16 Rare And Most Expensive Gemstones Discovered Around The World

13. Jadeite – $20,000

(By Dave Dyet, Wikimedia Commons)

Green and sparkly, Jadeite was originally found in Myanmar (Burma) and then exported to China in 1784. While Myanmar continues to be a leading source of Jadeite, this mineral can also be found in California, New Zealand, Kazakhstan, Russia, and many other countries.

It is named after jade, as it is a common component of most jade gems, and jadeite bears the chemical formula NaAlSi2O6.

It has a number of metaphysical uses, like promoting longevity in both pets and people, and even helping shy children open up. Because it’s durable, it can also be used in jewelry, but for those with a heavy wallet because this beauty costs $20,000 per carat.

14. Grandidierite – $20,000 per carat

(By Rob Lavinsky, Wikimedia Commons)

Grandidierite is one of the rarest minerals in the world and was first discovered in 1902 in Madagascar. It was named after a French explorer, known for studying the natural layout of Madagascar, Alfred Grandidier.

As a magnesium-based mineral, its chemical formula is (Mg, Fe++)Al3(BO4)(SiO4)O.

Its major physical uses are in jewelry and rare gem-collections, though its metaphysical properties are believed to help the holder achieve their life’s goals. Unfortunately, this gem could also be a hindrance if one of your goals is saving, because one carat of this gemstone costs an unbelievable $20,000.

15. Taaffeite – $35,000 per carat

(By Rob Lavinsky, Wikimedia Commons)

The first cut and polished sample of this light lavender gem was found by a gemologist, one Richard Taaffe, in a jewelry shop in Dublin, Ireland.

This stunning gem is made up of aluminum, beryllium, magnesium, and oxygen, and has the chemical formula MgBeAl4O8.

Again, the major use of this mineral is as a collectible gemstone or in jewelry for the rich and famous, who can afford $35,000 for a single carat.

16. Red Diamond – $1,000,000 per carat

(By MBisanz, Wikimedia Commons)

Ah yes, a girl’s best friend…in red! This shiny ruby-like beauty has all the same properties as its transparent counterpart, but unlike the typical diamond, red diamonds are extremely rare. Only approximately 30 red diamonds have been found to date, in Brazil, India, and Russia.

Much like a white diamond, its only element is Carbon.

With so few available, Red Diamond is a collector’s item, rarely used for other purposes, as it sells for $1 million dollars for a single carat.