Discovering One of the World's Most Sought-After Gemstones Musgravite, an elusive and precious gemstone, has entranced both gem collectors and enthusiasts. This rare gemstone was named after the Musgrave Range in Australia, the site of its first discovery, and has since become one of the scarcest gemstones worldwide. In this edition, explore insights from Singapore-based gemologist, Howe Wei and uncover the mesmerizing properties and fascinating history of the world’s rarest gem - Musgravite.
Why is Musgravite Gemstone So Rare?
In 1967, a new mineral variety, Musgravite, was uncovered in the Musgrave Range of South Australia. Over time, it was discovered in other regions such as Greenland, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Tanzania. Despite this, finding gem-quality Musgravite is still exceedingly rare, with the majority of faceted specimens coming from Tanzania's Tunduru and Mogok in Myanmar, rather than the Musgrave Ranges.
This discovery added a new and exciting chapter to the field of gemology, as Musgravite is now considered "a rarity among rare" by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Their research examination "want list" includes Musgravite as one of the gemstones they are keen to study.
It wasn't until 1993 that a stone large and pure enough to be cut and shaped was discovered. The largest known musgravite gemstones include a 16-carat purplish-grey specimen from Sri Lanka, a 21.07-carat Ophir Red Musgravite (the largest red musgravite found and the third largest in the world), and a 22.65-carat Ophir Musgravite. The largest cut musgravite certified by the GIA is the Ophir Grand Musgravite, weighing in at 214 carats!
Aside from its aesthetic appeal, gem enthusiasts admire musgravite for its impressive physical properties. Musgravite boasts an 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for a variety of jewelry settings. Its resilience against scratches and abrasions ensures that musgravite can stand the test of time, adding to its allure as a gemstone of lasting beauty.
Musgravite and Taaffeite: Two Identical Minerals?
Musgravite, an aluminum oxide mineral, is a member of the taaffeite mineral family. These precious gems often require clarification due to their similar physical properties and rarity. Nonetheless, Musgravite Gemstone boasts a unique color range and is considered even rarer than Taaffeite. The magnesium content is the only differentiating factor between the two.
Distinguishing between musgravite and taaffeite requires the use of X-ray and Raman spectroscopy. Since only a few gem-quality musgravite specimens have been found globally, as a gemologist, I urge anyone who owns a taaffeite or musgravite gemstone to have it evaluated for its value.
Why is Musgravite so Expensive?
Musgravite is considered "a rarity among rare" by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Due to its limited supply and increasing demand, this exquisite gemstone is highly exclusive and among the most valuable in the market. Despite being less well-known than other minerals, musgravite can fetch anywhere from $6,000 to $35,000 per carat, surpassing even the value of diamonds, which range from $1,800 to $12,000 per carat. As the word about this unique gem spreads, its availability is not expected to increase, further elevating its value in the future.
Musgravite: A Gemstone with A Kaleidoscope of Colors
Musgravite is a highly sought-after gemstone due to its impressive color-changing abilities. The stone can transform into various hues, such as green, gray, mauve, and violet. However, the most coveted color of musgravite is purple. The gemstone's appearance can range from transparent to translucent, boasting a vitreous luster that indicates its relatively low refractive index.
Musgravite gemstones are classified primarily by variations in color and optical properties. Although there are no distinct "types" of musgravite, individual specimens can be differentiated by their color variations and specific characteristics. Here are some noteworthy types or variations of musgravite:
Green Musgravite: This type of Musgravite has a rich green color that can resemble fine emeralds. Its striking hue makes it a highly sought-after gemstone.
Violet Musgravite: With a captivating violet color, this gemstone can range from lighter lavender shades to deeper royal purple tones. It possesses a unique and alluring coloration.
Gray Musgravite: While not as common as other variations, gray Musgravite has its own distinct appeal. It can range from light gray to darker, smoky gray shades.
Blue Musgravite: Blue Musgravite is a rare variation that can display a range of blue tones, from light sky blue to deeper blues. Its unique color palette sets it apart from other Musgravite variations.
The Versatile Uses of Musgravite Gemstone
Musgravite gemstones are highly valued for their rarity and unique properties. Here are some of the most common ways Musgravite is utilized:
Mustgravite Gemstone Jewelry: As an exceptional gemstone, Musgravite is popular in jewelry design. Its luminous colors, rarity, and brilliance make it a desirable option for creating luxurious and exquisite jewelry pieces. Musgravite gems are often used as the centerpiece in rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets. It can be used as a standalone gem or in combination with other complementary gemstones.
Collecting Mustgravite and Investment: Due to its scarcity and exceptional value, Musgravite holds significant value for collectors, investors, and the gem trade. Musgravite gemstones are a rare and appealing addition to gemstone collections and can even be considered an investment opportunity, as their value is expected to appreciate over time.
Mustgravite Aesthetics and Display: Musgravite gems are sometimes used in high-end displays and exhibitions to showcase their beauty and rarity. Museums, gem shows, and private collections may feature Musgravite gemstones as examples of extraordinary and rare gem specimens.
Mustgravite Stone Spiritual and Healing Purposes: Musgravite has metaphysical properties that some individuals believe can be used for spiritual and healing purposes. It promotes spiritual growth, enhances intuition, and connects with higher realms. Musgravite may be used in meditation, energy healing sessions, or as a talisman or amulet.
In the world of gemstones, Musgravite stands out as a testament to the remarkable beauty that nature can produce. Its scarcity, combined with its captivating color-changing characteristics, makes Musgravite an unparalleled gemstone of utmost rarity and desirability. Authenticating a Musgravite gemstone necessitates a meticulous assessment using different techniques. Get in touch with us for an authorized gemologist in Singapore and a seasoned valuer examiner to evaluate your Musgravite gemstone.
Discover other rarest gemstones in the world such as Demantoid, Grandidierite, Painite, Serendibite, Alexandrite and Tanzanite with Howe Wei, GIA Graduate Gemologist and Master Valuer in Singapore