Semi-precious gemstones possess beauty comparable to precious stones. Let’s delve into how their values stack up against each other.
Keyword(s): Semi-precious gemstones
The earth holds some of its most beautiful treasures in the form of gemstones. These gems, set into jewelry, create luxurious items that enhance the elegance and sophistication of your wardrobe.
Gems fall into two main categories: precious and semi-precious. A discerning buyer may ask: what distinguishes the two?
This article aims to answer that question and more. We’ll also explore the most sought-after semi-precious gemstones and evaluate their value. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about these striking and rare gems.
What Are Semi-Precious Gemstones?
So, how does one define a semi-precious gemstone? The explanation is straightforward.
There are four precious stones: diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. All other gemstones fall under the category of semi-precious. This includes aquamarine, alexandrite, rose quartz, pearl, amethyst, and many others.
A common myth is that semi-precious gemstones are less valuable than precious ones. In reality, some semi-precious stones can be more valuable. For example, alexandrite often fetches higher prices compared to sapphire.
A gemstone’s value is actually influenced by multiple factors. These factors are collectively known as the four C’s: carats, clarity, color, and cut.
Now, let’s compare the values of a few popular semi-precious gemstones.
Amethyst
Amethyst is an extremely popular semi-precious stone, renowned for its vibrant purple and violet shades. These shades can range from light pinkish-violet to deep purples.
While deep, rich purples are rarer and more coveted among collectors, they do lack the sparkling quality seen in the lighter hues. For the liveliest and most vibrant pieces, opt for stones in the medium to medium-dark range.
Amethyst is also celebrated as the birthstone for February, making it a favored gift for individuals born in that month.
Amethyst is both durable and affordable. High-quality cut stones typically range from $20 to $30 per carat, with exceptionally fine pieces reaching up to $40 per carat.
Peridot
Peridot, a brightly colored yellow-green gemstone, naturally forms from lava flows and has been treasured since the days of Ancient Egypt. Jewelry enthusiasts prize peridot for its vibrant green tones, a desirable alternative to emerald green.
Peridot comes in three varieties based on where they are mined: Changbai peridots from Northeast China, Pakistani peridots from Kashmir, and Hunan peridots from Southeastern China. Each type has distinct hues and qualities.
This gemstone is also the birthstone for August.
Peridot prices can range from $50 to $80 per carat, with larger, high-quality stones fetching as much as $400 to $450 per carat.
Rose Quartz
Rose quartz, a rare type of crystalline quartz, showcases lovely light to medium pink hues. Sometimes, the presence of amethyst can add a purplish tint to these stones.
Though most rose quartz is milky and opaque, transparent varieties discovered in Madagascar during the 1980s have been cut and used in fine jewelry such as wedding rings.
Transparent and translucent rose quartz stones sell at higher prices compared to opaque ones. These stones typically start at around $100 per carat, with premium specimens exceeding $1,000 per carat.
Amber
Amber, formed from the crystallized resin of ancient pine trees, is famous for its fossil inclusions. Its use in jewelry dates back over 10,000 years, making it one of the earliest gem materials.
Amber jewelry comes in several colors such as black, red, yellow, and white. The most valuable color varies depending on current trends and consumer preferences.
Currently, white and red amber are the rarest and cost about $11 and $12 per carat respectively. Yellow or gold amber, without inclusions, is currently the most valuable at $14 per carat.
The region where amber is mined, such as the Baltic or Ukraine, can also affect its price, with these varieties generally being more expensive than those from Russia, the Dominican Republic, or Mexico.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine, noted for its coloration ranging from pale to dark blue, and soms times a greenish-blue tint, is another popular semi-precious stone.
Recent attention has been drawn to this stone, thanks to Prince Harry gifting Meghan Markle an estimated $87,000 aquamarine ring. Additionally, she wore Princess Diana’s iconic aquamarine and diamond-encrusted cocktail ring during their wedding reception, further boosting the gem’s popularity and value.
Alongside being a popular gift for those born in March, the month’s birthstone, aquamarine prices depend on the depth and quality of its color and clarity, increasing with carat size.
For instance, a one-carat aquamarine is priced around $675 per carat, while stones between two to three carats can range from $1,000 to $1,500 per carat.
Wearing Semi-Precious Gemstones
More individuals are now incorporating semi-precious gemstones into their wardrobes, as these elegant and timeless jewelry pieces can significantly enhance any outfit.
Understanding the different qualities and values of the most popular semi-precious stones allows you to make informed decisions that align with your personal style.
If this article was helpful, feel free to explore our other pieces on purchasing and styling fine jewelry today.
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