Are you wondering what gemstones are worth? You’re in luck because we’ve put together a complete list of gems by value. Whether you’re ready to make a purchase or are just curious about the worth of different gems, our gemstone price chart is here to assist.
From diamonds to amethyst, get ready to know how much each stone cost with our handy price guide. More to the point, do gemstones fall into any value-based classifications? That’s taken care of, too!
Starting off, let’s analyze the different types of gemstones according to their monetary worth.
Types of Gems Based on Their Value Quotient
There are four types of gemstones, distinguished by their relative valuable commodity:
Precious Gems
These are the most valuable gems and include diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. The excellent quality and relative rarity of precious gemstones are their defining characteristics. They are also the most expensive on the market, ranging in price from hundreds to thousands per carat.
Most precious jewels are also quite durable, making them ideal for everyday wear. On the Mohs scale of hardness, diamonds have the highest rating (10), followed by sapphires (9), rubies (9), and emeralds (7.5-8). Moreover, these stones are all known for their exquisite beauty and rich historical background.
Semi-Precious Gems
These are gems that have a slightly lower value compared to precious gemstones. Semi-precious gems include a wide range of stones, such as turquoise, jade, aquamarine, tanzanite, spinel, tourmaline, and onyx.
Though not as rare or valuable, semi-precious gems are still quite beautiful and often sought after for jewelry. Most of these stones are also quite hard, with a Mohs scale ranking from 6-7.5. A few semi-precious gems even have harder rankings, such as garnet (6.5-7.5) and peridot (7).
Organic Gems
These jewels, as the name implies, are the result of nature’s sculpting. Though not as hard or valuable as precious and semi-precious gems, organic gems still carry a certain beauty and charm. The most common examples of organic gems include amber, coral, ivory, pearl, and jet.
Synthetic Gems
Synthetic gemstones are man-made versions of naturally occurring gems. Although manufactured in a laboratory environment, these stones are chemically and physically identical to natural gems.
Synthetic gemstones can have higher clarity than their naturally occurring counterparts and, hence, are more valuable. Some of the most popular synthetic gems include simulated diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds.
Also See: Gemstone List – Understand the Meaning of All Gemstones
Factors that Affect the Value of a Gemstone
Now, on what basis can we determine the value of a gemstone? The answer is simple – by considering the main factors that make up its value.
Here are the top 5 factors that will affect the value of a gemstone:
Rarity
The rarer a gemstone, the more expensive it will be. It’s the same principle as with diamonds – the smaller and rarer, the higher the price tag.
Color & Clarity
High-quality gems have vivid saturation and precise clarity—the more even-toned and saturated, the better the grade of a gemstone.
Cut & Carat Weight
The precision of the cut is also a crucial factor in determining a gem’s value. This applies to both the shape and symmetry of the cut.
Origin/Authenticity
Where a gemstone is from can also affect its worth. Certain countries are well known for their gemstone production. For instance, ruby from Burma is much more expensive than ruby from Madagascar.
Demand & Supply
As with any commodity, the gemstone market is subject to demand and supply dynamics. If a certain gemstone is rare and in high demand, it will be more expensive.
List of Gems Categorized by Value and Price
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the gem prices, let’s look at our list of gemstones in order of their value and worth.
Gemstone Price Chart
| Gemstone Name | Value | Price Range (Per Carat) |
| Diamond | Precious Stone | $1000-$100,000 |
| Sapphire | Precious Stone | $500-$15,000 |
| Rubies | Precious Stone | $1000-$100,000 |
| Emeralds | Precious Stone | $250-$20,000 |
| Tanzanite | Semi-precious Stone | $100-$1000 |
| Aquamarine | Semi-precious Stone | $50-$1,000 |
| Tsavorite | Semi-precious Stone | $50-$1000 |
| Spessartite | Semi-precious Stone | $50-$500 |
| Morganite | Semi-precious Stone | $50-$200 |
| Rubellite | Semi-precious Stone | $25-$500 |
| Tourmaline | Semi-precious Stone | $15-$500 |
| Amethyst | Semi-precious Stone | $10-$500 |
| Swiss Blue Topaz | Semi-precious Stone | $25-$400 |
| London Blue Topaz | Semi-precious Stone | $20-$200 |
| Citrine | Semi-precious Stone | $25-$300 |
| Kyanite | Semi-precious Stone | $25-$200 |
| Chrysoberyl | Semi-precious Stone | $20-$300 |
| Garnet | Semi-precious Stone | $5-$200 |
| Peridot | Semi-precious Stone | $5-$150 |
| Opal | Semi-precious Stone | $5-$500 |
| Turquoise | Semi-precious Stone | $5-$200 |
| Jade | Semi-precious Stone | $5-$500 |
| Spinel | Semi-precious Stone | $10-$200 |
| Rose Quartz | Semiprecious Stone | $10-$200 |
| Smoky Quartz | Semiprecious Stone | $10-$300 |
| Zircon | Semi-precious Stone | $15-$100 |
| Moonstone | Semi-precious Stone | $10-$250 |
| Rhodolite | Semi-precious Stone | $15-$150 |
| Fire Opal | Semi-precious Stone | $5-$50 |
| Fluorite | Semiprecious Stone | $5-$150 |
| Iolite | Semiprecious Stone | $5-$200 |
| Amber | Organic Gem | $5-$300 |
| Ivory | Organic Gem | $5-$300 |
| Coral | Organic Gem | $5-$500 |
| Pearls | Organic Gem | $5-$10,000 |
| Lab-Created Gems | Synthetic Gems | $5-$200 |
List of Popular Precious Gemstones
Getting lost in the Gemstone Market? No worries, here’s the precious gemstones list you should be familiar with, along with their value and things that affect their price chart:
Diamond
A popular choice for engagement rings for women, diamonds are the most precious gemstones of all time. Their prices range from $1000-$100,000 per carat depending on the quality and cut. Some of the priciest diamond colors include pinks, blues, and reds. They can cost a fortune!
However, lab-created diamonds might be a fantastic option for individuals on a strict budget. Being synthetically created, these don’t come with the same hefty price tag as natural ones. Enhanced blue diamonds are also available for a fraction of the cost.
Ruby
Gorgeous and luxurious rubies are one of the most beloved gemstones among jewelry lovers. Its deep red color and luminescence make it an eye-catching addition to wedding rings or any other jewelry item. Its hardness and durability, second only to diamonds, make it a highly sought-after gemstone for jewelry.
The price of rubies can range from $1000 to over $20,000 per carat depending on the color and clarity. The most expensive rubies are usually from Myanmar, although those from other countries, such as Madagascar and Sri Lanka, can also be quite valuable. The most costly rubies are also called “pigeon blood rubies” due to their vivid red hue.
Sapphire
Beautiful and durable, sapphires come in a variety of colors, including blue, yellow, and pink. Since its rich blue hue complements so many metals and gemstones, blue sapphires are a popular option for engagement rings. Sapphires are also the second most durable gemstone after diamonds, making them an excellent investment for jewelry lovers.
The average cost of a sapphire ranges from $800 to $10,000 per carat. The most expensive sapphires are those with a deep blue hue, excellent clarity, and origins in Sri Lanka or Myanmar’s historic mining regions. Other valuable sapphire colors are pink and padparadscha (a mix of pink and orange).
Emerald
Elegant and mysterious, emeralds are one of the most beautiful gemstones. Its green color symbolizes love and fertility, so it is often associated with romantic relationships. Depending on factors such as color and clarity, the price per carat of emeralds may range from $500 to $10,000.
The most valuable emeralds come from Colombia and can be pretty expensive. However, those from other countries, such as Brazil, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, can also be quite valuable.
Its hardness and durability make it an ideal choice for jewelry.
List of Popular Semi-Precious Gemstones
Can’t afford precious gems but still looking to rock your jewelry? Don’t worry! Semi-precious gemstones come in various colors and can be quite affordable for everyone. Here is a semi-precious gemstone list with some very sought-after jewels to choose from:
Amethyst
Amethyst, a lovely purple gemstone, is a famous semi-precious stone. You may get amethysts in a wide variety of shades, from very pale purple to very dark violet. Amethysts usually range in price from $5-$200 per carat, depending on the color and clarity. The most valuable variety is the deep purple variety from Uruguay.
Citrine
Citrine is a yellow to a reddish-orange semi-precious gem that is becoming increasingly popular in jewelry. It comes in a vast assortment of hues, from very pale yellow to intense orange. Citrine usually ranges in price from $5-$200 per carat, depending on the color and clarity. For the highest quality, look for citrines from Brazil.
Peridot
Peridot, a rare and beautiful neon-green gemstone, is a semi-precious jewel that is quickly gaining in popularity. Peridot usually ranges in price from $5-$100 per carat, depending on the color and clarity. The highest quality peridot comes from Arizona.
Tanzanite
Discovered in 1967, the blue-violet tanzanite is a one-of-a-kind gemstone. It is becoming increasingly popular for its vivid color and affordability. Tanzanite usually ranges in price from $50-$1000 per carat, depending on the color and clarity. Some of the most valuable tanzanites come from Tanzania. As a matter of fact, the gemstone is so unique to the country that it bears the name of the nation, adding to its desirability and rarity.
Turquoise
A beautiful blue-green gemstone, turquoise, has been used in jewelry since ancient times. It is highly sought-after for its unique color and affordability. Turquoise usually ranges in price from $1-$100 per carat, depending on the color and clarity. The highest quality turquoise comes from Arizona and Iran.
Garnet
The gorgeous gemstone garnet features a myriad of hues, from deep red to vivid green. Depending on their color and clarity, garnets can cost anywhere from $5 to $50 per carat. The most valuable are those with bright red color from India or Sri Lanka. Some other valuable varieties of garnet include pink, yellow and green.
Opal
Opal is an extraordinary gemstone that is both beautiful and fascinating because of the rainbow of colors it can display. It usually ranges in price from $5-$500, making it easy for everyone to find a unique piece of opal jewelry. The most valuable opals come from Australia, where it is known as the national gemstone. In terms of value, the most expensive are the black opals with a bright blue or green “play of color.”
Morganite
Newly popular, Morganite is a beautiful pale pink to a deep salmon-colored gemstone. It usually ranges in price from $20-$200 per carat, depending on the color and clarity. If you’re looking for the best quality morganites, look for those from Madagascar.
FAQs
The most expensive gem is diamond. It is highly sought-after for its rarity and durability.
In addition to its carat weight, a gemstone’s color, clarity, cut, and polish all play a role in establishing its value. The greater the gem’s quality, the greater its worth.
Diamonds, rubies, and emeralds are typically the most valuable gemstones due to their rarity and durability. However, other gems such as tanzanite, sapphire, and opal can also be quite valuable.
Understand the Value of Your Gem Before Buying
With this gemstone value chart, you can find the perfect gemstone for your jewelry needs! Whether you’re looking for a precious diamond or a beautiful semi-precious gemstone, understanding the value of your gem will help you make an informed purchase.
So study up on your gemstone price list and find the perfect piece for your collection!
The sky’s the limit when it comes to gemstone value and price charts. With this handy guide, you can find the perfect gem for any occasion!
Happy gem hunting!
