Birthstone jewelry holds a special significance, representing a personal connection to the month of one’s birth. Each month is associated with a specific gemstone believed to bring good fortune, and these stones are frequently incorporated into jewelry for both beauty and symbolic meaning. However, the value of these gemstones varies considerably, influenced by factors such as rarity, quality, and the skill required to craft them into wearable art. This article will explore the ranking of birthstones by value, providing insight into the characteristics that contribute to their price and significance.
History and Lore of Birthstones
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific birth months dates back to the late 1800s, though the practice of attributing powers to gemstones is far older. Throughout history, gemstones have been revered for their beauty and believed to possess healing properties or offer protection. The modern birthstone list, while standardized relatively recently, evolved from ancient traditions and interpretations. Birthstones are not merely aesthetic additions to jewelry; they are imbued with symbolism and are often given as sentimental gifts for birthdays and anniversaries.
The Most Expensive Birthstones
The most valuable birthstones are often referred to as “precious stones” due to their exceptional rarity and beauty. These gems command high prices per carat and are highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.
Diamond: April’s Stone of Eternal Love
Topping the list is the diamond, the birthstone for April. Renowned for its unparalleled hardness – a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale – and brilliance, the diamond is composed of pure carbon. It symbolizes purity, eternal love, strength, and invincibility. Diamonds are valued based on the “4Cs”: color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. Colorless diamonds are generally the most expensive, though fancy colored diamonds can also reach extraordinary prices. The price range for diamonds is estimated at $3,000 to $11,000 per carat.
Ruby: July’s Passionate Gem
Following the diamond is the ruby, the birthstone for July. Known for its vibrant red hue, caused by the presence of chromium, the ruby is the hardest gemstone after diamond. Fine rubies are transparent with minimal inclusions. Symbolizing passion, love, vitality, energy, courage, and protection, rubies have been prized for centuries. The estimated price range for rubies is $3,000 to $10,000 per carat.
Emerald: May’s Verdant Treasure
The emerald, representing May, is another highly valued gemstone. Its rich green color is highly desirable, and like rubies, fine emeralds are transparent with minimal inclusions. Emeralds symbolize rebirth and love. The price range for emeralds is estimated at $3,000 to $7,000 per carat.
Sapphire: September’s Regal Blue
Sapphires, the birthstone for September, typically evoke images of deep blue, but they actually occur in a variety of colors. They rank 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Sapphires symbolize wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. The price range for sapphires is $1,000 to $3,500 per carat.
Alexandrite: June’s Color-Changing Wonder
Alexandrite, one of June’s birthstones, is a particularly remarkable gem. A variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, alexandrite exhibits a unique color-changing property, appearing bluish-green in daylight and purplish-red in incandescent light. Discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in 1830, it was named after Czar Alexander II. Its price range is $2,500 to $3,000 per carat.
Aquamarine: March’s Serene Beauty
Aquamarine, the birthstone for March, is a beautiful blue-green gemstone. Its price range is estimated at $800 to $1,000 per carat.
Mid-Range Birthstones
Several birthstones fall into a mid-range price category, offering a balance of beauty and affordability.
Peridot: August’s Lime Green Gem
Peridot, the birthstone for August, is unique in that it is typically found in only one color: lime green. It symbolizes strength, protection, and healing, and is valued at $400 to $650 per carat.
Garnet: January’s Fiery Stone
Garnet, the birthstone for January, is available in several colors, with red being the most popular. It symbolizes passion, energy, and good health, and is priced between $500 and $600 per carat.
Blue Topaz: December’s Tranquil Hue
Blue topaz, representing December, is valued at $100 to $400 per carat. Topaz comes in a variety of colors, including blue, yellow, pink, and clear, and represents love, affection, and strength.
Tourmaline: October’s Colorful Variety
Tourmaline, the birthstone for October, is known for its wide range of colors, including pink, green, and bi-color options. It symbolizes creativity, love, and healing, and is priced between $100 and $400 per carat.
The Most Affordable Birthstones
For those seeking beautiful birthstone jewelry on a budget, several options offer excellent value.
Amethyst: February’s Royal Purple
Amethyst, the birthstone for February, is a deep, rich purple gemstone. Once considered as valuable as ruby and sapphire, amethyst now ranges in price from $50 to $90 per carat and symbolizes peace, clarity, and spiritual growth.
Citrine: November’s Sunny Gem
Citrine, the birthstone for November, is available in yellow and orange colors. Its warm color makes it a popular choice, and it symbolizes joy, abundance, and prosperity, with a price range of $10 to $50 per carat.
Gemological Properties and the Mohs Scale
The value of a birthstone is not solely determined by its rarity. Gemological properties, particularly hardness as measured by the Mohs scale, play a significant role. The Mohs scale, ranging from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond), indicates a gemstone’s resistance to scratching. Diamonds, with a Mohs hardness of 10, are the most durable, while softer stones like pearl (2.5-4.5) and opal (5.5-6.5) are more prone to wear and tear.
The following table summarizes the Mohs hardness of several birthstones:
| Birthstone | Month | Mohs Scale |
|---|---|---|
| Diamond | Apr. | 10 |
| Sapphire | Sept. | 9 |
| Ruby | Jul. | 9 |
| Topaz | Nov. | 8 |
| Aquamarine | Mar. | 7.5–8 |
| Garnet | Jan. | 6.5–7.5 |
| Amethyst | Feb. | 7 |
| Peridot | Aug. | 6.5–7 |
| Opal | Oct. | 5.5–6.5 |
| Pearl | Jun. | 2.5–4.5 |
Factors Influencing Gemstone Value
Beyond the 4Cs (color, cut, clarity, and carat weight) and hardness, several other factors influence a birthstone’s value. These include:
- Hue, Tone, and Shade: The intensity and balance of a gemstone’s color significantly impact its price. Rich, vibrant hues are generally more valuable, while gemstones that are too light or too dark may be less desirable.
- Rarity: The scarcity of a gemstone directly affects its value. Diamonds, rubies, and emeralds are among the rarest and therefore most expensive birthstones.
- Origin: The geographical origin of a gemstone can also influence its price. Certain locations are known for producing gemstones of exceptional quality.
Conclusion
The world of birthstones offers a fascinating blend of history, lore, and gemological science. From the unparalleled brilliance of the diamond to the sunny warmth of citrine, each gemstone possesses unique qualities that contribute to its value and significance. Understanding the factors that influence a birthstone’s price – rarity, color, clarity, cut, carat weight, and hardness – allows enthusiasts and buyers to make informed choices and appreciate the beauty and symbolism of these treasured gems. The ranking of birthstones by value provides a guide to navigating this captivating world, highlighting the enduring appeal of these precious stones.