The world of gemstones is a fascinating one. There are so many different types of gems, each with their own unique properties and colors. Some gems are more common than others, while others are much rarer. In this article, we will discuss ten of the most rare and unique gemstones in the world. These gems are sure to amaze and astound you!
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is the blue to violet variety of the mineral zoisite, discovered in 1967 in Tanzania. The occurrence of gem quality tanzanite is extremely rare, occurring in less than one percent of all zoisite specimens. All tanzanites are heat treated to improve their color, and over 95% of them are heated to about 500 degrees Fahrenheit for four hours. Without such treatment, most tanzanites would be a pale brownish yellow.
The name “tanzanite” was derived from its geographic origin. Stones that show no sign of heating are more highly valued; these stones command a premium price and are known as “high temperature” stones. Heat treating also makes the gems more resistant to scratches and other blemishes.
As one of the rarest gemstones in the world, the price of tanzanite has risen rapidly in recent years. But its beautiful blue-violet color makes it worth the price. The most valuable blue stones are a deep, intense blue with no hints of brown or violet. Tanzanites with strong trichroism (the ability to show three colors when viewed from different angles) are also highly valued. Large stones over 20 carats are extremely rare.
Black Opal
When most people think of opals, they typically think of the common white opal. However, there is a much more rare and impressive variety of opal known as the black opal. Black opals are so named because of their dark body color, which can be almost black. They are highly sought after by collectors and gem enthusiasts for their beauty and unique lustrous appearance. Unlike many other types of gems, black opals are not found in large deposits, making them quite scarce and consequently expensive.
The black opal is a rare and precious stone that has been prized by humans for centuries. This mesmerizing gemstone is found in a variety of colors, but the most sought-after variety is the black opal, which is said to bring good fortune to those who wear it. Black opals are mined in Australia and other parts of the world, and they can be expensive, but they are well worth the price.
Taaffeite
The mineral taaffeite is a striking blue-green color and is one of the rarest gems in the world. Discovered in 1945, it is named after Count Leo Taaffe, an Irish gemologist who first found the stone. Most people have never heard of the gemstone taaffeite, but those in the know hold it in high regard. Prized for its rarity and beauty, taaffeite is often called “the greatest find in twentieth century jewelry.” This delicate stone can be found in shades of pink, purple, and blue, and is said to bring good luck to its wearer.
Although small amounts of taaffeite are still being unearthed today, it remains one of the world’s most valuable gems. Despite its rarity, no large taaffeite crystals have been found, making this beautiful stone even more coveted by collectors.
Poudretteite
A rare, natural mineral found in Quebec, Canada, Poudretteite is one of the world’s most expensive gemstones. Named for the Poudrette family who first discovered it in 1987, this unusual stone is a brilliant blue with a pink cast. Prized for its rarity and beauty, Poudretteite fetches high prices at auction. It’s considered a gemstone, and has been used in jewelry and other decorative items. The color of poudretteite can vary from pink to light purple, and the clarity can range from translucent to opaque. Specimens with high quality crystals are highly coveted by collectors.
Despite being discovered over 30 years ago, poudretteite is still quite rare, which only adds to its appeal. Mineral enthusiasts will appreciate the uniqueness of this stone, as well as its breathtaking beauty. In May of 2013, a 2.27 carat stone sold for $166,000 at Christie’s Hong Kong! A 1.03 carat specimen was auctioned off for $57,600 just two months later.
Larimar
What is larimar? The question has been popping up more and more lately, as this Caribbean stone with a mesmerizing blue hue gains in popularity. Larimar is a type of pectolite, which is a mineral composed of sodium, calcium, aluminum, magnesium, and silicon. It forms in secondary lagoons as the water evaporates. The only place it can be found naturally is in the Dominican Republic. Larimar ranges in color from deep blue to sky blue, with white and teal flecks. Some pieces even have an orange or pink hue. Its nickname is “the Atlantis Stone” because of its resemblance to the lost underwater city.
Larimar beads are used in jewelry making and can also be carved into shapes or polished for use in other decorative items. The stone is believed to have healing properties and is used in metaphysical practices. It is said to promote serenity, peace, and relaxation. If you’re lucky enough to find a piece of larimar, be sure to hold on to it! Prices for the gemstone can go up as high as $1,000 per carat.
Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a rare gemstone that has been prized for its unique color since it was first discovered in Russia in 1830. The gemstone gets its name from Tsar Alexander II, who supposedly wore an alexandrite ring. Its beautiful light pinkish-red to deep purple color is unlike any other stone and makes alexandrite one of the most sought after gems in the world. Although it is not as common as other gemstones, alexandrite can still be found in jewelry stores and online.
A gemstone as rare and unique as Alexandrite doesn’t come around often. With its delicate balance of green and purple, it is often considered a treasure for those who know how to appreciate it. Chances are you won’t find many Alexandrites out in the open, but that doesn’t mean they’re not worth looking for. With such a rich history, this stone is definitely one worth owning.
Benitoite
California’s state gem, benitoite, was first discovered in 1907 near the head of San Benito River. The facets of this blue to bluish violet mineral exhibit a 6-pointed star when cut correctly. It is one of the rarest minerals on earth and is only found in a small area near the California-Nevada border. Benitoite can be faceted and used in jewelry, but it is more commonly set into specimens or used in scientific research because of its rarity.
Despite being called the “State Gem” of California, benitoite has never been found in commercial quantities, making it one of the most expensive gems available. Rarity and beauty make benitoite gems some of the most coveted items among collectors around the world. But in recent years, benitoite has become more popular with jewelers and gem cutters, resulting in some beautiful and creative jewelry designs.
Paraiba Tourmaline
What could be more enchanting than a deep blue Paraiba tourmaline? A recent study has found that these mesmerizing gems may also have health benefits. Researchers at the University of Tucson studied the effects of Paraiba tourmalines on human cells and found that they have anti-inflammatory properties. The study’s authors believe that these stones could be used to help treat conditions such as arthritis and asthma.
Discovered in Brazil in the 1980s, these tourmalines are found in a range of colors, including blue, green, pink, and yellow. The most coveted Pariba tourmalines are those that show a rainbow of colors. Because of their rarity and beautiful colors, Pariba tourmalines can fetch high prices at auction. In late 2017, an 8-carat Pariba tourmaline sold for over $1 million dollars! If you’re lucky enough to find a Pariba tourmaline gemstone, be prepared to pay a pretty penny for it!
Red Beryl
Red beryl, also known as morganite, is a beautiful pinkish-red gemstone that is highly sought-after by collectors. Although it is not as rare as some other gems, red beryl can be difficult to find in nature, making it a coveted treasure. Red beryl typically forms in cavities and fractures in rhyolite or pegmatite. The most prized specimens are the deepest red and have no black spots. Red beryl is often set in jewelry to accentuate its rich color. If you’re lucky enough to own a piece of red beryl, take good care of it! The Gemological Institute of America rates red beryl as a 7 on their hardness scale, meaning it’s quite durable and can withstand everyday wear.
This unique stone can be found in shades of pink, purple, and red, and is often compared to rubies and sapphires in terms of its beauty and rarity. Red beryl is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, and prices for high quality specimens can exceed $10,000 per carat! If you’re lucky enough to own a piece of red beryl jewelry, you’re sure to stand out from the crowd.
Musgravite
A prized and rare gemstone, musgravite is coveted for its unique and mesmerizing dark green hue. This semi-precious stone can be found in just a few places on Earth, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item. Musgravite is said to bring good luck and peace to those who own it, and is often given as a token of love or friendship.
This dark, enigmatic gemstone was first discovered in Australia in 1876, but its origins remain a mystery. Even today, we still don’t know exactly where musgravite comes from. What we do know, however, is that this rare gemstone is one of the most beautiful and coveted minerals in the world. Musgravite can only be found in a few very specific locations on Earth, so if you’re lucky enough to own a piece of musgravite jewelry, you’re holding something truly special.
Conclusion
While all gemstones hold some value and are unique in their own way, the 10 gemstones on this list are some of the rarest and most unique gems in the world. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind stone to add to your collection, any of these ten options would be a great choice. Have you seen any of these rare gemstones in person? What was your reaction?
