Gemstones have fascinated people for centuries, not only for their beauty but also for their meaning and value.
While the symbolic meanings attached to gemstones have no scientific backing, they have been woven into cultures and traditions worldwide, adding to their charm and allure.
The Mohs Hardness Scale, developed by the International Gem Society, also helps us understand the durability of these stones.1
1. Diamond
Diamonds are known for their incredible hardness and brilliance, scoring a perfect 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. They are often valued for their clarity and color, with colorless diamonds being the most prized.
The most valuable gemstones can sell for over $500,000 per carat (with 1 carat equal to 0.2 grams), and some pieces can be worth more than $20 million. (ref)
Diamonds symbolize love and commitment, making them popular in engagement rings. Diamonds are primarily found in countries like South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia.
2. Ruby
Rubies, a type of corundum, are valued for their vibrant red color and rarity. They can be more expensive than diamonds, especially if they have a deep, rich hue without too many inclusions.
Rubies are considered symbols of passion, protection, and prosperity. They are mainly found in Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
3. Sapphire
Sapphires are known for their stunning blue color, though they come in various hues. They are highly durable, scoring 9 on the Mohs scale.
The most valued sapphires display a deep, velvety blue. Historically, sapphires have been associated with wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Sapphires are primarily sourced from Sri Lanka, Kashmir, Madagascar, and Australia.
4. Emerald
Emeralds are cherished for their lush green color. They are rarer than diamonds and rubies, particularly when they are large and possess high clarity. Inclusions, known as “jardin,” are often acceptable and can enhance the stone’s character.
Emeralds symbolize rebirth, love, and fertility. They are mainly found in Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil.
5. Amethyst
Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz and is valued for its rich colors and accessibility. It is often considered a protective stone and is associated with calmness, balance, and peace.
The most valuable amethysts are deep purple with red flashes. Major sources of amethyst include Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.
6. Topaz
Topaz is known for its variety of colors, including blue, yellow, and pink. It is a durable gemstone, ranking 8 on the Mohs scale.
Blue topaz is particularly popular, and the stone is believed to promote communication and truth. Topaz is primarily found in Brazil, Nigeria, and Russia.
7. Opal
Opals display a unique play of color in a wide range of hues. They are softer than many other gemstones, ranking between 5.5 and 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
Opals are associated with creativity and inspiration, making them popular among artists. Major sources of opal include Australia, Mexico, and Ethiopia.
8. Turquoise
Turquoise is valued for its striking blue-green color and is often used in Native American jewelry. It is believed to bring good fortune and protection.
Turquoise has been cherished for thousands of years and is a symbol of friendship and peace. Turquoise is mainly found in the United States (especially in the Southwest), Iran, and China.
9. Garnet
Garnet is often valued for its vibrant red color, but it comes in many colors. It’s relatively affordable compared to other gemstones. Traditionally, garnet symbolizes passion, love, and commitment.
The name comes from the Latin word “Garanatus,” meaning “seed-like,” due to its resemblance to pomegranate seeds. It is believed to bring peace, harmony, and health. Garnet is found in countries such as India, Brazil, and Madagascar.
10. Aquamarine
Aquamarine has a range of prices depending on its color and clarity, typically more valuable than garnet but less than diamonds. Known as the “stone of the sea,” aquamarine represents calmness, tranquility, and emotional clarity.
It is said to protect sailors and ensure a safe voyage, making it a popular choice for jewelry. Aquamarine is mainly sourced from Brazil, Nigeria, and Madagascar.
11. Pearl
Pearls symbolize purity, innocence, and wisdom. They have been associated with femininity and are often given as gifts for special occasions like weddings. Pearls can vary widely in price based on size, shape, and quality.
Natural pearls are much rarer and often more valuable than cultured ones. Natural pearls are primarily found in the Persian Gulf, while cultured pearls are commonly produced in Japan, China, and Australia.
12. Peridot
Peridot is generally affordable, although high-quality stones can be quite valuable. This olive-green gemstone is associated with the sun and represents strength, renewal, and balance.
It is said to bring good luck and protect against negative emotions. Peridot is primarily found in the United States (especially Arizona), China, and Myanmar.
13. Tanzanite
Known for its stunning blue-violet color, tanzanite symbolizes spirituality, prosperity, and enlightenment. It is often regarded as a stone of transformation, encouraging self-discovery.
Due to its rarity, tanzanite is considered one of the more valuable gemstones. It is exclusively sourced from a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
14. Tourmaline
Tourmaline is a colorful gemstone that comes in many shades, including pink, green, and blue. Each color is believed to have different meanings; for example, pink tourmaline symbolizes love and compassion, while green tourmaline is linked to healing and balance.
Tourmaline is often valued for its beauty and versatility in jewelry. The price can vary widely based on the color and quality, with some rarer colors being more expensive. Tourmaline is primarily found in Brazil, the United States (especially California), and Afghanistan.
15. Citrine
Citrine is a yellow to golden-orange gemstone that is associated with positivity and energy. It symbolizes joy, success, and abundance, making it popular among those seeking prosperity.
Citrine is often called the “merchant’s stone” because it is believed to attract wealth. This gemstone is relatively affordable, with prices usually lower than diamonds and rubies. Citrine is commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Russia.
16. Zircon
Zircon is a natural gemstone that can be various colors, including blue, green, and brown. It is often confused with cubic zirconia, a synthetic stone, but zircon is a natural mineral. Zircon symbolizes wisdom, honor, and prosperity.
It is also thought to promote mental clarity. Zircon can be quite valuable, especially in its blue variety, with prices varying based on quality and color. This gemstone is found in countries like Cambodia, Australia, and Sri Lanka.
17. Spinel
Spinel is a gemstone that comes in a range of colors, including red, blue, and pink. It is known for its brilliance and durability. Spinel symbolizes energy and revitalization, making it popular among those seeking renewal and strength.
Although it has historically been less valued than rubies or sapphires, it has gained recognition in recent years, with prices increasing. Spinel is mainly found in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
18. Red Beryl
Red beryl, also known as bixbite, is an extremely rare gemstone with a vibrant red color. It symbolizes passion and vitality, making it a favorite among collectors.
Due to its rarity, red beryl can be very valuable, often costing more than rubies of comparable size. This gemstone is primarily found in the United States, specifically in Utah and New Mexico. (ref)
19. Jadeite
Jadeite is a type of jade that is highly valued for its beauty and rarity. It is often associated with purity, serenity, and good fortune. Jadeite can come in various colors, but the most prized shades are deep green and lavender.
It is considered a symbol of wisdom and balance. Due to its high demand, top-quality jadeite can be quite expensive. This gem is mainly found in Myanmar (Burma).
20. Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli is a deep blue stone often speckled with gold or white. This gemstone symbolizes wisdom, truth, and spiritual growth. It is believed to enhance intellectual ability and stimulate the desire for knowledge.
Lapis Lazuli can be quite valuable, especially when it has a rich color and minimal inclusions.
It has been used in jewelry and ornamentation for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations like Egypt and Mesopotamia. The main sources of lapis lazuli are Afghanistan, particularly the Badakhshan region, and parts of Chile.
21. Jasper
Jasper is a type of chalcedony that comes in many colors and patterns, often featuring swirls or spots. It symbolizes stability, balance, and protection. Jasper is known as a nurturing stone that provides support during times of stress.
It is generally affordable, with prices depending on the type and quality. Jasper can be found in many places around the world, including the United States, Brazil, and Australia.
22. Pyrite
Pyrite, also known as “fool’s gold” because of its metallic luster and pale brass-yellow hue, symbolizes protection and good luck. It is believed to attract wealth and abundance.
Pyrite is often valued for its unique appearance and is used in jewelry and decorative items. It is relatively inexpensive, making it accessible to many. Pyrite can be found in various locations, including Spain, Peru, and the United States.
23. Moldavite
Moldavite is a unique green stone that is formed from a meteorite impact. It symbolizes transformation and change, often associated with spiritual growth and emotional healing.
Moldavite is quite rare and valuable, with prices that can be quite high, especially for top-quality pieces. It is primarily found in the Czech Republic, where the meteorite hit millions of years ago.
24. Labradorite
Labradorite is a striking stone known for its iridescent play of colors, often displaying blues, greens, and golds. This gemstone symbolizes intuition and protection, believed to enhance mental and spiritual abilities.
Labradorite can vary in price, with higher-quality stones being more valuable. It is primarily found in Canada, but can also be sourced from Madagascar, Finland, and Russia.
25. Alexandrite
Alexandrite is a gemstone known for its ability to change color. In daylight, it often appears green or bluish-green, while under incandescent light, it shifts to a reddish or purplish hue.
With an 8.5 hardiness on the Mohs scale, it can sell for up to $15,000 per carat for sizes up to one carat. For larger stones over one carat, prices can go as high as $50,000 to $70,000 per carat. (ref)
It was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 1830s and was named after Tsar Alexander II. Today, it is also found in countries like Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
These gemstones can enhance not only jewelry but also our lives. Understanding the symbolism and value of each gemstone can deepen our appreciation for these natural treasures.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.