthstone, regardless of its type, is assessed based on the “Four Cs”: color, clarity, cut, and carat.
Color: The intensity and hue of a gemstone significantly impact its value. For example, the most valuable emeralds exhibit a rich, vivid green to bluish-green color. Tanzanites with deeper color saturation are also more prized.
Clarity: Clarity refers to the presence of imperfections, known as inclusions or blemishes. Gemstones with fewer imperfections are generally more valuable, as they allow light to move freely, enhancing brilliance.
Cut: A well-cut gemstone reflects light evenly across its surface, maximizing its natural color and brilliance. Symmetry is crucial; the more symmetrical the cut, the better the light reflection and the higher the cost.
Carat: Carat weight measures the size of the gemstone. Larger, heavier stones are typically more valuable, but it’s important to balance carat weight with the other three Cs. A large stone with poor color, clarity, or cut will be less valuable than a smaller stone with excellent qualities.
Sources and Mining Locations
The sources highlight specific mining locations for certain birthstones. Emeralds are primarily sourced from Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, with the Puerto Arturo mine in Colombia being a major producer. Alexandrite was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia. Tanzanite is exclusively mined in the hills of Merelani in northern Tanzania. Diamonds are sourced globally, with varying qualities and origins.
Conclusion
The world of birthstones offers a diverse range of options, each with its unique appeal and value. From the exceptional rarity and price of Alexandrite to the affordability of Citrine, there is a birthstone to suit every preference and budget. Understanding the factors that influence gemstone value – rarity, the Four Cs, and origin – empowers informed decision-making when selecting a piece of birthstone jewelry. The enduring allure of these gemstones lies not only in their beauty but also in the rich history, symbolism, and personal connection they represent.