Birthstones carry a history as rich and dazzling as the gems themselves, tracing their roots to ancient traditions. But when it comes to value, not all birthstones shine equally.
From the ultra-rare alexandrite commanding up to $70,000 per carat to the more accessible citrine at just $10 per carat, these stones reflect a wide spectrum of rarity, beauty, and cultural significance. Here’s a ranked look at the 12 birthstones and their current value per carat.
1. Alexandrite
This rare color-changing gem commands astronomical prices, shifting from emerald green in daylight to ruby red under artificial light. Natural alexandrite of fine quality can fetch between $15,000 to $70,000 per carat, making it the undisputed champion of birthstone value.
- Birth Month: June
- Color: Color-changing (green/red)
- Price Range: $15,000-$70,000 per carat
- Notable Feature: Only discovered in 1830 in Russia’s Ural Mountains
2. Diamond
The world’s most famous gemstone ranks second in birthstone value. These crystalline carbon formations are prized for their exceptional brilliance and unmatched hardness.
- Birth Month: April
- Color: Typically colorless
- Price Range: $3,500-$10,000 per carat
- Notable Feature: Hardest natural substance on Earth
3. Ruby
This fiery red gem has been revered since ancient times. Fine rubies above one carat are exceptionally rare, and top-quality stones command premium prices.
- Birth Month: July
- Color: Red
- Price Range: $3,000-$12,000 per carat
- Notable Feature: Second hardest gemstone after diamond
4. Emerald
The verdant beauty of emeralds has enchanted royalty for millennia. Colombian emeralds are particularly sought after for their deep green color and exceptional clarity.
- Birth Month: May
- Color: Green
- Price Range: $3,000-$5,000 per carat
- Notable Feature: Most valuable green gemstone
5. Sapphire
These regal blue gems have adorned crown jewels throughout history. Kashmir sapphires are especially prized for their velvety cornflower blue color.
- Birth Month: September
- Color: Blue (primarily)
- Price Range: $2,000-$10,000 per carat
- Notable Feature: Comes in all colors except red
6. Tanzanite
This relatively new discovery is found exclusively in Tanzania. Its pleochroic nature produces stunning blue-violet hues.
- Birth Month: December
- Color: Blue-violet
- Price Range: $1,000-$1,500 per carat
- Notable Feature: Only found in one location worldwide
7. Aquamarine
This serene blue gem evokes the tranquility of ocean waters. Its clarity and color make it a popular choice for statement pieces.
- Birth Month: March
- Color: Light blue to blue-green
- Price Range: $800-$1,000 per carat
- Notable Feature: Excellent clarity characteristics
8. Peridot
This olive-green gem is one of the few that comes in only one color. Ancient Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun.”
- Birth Month: August
- Color: Olive green
- Price Range: $400-$650 per carat
- Notable Feature: Found in meteorites
9. Garnet
These deep red gems were popular in Victorian jewelry. While commonly red, garnets can occur in virtually every color.
- Birth Month: January
- Color: Various (primarily red)
- Price Range: $500-$600 per carat
- Notable Feature: Wide variety of colors available
10. Opal
This mesmerizing gem displays a unique play-of-color phenomenon that creates a rainbow-like effect. Known as the Queen of Gemstones, opal forms when silica spheres stack in a pattern that diffracts light into spectacular color displays.
- Birth Month: October
- Color: Multi-colored with white or black base
- Price Range: $100-$500 per carat
- Notable Feature: Only gemstone that can naturally display all colors of the rainbow
11. Amethyst
Once considered as valuable as ruby, this purple quartz variety became more abundant after large deposits were discovered.
- Birth Month: February
- Color: Purple
- Price Range: $50-$90 per carat
- Notable Feature: Most valuable quartz variety
12. Citrine
This sunny gem is the most affordable birthstone. Natural citrine is rare, and most commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst.
- Birth Month: November
- Color: Yellow to orange
- Price Range: $10-$50 per carat
- Notable Feature: Most affordable birthstone
Remember that factors like size, quality, origin, and market demand can significantly influence individual gem prices. Ultimately, the true value of a birthstone often transcends its market price, carrying personal meaning and centuries of cultural significance for its wearer.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.