Birthstoneshave been used for centuries as a way to represent an individual's birth month and are often believed to hold special powers and meanings.

From January's garnet to December's turquoise, each birthstone has its own unique characteristics and value.

What is the least valuable birthstone? Not all birthstones are created equal, and some are considered less valuable than others.

In this article, we will explore the concept of birthstones and delve into the least valuable birthstones, examining their history, characteristics, and significance in the world of gemstones.

What Are Birthstones?

Birthstones are gemstones that are associated with each month of the year based on traditional or modern beliefs.

They are often used to represent a person's birth month and are believed to bring luck, protection, and other positive qualities to the wearer.

The concept of birthstones can be traced back to ancient times, and different cultures have their own interpretations and lists of birthstones.

The modern list of birthstones, as established by the Jewelers of America in 1912, is widely recognized and followed in many countries.

It consists of a specific gemstone or gemstone for each month of the year. The list has evolved over time, and variations may exist in different regions or cultures.

Understanding Birthstones

Birthstones have a long history that can be traced back to ancient civilizations. The concept of birthstones dates back to the breastplate of Aaron, the High Priest of the Israelites, which was said to have 12 gemstones representing the 12 tribes of Israel.

Over time, different cultures and regions developed their own lists of birthstones, often associating them with various qualities, such as healing properties, protection from evil, or good fortune.

In modern times, the most widely recognized list of birthstones is the one standardized by the Jewelers of America in 1912, which is based on the Gregorian calendar. According to this list, each month has a corresponding birthstone as follows.

• January - Garnet
• February - Amethyst
• March - Aquamarine
• April - Diamond
• May - Emerald
• June - Pearl, Alexandrite, or Moonstone
• July - Ruby
• August - Peridot
• September - Sapphire
• October - Opalor Tourmaline
• November - Topazor Citrine
• December - Turquoise, Tanzanite, or Zircon

These birthstones are often used in jewelryand other decorative items, and their value can vary widely depending on factors such as rarity, color, clarity, and size.

While some birthstones are highly prized and considered precious gems, others may be less valuable due to various reasons.

What Is The Least Valuable Birthstone Explanation?

Among the list of standardized birthstones, there are a few gemstones that are generally considered to be less valuable than others. Let's take a closer look at these birthstones and explore why they are often perceived as having a lower value.

Turquoise

Turquoise is the birthstone for December and has been used in jewelry and decorative items for thousands of years. It is a blue to a green opaque gemstone that is often associated with the American Southwest and Native American jewelry.

Turquoise is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, with a Mohs hardness of 5-6, which makes it susceptible to scratching and damage.

Additionally, the color of turquoise can fade over time when exposed to sunlight or chemicals, which can affect its value.

Despite its historical significance and cultural significance, turquoise is generally considered to be less valuable compared to other birthstones due to its relatively lower rarity and durability.

High-quality turquoise with intense color and minimal matrix (the veining or markings often seen in turquoise) can command higher prices, but lower-quality turquoise with visible matrix and the paler color is more common and less valuable.

Pearl

Pearls are unique among birthstones as they are the only ones that are not minerals but organic gemstones formed by living organisms.

Pearls are produced by certain species of mollusks, such as oysters and mussels, in response to an irritant that enters their shells.

They come in various colors, shapes, and sizes, with white and cream-colored pearls being the most popular.

Cultured pearls, which are grown with human intervention, are more common and affordable compared to natural pearls, which are rare and highly prized.

However, even though natural pearls are generally considered to be valuable compared to other birthstones, pearls are often considered to be less valuable due to their relatively lower durability and the availability of cultured pearls in the market.

Pearls have a relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale, ranging from 2.5 to 4.5, which makes them susceptible to scratching, chipping, and damage. They also require special care and maintenance to preserve their luster and prevent deterioration.

Additionally, natural pearls are rare and hard to find, which makes them more valuable compared to cultured pearls.

However, with the advent of pearl farming and cultured pearl production, pearls have become more accessible and affordable, resulting in a decrease in their overall value in the market.

Moonstone

Moonstone is one of the birthstones for June and is known for its unique play of colors, which is called adularescence.

It is a type of feldspar mineral that exhibits a distinctive sheen or glow when viewed from certain angles, reminiscent of moonlight shimmering on the water.

Moonstone is usually translucent to opaque, and its colors can vary from colorless to white, gray, peach, and blue.

While moonstone has a mesmerizing appearance, it is generally considered to be less valuable compared to other birthstones due to its relatively lower hardness and durability.

Moonstone has a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, which makes it susceptible to scratching and chipping, especially in jewelry that is exposed to daily wear. Its delicate nature requires careful handling and maintenance to prevent damage and preserve its beauty.

Alexandrite

Alexandrite is one of the birthstones for June and is known for its unique color-changing properties. It displays a greenish color in natural daylight or fluorescent light, and a reddish or purplish color in incandescent light, making it a highly sought-after gemstone.

Alexandrite is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl and is known for its exceptional rarity and color-changing phenomenon.

Despite its rarity and unique color-changing properties, alexandrite is often considered to be less valuable compared to other birthstones due to its high cost.

Alexandrite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, and high-quality alexandrite with vivid color change can command exorbitant prices.

Additionally, alexandrite is also known for its sensitivity to heat, light, and chemicals, which can affect its color-changing properties and overall value. These factors contribute to alexandrite being considered one of the least valuable birthstones in terms of affordability and accessibility.

Common Birthstones

Birthstones are gemstones that are associated with each month of the year, and they have been used for centuries as a way to symbolize one's birth month and bring luck and prosperity.

While some birthstones may be less valuable or rare compared to others, they are still widely used and cherished by many. Some of the most common birthstones include.

Amethyst

Amethyst is the birthstone for Februaryand is known for its purple color. It is a type of quartzgemstone that ranges in color from pale lilac to deep purple.

Amethyst is abundant and found in many locations around the world, including Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia. Its affordability and availability make it one of the most common birthstones.

Aquamarine

Aquamarine is the birthstone for Marchand is known for its pale blue to blue-green color. It is a type of beryl mineral that is found in various countries, including Brazil, Madagascar, and Nigeria. Aquamarine is also relatively common and affordable, making it a popular choice as a birthstone.

Opal

Opal is one of the birthstones for October and is known for its unique play of colors. It is a type of hydrated silica mineral that displays a stunning array of colors when light interacts with its internal structure.

Opal is found in various countries, including Australia, Ethiopia, and Mexico, and it comes in a wide range of colors and patterns. While some high-quality opals can be valuable, common opals with a lower play of colors are more affordable and widely available.

How Expensive is Your Birthstone?!

People Also Ask

Which Birthstone Is Considered The Least Valuable?

The least valuable birthstone varies depending on factors such as rarity, demand, and quality, but some examples include peridot, garnet, and citrine.

What Are Some Birthstones That Are Not As Valuable Compared To Others?

Some birthstones that are generally considered less valuable compared to others are peridot, garnet, and citrine.

Are There Any Birthstones That Are More Affordable And Commonly Found?

Yes, birthstones such as peridot, garnet, and citrine are often more affordable and commonly found compared to other gemstones.

Which Birthstone Is Known For Its Lower Market Value?

Peridot is often considered to have a lower market value compared to other birthstones.

Can Birthstones Have Varying Levels Of Value?

Yes, the value of birthstones can vary based on factors such as rarity, demand, availability, and quality. Some birthstones may be more valuable, while others may be less valuable in the market.

Conclusion

Birthstones are gemstones that are associated with specific months and are often believed to hold special meanings and powers.

While some birthstones are highly valued and considered precious gems, others are considered less valuable due to various reasons. Factors such as rarity, durability, and market availability can affect the value of birthstones.

What is the least valuable birthstone? Turquoise, pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite are among the birthstones that are generally considered to be less valuable compared to other birthstones.

Turquoise is known for its relatively lower rarity, durability, and color stability. Pearls are unique organic gemstones that are susceptible to damage and are often more affordable due to the availability of cultured pearls.

Moonstone is known for its delicate nature and lower hardness, which can affect its durability. Alexandrite, despite its rarity and color-changing properties, can be expensive and sensitive to heat, light, and chemicals.