Diamonds may be the most famous gemstone in the world, but are they really the rarest? The answer might surprise you.
Diamonds: Abundant but Marketed as Rare
Diamonds are often perceived as extremely rare, thanks in large part to marketing campaigns in the 20th century. In reality, diamonds are relatively abundant compared to many colored gemstones. Large diamond mines in Africa and Russia supply the global market consistently, making diamonds more common than most people think.
Colored Gemstones: Naturally Rarer than Diamonds
Gemstones like emeralds, rubies, and sapphires are geologically harder to find in fine quality. For example:
- Emeralds with rich green color and minimal inclusions are much rarer than diamonds of similar quality.
- Rubies over 2 carats in top “pigeon blood red” quality are exceptionally scarce.
- Sapphires in fine unheated condition, especially in large sizes, are rarer than diamonds.
Other gems such as alexandrite, spinel, and paraiba tourmaline are rarer than diamonds as well.
With recent surge in demand for these colored gems, the supply always run thin
Why Diamonds Still Dominate
While colored gemstones are rarer, diamonds are more widely available due to industrial-scale mining. Strong branding, tradition (especially in engagement rings), and consistent supply make diamonds the default choice.
The Takeaway
Yes, many colored gemstones are more rare than diamonds — especially when it comes to size, quality, and natural untreated stones. That’s why serious collectors and investors often look beyond diamonds to acquire pieces in sapphire, emerald, ruby, or other rare gems.
At Desiree Gems, we celebrate this rarity by offering fine colored gemstone jewelry that blends timeless beauty with true scarcity.