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An Insight into Taaffeite: The Rarest Gem in the World

Updated: Apr 4

Exploring the Mysterious Realm of Taaffeite: A Gemologist's Perspective in Singapore

An Insight into Taaffeite: The Rarest Gem in the World
Taafeite Photo credit: GIA | Photo by Elise A. Skalwold.

For the past year, we have been sharing articles that delve into the fascinating world of rare gemstones. Each precious stone has a unique story to tell, boasting of rarity, beauty, and history. In this article, we will be featuring the Taaffeite gemstone, the last in our series of the rarest gemstones in the world. Join us as we explore the captivating allure of Taaffeite through the eyes of a gemologist.


Understanding Taaffeite: A Precious Gemstone

Typically discovered in carbonate rocks, taaffeite is a highly uncommon mineral that is usually found with fluorite, mica, spinel, and tourmaline. Due to its exclusivity, taaffeite is only located in specific regions around the world, making it one of the rarest gemstones on the planet.


Discovered by gemologist Richard Taaffe in 1945, Taaffeite is a rare and precious mineral that dazzles with its kaleidoscopic hues. This "gemstone of a thousand colors" is renowned for its captivating shades of pink, lavender, mauve, and violet.


Where is Taaffeite found?

Taaffeite is a unique gemstone that is primarily found in Sri Lanka and Myanmar due to its natural formation and composition. In recent years, alluvial deposits of Taaffeite have been discovered in southern Tanzania, as well as in limestone sediments in China.


The Rarity and Value of Taaffeite
Taafeite Photo credit: National Jeweler | Photo credit: Pala International

The Rarity and Value of Taaffeite

One of the key factors that contribute to Taaffeite's allure is its scarcity. With limited deposits around the world, this gemstone is considered one of the rarest on the market. Gemologists in Singapore are well aware of the rarity of Taaffeite, and their expertise is essential in determining its authenticity and value. Read on as Gem Guru Singapore will shed light on the factors that make Taaffeite a prized possession and the considerations gemologists take into account when assessing its worth.


Taaffeite Price in Singapore
Taafeite Photo credit: National Jeweler | Photo credit: Vanutsaporn Treemok

Taaffeite Price in Singapore

The price of Taaffeite in Singapore can vary depending on the size, color, clarity, and cut of the stone. However, it is generally considered to be one of the most expensive gemstones in the world, with prices ranging from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars per carat.


Far East Gems & Jewelry store in Singapore is selling a 1.18 carat Taaffeite gemstone for $3,885. The price depends on factors such as size, color, clarity, and cut. The larger the stone, the more expensive it will be. The most valuable Taaffeite stones are deep violet or red in color, with no visible flaws and a well-cut for a beautiful sparkle.

If you are considering buying a Taaffeite stone, it is important to do your research and find a reputable jeweler who can authenticate the stone and provide you with a certificate of authenticity.


How to identify Taaffeite?
Taafeite Photo credit: GIA |  Photomicrograph by John Koivula

How to identify Taaffeite?

To identify Taaffeite, a combination of visual examination, gemological testing, and professional assistance may be necessary. Taaffeite is known for its various colors, including shades of lavender, mauve, pink, and violet, and typically has a vitreous luster. Gemologists measure Taaffeite's refractive index, birefringence, specific gravity, fluorescence, and examine the gemstone for inclusions, unique features, and origin to help identify it. Obtaining a gemstone certificate from a reputable gemological laboratory can confirm its identity and characteristics. If you're unsure how to distinguish a gemstone, don't hesitate to contact us. Our GIA-certified gemologist in Singapore, Howe Wei, can provide you with the necessary expertise to precisely identify and evaluate your gemstones.



 


Join Howe Wei, a GIA Graduate Gemologist and Master Valuer in Singapore, as he introduces you to some of the rarest gemstones in the world. Discover the unique beauty of Demantoid, Grandidierite, Painite, Serendibite, Alexandrite and Tanzanite and Musgravite.

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©2022 Howe Wei | Graduate Gemologist (GIA) in Singapore

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