Why are gemstones so valuable?

The Blue Moon Diamond is the most expensive diamond in the world. The 12-carat blue gem was sold for a world record price of over 48.4 million dollars. But what makes gems so valuable?

Gems are rare rocks and minerals that formed over millions, if not billions of years. They are therefore not easily recreated, or copied synthetically. Of course there are also synthetic gemstones. However, these are worth much less and also have completely different properties to real gems.

Since time immemorial, people have been fascinated by colorful and aesthetic jewels, leaving them in high demand. Thus, the relationship between supply and demand also plays an important role in the value of the gems.

Other factors that play a role in gem value are the processing of the stones (grinding, shaping, polishing, cutting and so on) as well as the production of the piece of jewelry including the other materials used (Gold, Silver, other precious metals).

Sensitivity, creativity, craftsmanship and experience are just a few of the attributes that make up the masterpiece. Goldsmiths concentrate on jewelry that is often even smaller than the dials of watches. Grinding, filing, soldering and casting are just as important as physics and chemistry in this field.

The craft was one of the most respected professions in the Middle Ages. Even today we have Goldsmiths to thank for all their beautiful treasures in the world, the sparkling unique and rare pieces. Here you will find information and products from the Goldsmiths we trust.

• Find more information in our guides What do gems cost?  and Quality features.