10 Premium Gemstones That Command Prices Comparable to Diamonds

In addition to diamonds, several exceptional gemstones achieve remarkable valuations owing to their distinctive qualities, rarity, and aesthetic appeal. Derived from historical auction data, this selection highlights the most valuable specimens, including approximate per-carat figures where applicable, ideal for discerning investors and connoisseurs pursuing unparalleled elegance.

Pink Diamond (e.g., Pink Star Diamond)

This exquisite oval-cut fancy vivid pink diamond, valued at approximately $1.5 million per carat, spans 59.60 carats and achieved a sale price of $71.2 million—renowned for its impeccable coloration and exceptional scarcity.

Blue Diamond (e.g., Oppenheimer Blue)

A magnificent 14.62-carat blue diamond that realized $57.5 million, equating to about $3.93 million per carat—embodying sophistication and formerly part of prestigious collections in the diamond industry.

Orange Diamond (e.g., The Orange Diamond)

This pear-shaped vivid orange gem of 14.82 carats sold for $35.5 million, or roughly $2.39 million per carat—acclaimed for its rare fiery tone and substantial proportions.

Ruby (e.g., Sunrise Ruby)

A 25.59-carat Burmese ruby exhibiting the coveted 'pigeon blood' red hue fetched $30.42 million, approximately $1.18 million per carat—surpassing numerous diamonds in market worth.

Sapphire (e.g., Blue Belle of Asia)

This impressive 392.52-carat sapphire from Sri Lanka commanded $17.3 million, around $44,060 per carat—noted for its profound blue shade and record-breaking dimensions.

Yellow Diamond (e.g., Graff Vivid Yellow)

A 100-carat intense yellow diamond attained $16.3 million, about $163,000 per carat—exemplifying the prestige of colored diamonds among elite circles.

Red Diamond (e.g., Moussaieff Red)

Among the scarcest varieties, this 5.11-carat red diamond sold for $8 million, roughly $1.3 million per carat—highly sought after for its unparalleled infrequency.

Emerald (e.g., Rockefeller Emerald)

An 18.04-carat emerald from Colombia reached $5.5 million, approximately $200,000 per carat—venerated through history for its vibrant green allure.

Spinel (e.g., The Hope Spinel)

Exceeding 50 carats, this spinel achieved $1.4 million, about $28,000 per carat—historically confused with rubies and now esteemed by collectors.

Opal (e.g., Virgin Rainbow Opal)

This iridescent Australian opal fossil is appraised at $1 million overall—prized for its mesmerizing color play and distinctive origin.