Precious stones: which are the most valuable among semi-precious stones?

The difference between precious stones and semi-precious stones essentially lies in their rarity. Stones like diamond, ruby, or emerald are rare and, consequently, have a high market value. For this reason, semi-precious stones, which are more abundant in nature, have a lower value despite their characteristics. In fact, a semi-precious stone, both physically and aesthetically, has nothing to envy from a precious stone, and its use in jewelry is becoming increasingly important.
In recent years, we have noticed a rise in the sales of semi-precious stones, which are increasingly chosen to adorn even high-quality jewelry. Choosing a semi-precious stone, compared to precious stones, has the advantage of a lower cost while still offering significant aesthetic appeal. This is not a compromise solution: over the years, the market has opened up to a wider variety of materials to satisfy all tastes and budgets.

What determines the value of a stone

Semi-precious stones, like precious stones, are generally valued by weight, usually per gram, while for more important stones, the unit of measurement is the carat, equal to approximately 0.2 grams.

The price per carat varies according to several factors, which we outline below:

• Quantity. The amount of the stone present in nature definitely determines its base value. The more common a stone is, the lower its price will be.
• Color. Color is another fundamental factor in determining a stone’s value. Intense and vivid colors generally command a higher price.
• Transparency. The transparency of a stone and the absence of inclusions have a significant impact on its price.
• Cut and polishing. The quality of the cut, well-defined, and a surface free of scratches are another element that increases a stone’s value.
• Size. The value of precious stones increases exponentially with the size of the stone. For semi-precious stones like quartz, however, the value increases proportionally with the weight.
• Market trends. The value of a stone is also influenced by fashion. The more in demand a stone is, the higher its market price. Trends, however, are volatile, and prices can fluctuate significantly.

Which semi-precious stones are the most valuable?

As we have seen, many variables affect the price, and it is not easy to make a general statement. The same stone could be sold at widely different prices depending on the distribution chain it has followed.

However, let’s look at the most beloved and valuable semi-precious stones:

• Amethyst
• Aquamarine
• Blue Topaz
• Imperial Topaz
• Zircon
• Turquoise
• Quartz

These are all semi-precious stones of great beauty, available in the market cut in various ways and with different carat sizes. Their value can vary greatly depending on purity, color, size, and cut. The choice among them always depends on personal taste and the type of setting desired. A piece of jewelry made of gold with a semi-precious stone that is well-cut and has a pure color can reach a significant value.

The choice between a precious stone and a semi-precious stone is purely an economic one, depending on the amount of capital one wishes to invest and immobilize. From an aesthetic point of view, however, the two types of stones are no different. A beautiful semi-precious stone, like topaz or amethyst, has nothing to envy from the most beloved precious stones.

See you soon
Perlepietre