What Is the Rarest Crystal on Earth
What Is the Rarest Crystal on Earth?
Crystals have captivated human beings for centuries with their mesmerizing beauty and alleged healing properties. From amethysts to diamonds, there is an abundance of crystals found on Earth. However, among this vast array of gemstones, there is one crystal that stands out as the rarest of them all – the Pink Star Diamond.
The Pink Star Diamond, also known as the Steinmetz Pink, is an incredibly rare and valuable gemstone. Discovered in South Africa in 1999, this stunning diamond weighs a remarkable 59.60 carats, making it the largest known internally flawless, fancy vivid pink diamond ever graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Its mesmerizing pink hue, combined with its extraordinary size and near-flawless clarity, sets it apart from any other gemstone in the world.
The rarity of the Pink Star Diamond can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the formation of pink diamonds is an extremely rare occurrence. Most diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle under high pressure and temperature conditions, but the presence of additional elements, such as boron, nitrogen, or hydrogen, during the crystal’s formation process leads to its pink coloration. This unique combination of circumstances is what makes pink diamonds so scarce.
Furthermore, the Pink Star Diamond’s size is also a significant contributing factor to its rarity. Pink diamonds are typically small in size, with larger ones being exceptionally rare. The Pink Star Diamond’s impressive carat weight and its flawless clarity make it an extraordinary find.
In 2013, this rare gemstone was sold at an auction for a staggering $71.2 million, making it the most expensive diamond ever sold. However, the buyer defaulted on the payment, and the diamond was subsequently re-auctioned in 2017, fetching a slightly lower price of $71.2 million. The identity of the current owner of this remarkable gemstone remains undisclosed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Why are pink diamonds so rare?
Pink diamonds are exceptionally rare due to the specific geological conditions required for their formation, as well as the presence of additional elements during their crystallization process.
2. How are pink diamonds formed?
Pink diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle under high pressure and temperature conditions, with the presence of certain elements imparting their distinctive pink color.
3. Are pink diamonds more valuable than white diamonds?
Yes, pink diamonds are generally considered more valuable than white diamonds due to their rarity and unique coloring.
4. Can pink diamonds be found in other countries besides South Africa?
Yes, pink diamonds have been found in several other countries, including Australia, Brazil, and Russia, although the majority of them originate from Australia.
5. Are there any synthetic or lab-grown pink diamonds available?
Yes, synthetic pink diamonds are available, but they are not as valuable as natural ones.
6. How can one determine the authenticity of a pink diamond?
Authenticity can be determined through gemological analysis and certification by reputable organizations such as the GIA.
7. Are pink diamonds considered to have any metaphysical or healing properties?
Like other gemstones, pink diamonds are believed by some to possess metaphysical properties, including promoting love, compassion, and emotional healing.
8. Are there any famous pink diamonds besides the Pink Star Diamond?
Yes, other famous pink diamonds include the Graff Pink, the Pink Panther Diamond, and the Darya-i-Nur Diamond.
9. Can the color of pink diamonds fade over time?
No, the color of pink diamonds is stable and does not fade over time.
10. What is the significance of the Pink Star Diamond’s flawless clarity?
The Pink Star Diamond’s flawless clarity enhances its value and rarity, as most pink diamonds have some degree of internal or external flaws.
11. Are there any ongoing efforts to find more pink diamonds?
Yes, ongoing exploration and mining efforts continue in various regions worldwide to discover more pink diamonds and understand their formation better.