Birthstones have captivated humanity for centuries, serving as beautiful adornments and potent symbols of luck, health, and prosperity. The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year gained prominence in the late 19th century, evolving into the sentimental practice of gifting birthstone jewelry for birthdays and anniversaries. While all gemstones possess inherent beauty, some command significantly higher prices due to their exceptional color, quality, and rarity. This article delves into the world of birthstones, exploring the factors that contribute to their value and the fascinating histories behind these treasured gems, based on available information.
A History of Sentiment and Symbolism
The practice of linking gemstones to specific months has a complex and evolving history. While modern birthstone lists are relatively standardized, earlier associations varied across cultures and time periods. The origins can be traced back to the Breastplate of Aaron, a sacred garment described in the Book of Exodus, which featured twelve gemstones representing the tribes of Israel. Over time, these associations were adapted and refined, eventually leading to the birthstone charts we recognize today. The popularity of birthstone jewelry surged in the late 1800s, fueled by Victorian-era sentimentality and a growing interest in gemstone lore.
The Most Expensive Birthstones
Several birthstones consistently rank among the most valuable in the world. Alexandrite, a variety of the mineral chrysoberyl, currently holds the position of the most expensive, with prices ranging from $15,000 to $70,000 per carat. This exceptional value stems from its remarkable color-changing properties – appearing bluish-green in daylight and purplish-red under incandescent light. Discovered in 1830 in the Ural Mountains of Russia, the gemstone was named in honor of Czar Alexander II, and its red and green hues resonated with Russia’s military colors, establishing it as the national stone of the country.
Following Alexandrite, the diamond, April’s birthstone, commands a high price, typically between $3,500 and $10,000 per carat. The most expensive diamonds are colorless, possessing the highest ratings for both color (D through F) and clarity (Internally Flawless). Specifically, D-color, Internally Flawless, Type IIa diamonds are the most coveted. Type IIa diamonds are particularly rare, being free of nitrogen and boron impurities. Fancy color diamonds, while less common than colorless varieties, can also be exceptionally valuable, with red, green, purple, orange, pink, and blue hues fetching the highest prices. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades these diamonds based on the intensity of their color, with “Fancy Intense” and “Fancy Vivid” grades representing the most saturated and valuable stones.
Emerald, the birthstone for May, falls into the $3,000 to $5,000 per carat range. This vibrant green gemstone, a variety of the beryl mineral, has been prized since ancient Egyptian times, initially reserved for royalty and the nobility as a symbol of strength. Today, the primary sources of emeralds include Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, with the Puerto Arturo mine in Colombia being a particularly significant source. Emeralds are often characterized by jardins, or internal inclusions resembling moss or plant foliage. These inclusions are common and, in many cases, accepted as part of the stone’s character. However, it is a common practice to fill these fissures with oils or polymer resins to enhance transparency. The most valuable emeralds exhibit a rich, vivid green to bluish-green color.
Sapphire, the September birthstone, is valued between $2,000 and $10,000 per carat. While typically associated with blue hues, sapphires actually come in a wide range of colors, often referred to as “fancy color sapphires.” The Kashmir Valley in northern India is renowned for producing exceptionally valuable sapphires with an intense, medium-dark blue color and a velvety appearance. Ceylon (Sri Lanka) sapphires are generally lighter and brighter in color. Modern sources also include Madagascar, eastern Africa, Sri Lanka, and Australia.
Tanzanite, one of December’s birthstones, is priced between $1,000 and $1,500 per carat. This relatively recent discovery, found in 1967 in the hills of Merelani in northern Tanzania, is the only location on Earth where tanzanite is mined. Introduced to the market by Tiffany & Co. in 1968, tanzanite exhibits pleochroism, displaying different colors depending on the light – ranging from violetish blue to bluish violet. Deeper color saturation and larger carat weights contribute to higher value. Tanzanites displaying more blue than violet are particularly coveted.
Ruby and Peridot: Symbolism and Significance
Beyond the most expensive stones, other birthstones hold unique cultural and historical significance. Ruby, the July birthstone, is exceptionally durable and always red in color, with fine-quality rubies reaching prices exceeding $1,000,000 per carat. Rubies have long been associated with physicality, strength, and passion, favored by warriors for their believed ability to increase stamina and calm anger.
Peridot, the August birthstone, has been prized as a jewelry stone since ancient times. Always green in color, its specific shade varies depending on its source. Peridots were believed to protect wearers during the night, fostering associations with the sun and repelling evil spirits.
Gemological Properties and Considerations
The value of a birthstone is determined by a combination of factors, including carat weight, color, clarity, and cut. Each gemstone possesses unique gemological properties that influence its appearance and durability. For example, rubies and sapphires are both forms of corundum, differing only in their trace elements that create their respective colors. Emeralds often contain inclusions, which are considered part of their character, while diamonds are graded on a scale of color and clarity. Understanding these properties is crucial for both appreciating the beauty of a gemstone and making informed purchasing decisions.