What's the Most Expensive Stone, and Why Do People Think It Can Sing?

What's the Most Expensive Stone, and Why Do People Think It Can Sing?

When it comes to the world of precious stones, the question of what constitutes the most expensive stone is one that has fascinated gemologists, collectors, and even casual enthusiasts for centuries. The value of a stone is determined by a myriad of factors, including rarity, color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. However, beyond these tangible attributes, there is an almost mystical allure that surrounds certain stones, making them not just objects of desire but also subjects of legend and lore. In this article, we will explore the most expensive stones in the world, delve into the reasons behind their astronomical prices, and even touch upon the curious belief that some of these stones can “sing.”

The Contenders for the Most Expensive Stone

1. The Pink Star Diamond

The Pink Star Diamond, a 59.60-carat oval mixed-cut pink diamond, holds the record for the most expensive gemstone ever sold at auction. In 2017, it fetched a staggering $71.2 million at Sotheby’s Hong Kong. The stone’s rarity, combined with its vivid pink hue and flawless clarity, makes it a true marvel of nature. Pink diamonds are among the rarest in the world, and the Pink Star is the largest internally flawless, fancy vivid pink diamond ever graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

2. The Blue Moon Diamond

Another contender for the title of the most expensive stone is the Blue Moon Diamond, a 12.03-carat fancy vivid blue diamond. This stone sold for $48.4 million in 2015, setting a world record for the highest price per carat ever paid for a diamond at that time. The Blue Moon Diamond is renowned for its exceptional color saturation and clarity, which are rare even among blue diamonds.

3. The Oppenheimer Blue Diamond

The Oppenheimer Blue Diamond, a 14.62-carat fancy vivid blue diamond, is another gem that has captured the imagination of collectors worldwide. It sold for $57.5 million in 2016, making it one of the most expensive diamonds ever sold. The stone’s deep blue color and exceptional clarity are what set it apart, along with its historical significance, having been named after its previous owner, Sir Philip Oppenheimer.

4. The Graff Pink Diamond

The Graff Pink Diamond, a 24.78-carat fancy intense pink diamond, is another gem that has commanded a high price at auction. It sold for $46 million in 2010, making it one of the most expensive pink diamonds ever sold. The stone’s intense pink color and exceptional clarity are what make it so valuable, along with its rarity.

5. The Hope Diamond

While not the most expensive stone in terms of auction prices, the Hope Diamond is perhaps the most famous gemstone in the world. This 45.52-carat deep blue diamond is known for its storied history and alleged curse. The Hope Diamond is currently housed in the Smithsonian Institution, where it continues to captivate millions of visitors each year.

Factors That Determine the Value of a Stone

1. Rarity

Rarity is perhaps the most significant factor in determining the value of a stone. Stones that are found in limited quantities, such as pink and blue diamonds, are inherently more valuable than more common stones like white diamonds. The rarity of a stone is often influenced by its color, with certain hues being more difficult to find than others.

2. Color

The color of a stone is another critical factor in determining its value. In the case of diamonds, the presence of a strong, vivid color can significantly increase the stone’s worth. Fancy colored diamonds, such as pink, blue, and red diamonds, are particularly prized for their unique hues. The intensity and purity of the color are also important, with more saturated and evenly distributed colors being more valuable.

3. Clarity

Clarity refers to the absence of inclusions or blemishes within a stone. Stones with higher clarity grades are more valuable because they are rarer and more visually appealing. Inclusions can affect the stone’s brilliance and overall appearance, so stones with fewer inclusions are generally more sought after.

4. Cut

The cut of a stone refers to how well it has been shaped and faceted. A well-cut stone will reflect light more effectively, enhancing its brilliance and sparkle. The cut is particularly important for diamonds, as it can significantly impact the stone’s overall appearance and value.

5. Carat Weight

Carat weight is a measure of a stone’s size, with larger stones generally being more valuable. However, carat weight is not the only factor that determines a stone’s value. A smaller stone with exceptional color, clarity, and cut can be more valuable than a larger stone with inferior qualities.

The Myth of Singing Stones

One of the more curious beliefs surrounding precious stones is the idea that some stones can “sing.” This belief is rooted in ancient folklore and mythology, where certain stones were thought to possess magical properties, including the ability to produce sounds. While there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that stones can sing, the belief persists in some cultures.

In some traditions, it is believed that certain stones, when struck or rubbed together, can produce musical tones. These stones are often associated with spiritual or mystical practices and are thought to have the power to communicate with the divine. While this belief is not widely accepted in the modern world, it adds an extra layer of intrigue to the already fascinating world of precious stones.

Conclusion

The question of what is the most expensive stone is one that can be answered in many ways, depending on the criteria used to determine value. However, one thing is certain: the most expensive stones are not just valuable because of their rarity, color, clarity, cut, or carat weight. They are also valuable because of the stories, legends, and myths that surround them. Whether it’s the Pink Star Diamond, the Blue Moon Diamond, or the Hope Diamond, each of these stones has a unique history that adds to its allure and mystique.

And while the idea that stones can sing may be nothing more than a myth, it serves as a reminder that the world of precious stones is one that is filled with wonder, beauty, and endless fascination.

Q: What makes pink diamonds so rare? A: Pink diamonds are rare because they are formed under unique geological conditions that are not fully understood. The presence of certain trace elements and structural anomalies during the diamond’s formation process is believed to be responsible for their pink color. Additionally, pink diamonds are found in only a few locations worldwide, with the Argyle mine in Australia being the most famous source.

Q: Why are blue diamonds so expensive? A: Blue diamonds are expensive because of their rarity and the intensity of their color. The blue color in diamonds is caused by the presence of boron during the diamond’s formation, which is a rare occurrence. Additionally, blue diamonds with a vivid color saturation and high clarity are even rarer, making them highly sought after by collectors.

Q: Is the Hope Diamond really cursed? A: The Hope Diamond is often associated with a curse due to the misfortunes that have befallen some of its previous owners. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of a curse. The stories surrounding the Hope Diamond’s curse are likely the result of its long and storied history, which has been embellished over time.

Q: Can stones really sing? A: There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that stones can sing. The belief that certain stones can produce musical tones is rooted in ancient folklore and mythology and is not widely accepted in the modern world. However, the idea adds an extra layer of intrigue to the already fascinating world of precious stones.

Q: What is the most expensive stone ever sold? A: The most expensive stone ever sold is the Pink Star Diamond, which fetched $71.2 million at auction in 2017. This 59.60-carat oval mixed-cut pink diamond is the largest internally flawless, fancy vivid pink diamond ever graded by the GIA.