Crystal collectors tout the value of crystals as related to their healing properties and metaphysical properties, but do they have any monetary value? Keep reading to learn…
- How much crystals are worth
- What factors impact crystals’ market value
- How much is a Swarovski crystal worth
- And more!
What You Will Learn
What are Crystals?
Before we can get into the value of crystals, it’s important to understand what crystals are and how they differ from other precious stones.
According to the International Gem Society, “a crystal is a solid whose atoms are arranged in a ‘highly ordered’ repeating pattern.” There are many different types of crystals, and you likely have some in your house right now — the little microscopic mineral crystals known as table salt, maybe? Or some diamonds? (However, interestingly, crystal glass is not considered a true crystal.)
That said, while there are many, many types of crystals, when most refer to “crystals,” we’re talking about the aesthetically appealing stones that are most often used in jewelry or healing practices.
Factors That Influence How Much Crystals Sell For
There are many factors that influence crystal value and how much a particular type of crystal will sell for.
Type
Starting with type, there are many, many different types of crystals, and some are worth much more than others. For example, a diamond is technically a type of natural crystal, but a diamond is going to be worth much more than quartz crystals.
Rarity and High Demand
Some subtypes of crystals are only available in limited quantities. Some rarer stones are only found in certain areas of the world.
However, as synthetic crystals (such as synthetic amethyst) have become available, rarity has become less of an issue. That said, just as is the case when deciding between a natural mined diamond and a synthetic diamond, some may prefer the natural beauty of a natural crystal versus the manufactured qualities of a synthetic crystal.
Color
Color matters when determining how much is a crystal worth. and the desired color is dependent upon the individual crystal type. For example, amethyst is more valuable the deeper the stone’s purple hue.
Size
In general, a crystal that’s larger in carat weight is going to fetch a higher price than a smaller crystal (yes, many crystals are measured and priced per carat, just like diamonds). However, size isn’t everything. If a smaller crystal boasts a better quality and appearance, it may go for a higher price than a larger crystal of lesser quality.
Quality
On that note, quality is of utmost appearance when determining how much is crystals worth. A crystal with no damage, few (if any) inclusions, and a pristine appearance will be more expensive.
How Much are Real Crystals Worth?
So, based on the above, how much can you expect to pay for popular crystals, and what are the most expensive crystals? Here’s a look at a few popular options.
Quartz Crystal
As one of the most popular stones in crystal collecting, quartz is fairly inexpensive. Quartz is sold “by the piece” and measured by carats, grams, or ounces. You can expect to pay under $50 for a piece of clear quartz or rose quartz, but often more for variations like tourmalinated quartz or rutilated quartz.
Fluorite Crystals
Fluorite crystals, or calcium fluoride crystal, come in many different colors, from light green to dark purple, and they’re purported to improve concentration and confidence, among other benefits.
Fluorite ranges in price depending on the factors discussed above. You can purchase fluorite in its raw form for very little, but, the larger and better quality the stone, the more you can expect to pay. Fluorite is available for purchase from online sellers at prices ranging from under $50 to thousands of dollars.
Turquoise
These smooth stones are often used in jewelry, even by those who don’t really care about the mineral specimens’ positive energy. Very easily available, turquoise is cheap, at just a few dollars per carat.
Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a more expensive crystal, with prices set at upwards of a thousand dollars per carat. Aquamarine is a favorite for its appearance, as well as its healing properties, both spiritual and physical. Most aquamarine is sourced from Brazil.
Jade
Jade can vary in value to an extreme degree. Some pieces are worth millions, but you can also buy jade at your local gem shop for a few dollars per carat. It all depends on the jade’s origin, quality, and size.
Tourmaline
Like jade, tourmaline can vary in price significantly. Some crystals go for thousands, while others are more affordable. Tourmaline is known for its wide array of bright hues.
Tiger Eye
Tiger Eye is a very unique gemstone with a striped, brown appearance that resembles, as the name suggests, a tiger’s eye. Primarily sourced from Africa, this crystal’s metaphysical benefits also tie into its name and appearance, as it’s purported to bring insight and clarity. Relatively inexpensive, you can find tiger eye gemstones going for under $50 per carat.
Hematite
Even more affordable, you can find hematite available at less than $1 per carat. This crystal has a metallic appearance and is a grounding crystal.
Moonstone
Moonstone is a favorite and popular crystal due to its luminous appearance and calming properties. Prices for moonstone start at around $10 per carat.
So, are Crystals Worth Money?
At the end of the day, yes, crystals are worth money. How much money they’re worth will, of course, differ according to a very large number of factors.
Crystal jewelry and collections are worth protecting with specialized jewelry insurance, if your crystal collection does include some of those higher-end types of crystals. Most homeowners and renters insurance plans won’t protect items like these in the event of theft or natural disaster, or at least not to any great degree, so if you worry about needing to replace a piece or collection in the future, specialized insurance is a good idea.
That said, if you’re looking for a safe jewelry investment, you may want to steer clear of what we typically think of as crystals, like quartz. You can make a better jewelry investment by opting for classic, timeliness gemstones and precious metals, such as diamond, gold, and silver.
Need to know more? Check out the BriteCo blog for more handy guides to everything you need to know regarding jewelry, gemstones, and more.
Crystal Value FAQs
How much are Swarovski crystals worth?
Swarovski crystal worth is determined primarily by rarity and condition. Swarovski crystal figurines are made from crystal glass, which does not hold intrinsic value on its own.
What synthetic stones cost the most?
According to the International Gem Society, synthetic beryl and synthetic emerald are some of the most expensive synthetic stones.
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