Which are the most expensive gemstones?

[harbinger]

If one had a piece of X vs a piece of Y, both with the same cut,clarity and whatever, are diamonds the most expensive?

What follows?

What a fab thread, love it.

Gerorf, there was a fire opal in that little jeweller in the lane behind what was m and s, in gloucester, the sainsbury end. Forget the lane name, was oooh twenty yrs ago. I coveted that ring.

Diamonds are expensive because they are one of the hardest naturally occuring substances. Pure carbon, with each atom linked to its neighbour, it makes a perfect, extremly hard molecular structure. This is why they are used in industry and THAT is why they are so precious. It's not just clever marketing.

An article on pricing for diamonds which is interesting
www.economist.com/node/456025

mirai - yellow sapphire is nice. Not as expensive as a pink but still a premium buy!

Callmebetty...if you speak to your local jeweller (not a chain) they should be able to sort you out with somebody in your area. (Also you're a lucky sod!)

Nessa, that is true, but before they were used in industry their massive surge in popularity was down to the De Beers campaign/brainwashing. Zara's article is pretty spot on. Good find!

Tanzanite is my new favourite gemstone. Only problem is that its known as being soft like emeralds so don't do the washing up in it! I have got 2 rings and they're fab

I was told years ago a flawless emerald was more expensive than a flawless diamond as they are scarcer. But I think pink diamonds are possibly rarer and more expensive. And also I expect the fashion of the moment will affect prices.

I love Tanzanite... don't have any for myself but definitely wouldn't say no Get a dishwasher novice!

mirai, take pictures!! Sounds gorgeous.

And vivienne-spot on!

Thanks mrscumberbatch!

shattered I've got a 3 carat purple sapphire in my engagement ring and I am always bashing it on stuff because it sticks out. The stone is perfect, not a Mark on it, so I think they're pretty robust!

Saw the thread title and knew Mrs. C would know the answer. Was hoping she'd come along and she did. Ace as always.

blushes awww thankyou.... it's combining my two addictions- jewellery and mumsnetting