The Most Expensive Pure Gems in the World

Some gemstones are so rare we are unlikely to ever see them in person. In fact, they can sell for thousands of pounds per carat, making them available amongst the wealthy only. These stones are sought after by museums and avid collectors, and are unlikely to ever be found in pieces at local jewellers.

What gemstones are ranked the most expensive, rare and valuable as of time of writing?

gems.jpgPadparadscha Sapphire

Padparadscha Sapphire are an extremely rare gemstone that are found mostly inSri Lanka, though they have also been found in parts ofMadagascarandTanzania. This sapphire comes in a variety of different colours, but the pink medium tones are the most favoured. The average price of Padparadscha sapphires per carat is around £6,000.

Red Beryl

We’ve previously spoken about the rarity and cost of the Red Beryl gem, and it still sits in the top 4. This gem has only been found inUtahandNew Mexico, having first been discovered in 1904. Red Beryls are extremely rare due to the unique conditions required for the stone to form. On average, the Red Beryl can fetch around £7,500 per carat.

Alexandrite

Alexandrite is one of the official birthstones for the month of June. Green in sunlight and red in iridescent light, it is one of the only gems that changes colours, making it extremely sought after and enchanting. The stone was discovered in 1830Russia, and is worth around £9,000 per carat for high quality pieces.

Jadeite

Jadeite has a rare and unassuming appearance compared to other gemstones. However, it is still one of the most valuable pure gems in the world. Jadeite is much rarer than other types of jade, which makes it worth a lot more. Some very fine pieces of jadeite have sold for over £750,000 per carat, but on average, it will sell for around £15,000 per carat.

Musgravite

Musgravite was discovered recently, inAustralia1967. It was later found inMadagascarandGreenland, and the first gem-quality specimen was discovered only 25 years ago, in 1993. The rare nature of this stone means consumers are unlikely to ever come across it on the open market. If you do get your hands on it, it will need to be submitted to a gemmology lab for testing. On average, Musgravite has fetched around £26,000 per carat.

We may not have the above gemstones at Cuttings, but we do have a range of fantastic pieces available like these stunning ruby earrings and this pink sapphire solitaire ring.

For more information, you can get in touch with the Cuttings team by going to our contact page or visiting us in store. 

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