4 of the Biggest Gemstones In The World

Gemstones are admired all over the world for their rarity and beauty, yet for many people, owning one is not a possibility. In terms of the gemstones we are discussing here, it is unlikely that even billionaires will be able to afford them. These fascinating pieces are some of the biggest and rarest in the world, with many others probably waiting to be discovered.

• The Guiness Emerald

The Guiness Emerald was excavated in the Cosquez mines of Columbia, and is currently held in the private collection of the Bank of the Republic of Columbia. The gem weighs in at a staggering 1,759 carats and has been valued at $500 million!

Emeralds represent growth and peace, which have made them a very popular choice for vintage jewellery over the centuries. The striking green colour is an unparalleled natural beauty which contributes to its value.

• The Cullinan Diamond

Discovered in South Africa in 1905, the Cullinan diamond is the largest rough diamond ever mined and it weighed in at 3,106 carats! Since it was gifted to King Edward VII, the diamond has been cut into 9 main stones which currently are part of the British Crown Jewels. The collection is estimated to be valued between a staggering $400 million and $2 billion.

Diamonds represent purity and perfection, as well as faithfulness, making them the most common gem that appear in both modern and vintage engagement rings. Although, not many of them feature part of the Cullinan diamond!

• The Blue Hope Diamond

Also known as Le Bleu de France, The Blue Hope Diamond weighs in at 45.52 carats and has been valued at $350 million, thanks to its long history. The diamond is currently on display in Washington, USA, yet has a colourful past as it has been in the possession of King Louis XIV.

Blue diamonds are extremely rare, second to pink diamonds, and symbolise devotion, peace and spirituality. Opposed to popular beliefs, authentic blue diamonds are completely natural and unenhanced. The uniqueness of the stunning blue colour makes these diamonds very valuable indeed.

Interestingly, it has been suggested that this diamond carries with it a curse as it was stolen from India. This superstition suggests that not only does the owner of the diamond face incredible bad luck, but also anyone who touches it. This has led to The Blue Hope Diamond being coined as the most cursed gemstone in the world.

• El-Dorado Topaz

The El-Dorado Topaz was discovered in 1984 in Brazil and originally weighed 37kg. After the breathtaking stone was finished, it weighed in at 6.2kg and 31,000 carats. A lot of the outer material was in poor quality which was the reason for such a dramatic loss in weight. Whilst the exact value of this beauty is undetermined, the statistics suggest it certainly won’t be very affordable!

Summary

Gemstones are absolutely fascinating in any case, especially when such large and magnificent ones are discovered as discussed above. Although these gemstones are not attainable for many people at all, many vintage jewellery sellers have their own precious pieces that you could invest in. Alternatively, you will be able to see some amazing gemstones on display in museums all over the world.