Ten Precious Stones More Rare than Diamonds

Tanzanite

Burma Ruby

Although all rubies are rare, those from Myanmar (formerly Burma) are the gold standard for quality and color and are exceptionally scarce. Rubies from Thailand often have higher iron content, resulting in darker reds with brownish or purplish overtones. In contrast, the geological conditions in Myanmar generally yield rubies with minimal trace iron, producing vivid reds with stronger fluorescence. That said, a high-quality Thai ruby can compete with the finest from Myanmar. Rubies with the coveted “pigeon blood” color are always in high demand.

Jadeite

Noted for the bright electric green of imperial jade, jadeite occurs in various colors, including lavender, yellow, orange-red, blue, black, and colorless. Highly valued in Chinese and Mayan cultures, this stone has an extensive folklore. Jadeite’s value hinges on its translucence and texture, with top-quality pieces appearing as if filled with water or resembling a drop of colored oil. Still, pricing jade requires more subjectivity compared to most gemstones. The craftsmanship of the piece is crucial. There’s a Chinese saying: “Gold has value; jade is invaluable.”

Alexandrite

Discovered in 1830 in Russia’s Ural Mountains, alexandrite is renowned for its remarkable ability to change color. This occurs due to trace amounts of chromium in its crystal structure, making the stone appear emerald green to peacock blue in daylight and ruby red to purple under incandescent light. During Imperial Russia’s era, the colors red and green were in vogue, making this gemstone highly coveted by the aristocracy. Named after Czar Alexander, this chrysoberyl variety is still rare. Though now found in Brazil and several other locations, alexandrite remains one of the rarest gemstones. It is a modern June birthstone, often synthesized for jewelry.

Paraíba Tourmaline

The gem world was stunned by the brightly saturated blue-green hues of paraíba tourmaline when it was discovered in the Brazilian state of Paraíba during the 1980s. This led to a rush of prospectors and miners into the region. The price per carat for these gems soared quickly and continues to rise, but Brazil isn’t the only source for these neon-hued stones. Similar geological conditions produced these copper-bearing gems in Mozambique and Nigeria. Despite this, paraíba tourmaline remains one of the rarest gem varieties.

Ammolite

In 1981, the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) recognized ammolite as a new organic gem. Found in limited deposits in the Rocky Mountains, this gem is far rarer than diamonds. Made from the aragonite shells of marine mollusks that are over 65 million years old, ammolite exhibits bright, iridescent colors. A single specimen can display any color of the rainbow, or even the entire rainbow. Unique ammolite gems increase in value for rare colors, intense iridescence, play of color, and how much the stone can be turned while the color remains visible. Today, the majority of ammolite on the market is mined by Korite International.

Measuring 4.2 x 2.2 cm, the ammolite in this pendant stands out. Observe the captivating color transitions as the ammolite rotates through this slideshow. Embellished with diamonds and a 6 mm Akoya pearl, this pendant dazzles even without its accompanying earrings. “Garden of Giverny” © Korite International. Used with permission.

Kashmir Sapphire

Kashmir sapphires are known for their soft, velvety, and deeply saturated blue shades. These gems feature incredibly fine rutile inclusions that contribute to their unique appearance. The once-prolific mines located in the Himalayas ceased production in the 1930s. Consequently, the value of these exceptionally rare stones continues to soar. Though few will ever have the opportunity to own one, many museums exhibit these gems. They are certainly worth seeing.

Natural Pearl

While pearls are common in jewelry, they would be scarce without the cultured pearl industry. Natural pearls are increasingly rare, with their rarity growing annually. Factors such as overfishing, pollution, and ocean acidification have resulted in natural pearls appearing more often in antique jewelry than contemporary finds. Natural pearls are typically not perfectly round and may be discolored. Hence, while cultured pearls are often judged by their roundness and uniformity, natural pearl strands usually exhibit more imperfections.

Red Beryl

Red beryl, a relative of the emerald, aquamarine, and morganite, derives its vivid red color from manganese. Once known as bixbite, red beryl is among the most rare and coveted gemstones.

Boasting good wearability, red beryl can be a superb choice for jewelry. That is, if you can find one! Most gem-quality red beryl is discovered in Utah’s Wah Wah mountains. However, many of these specimens remain with mineral collectors, never being faceted.

In this video, Jake Talve-Goodman of The Concierge Gemologist explains the color, inclusions, and symbolism of red beryl.

Benitoite

This exceedingly rare gemstone not only surpasses diamond in rarity but also boasts a higher “fire” or dispersion. Coupled with its often sapphire-blue hue, it’s no wonder benitoite is a much sought-after gem. Only found in San Benito County, California, this stone holds the title of California state’s gem. Buyers should weigh the choice between a deep, saturated sapphire blue with less noticeable dispersion and a lighter-toned gem with brilliant fire.

Explore More Gemstones Rarer than Diamond

Interested in learning about other gemstones that are rarer than diamond? Browse our details on black opal, padparadscha sapphire, Russian demantoid, Oregon sunstone, and moldavite!