Gemstones have different meanings to different people. Occurring naturally across the planet, they are often used for decoration, while many see religious symbolism, healing powers, and personal meaning in gemstones. The diamond is only one example of a treasured gem. Rare gems are valued for their charm as well as their size, grade, and color.
TANZANITE
The most valuable and prized gemstones in the world today are:
Discovered in 1967, Tanzanite is found only in northern Tanzania in the Mirerani Hills (in just a 4.3 x 1.2 mile mining area). It has a deep blue-violet hue and has been included in jewelry since Tiffany and Co. started using it. Supplies of tanzanite are being depleted, so its value is likely to continue going up.
BLACK OPAL
Opals in general are quite valuable, black opal topping the list in terms of desire and value. The stone is dark but has a surprising array of color. Most black opal gems come from the Lighting Ridge area of New South Wales, Australia. The largest is the “Royal One”, a 306-carat gemstone valued at $3 million.
MUSGRAVITE
A rare gemstone, musgravite was discovered in the Musgrave Ranges of Australia. It is an aluminum oxide stone with iron, zinc, and magnesium. Musgravite is so rare only eight gem-quality stones were mined in 2005. Valued at nearly $35,000 per carat, it ranges in color from translucent olive green to a greyish purple.
