Historical association is one of the factors determining the value of a gemstone. take The Emerald as an example. Famous objects such as Cleopatra's seal and the Moghul Emerald Cup add substantial emotional appeal to the investment equation for this green crystal.
For colored gems, while the "big three" ruby, sapphire and emerald have ample room for appreciation, it makes sense to buy while the stones are still priced at a relatively low level. Current indications are that kunzite, a lavender-pink gem, first discovered in California and named after the eminent gemologist of Tiffany, George Frederick Kunz, in 1902, is a good choice.
This pastel pink stone shot to stardom at Sotheby's auction in 1996. Among the jewelry from the estate of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was a ring with a 47-carat cushion-cut kunzite surrounded by 20 diamonds. The ring was originally purchased by President John F Kennedy as a Christmas gift to his wife in 1963. Tragically, he was assassinated in November that year. With a pre-auction appraisal at HK$46,800 to HK$62,400, the ring sold for a remarkably high price of HK$3.36 million. This is a clear case where the provenance of the piece inflated its value.
The price of kunzite depends on color, clarity, cut and size, with the more saturated pinks commanding high premium. Ranging from HK$400 to HK$800 per carat, the gem is increasingly popular as gifts among young urban professionals. Known as a Stone of Emotion, its beauty, affordability and
ethereal properties combine to secure its place in the gem market. It is best worn as evening jewelry as some stones may fade in color when exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
A relaxation stone emitting exceptionally tranquill vibrations, kunzite is often used by crystal healing experts for releasing tension and guarding against depression. Practitioners believe that the gentle energy of kunzite helps open the heart to a silent communion of joy and delight. Clients are often advised to gaze at or hold a kunzite to release daily stress, calm nerves, anger or fear and enhance intuition.
Globe-trotters also like to wear kunzite for safety and good fortune while on a trip. The soothing power of kunzite calms nervousness during an interview or assessment and pundits say its soft pastel colors represent a new career milestone. All in all, kunzite is a gem that truly meets the modern day workplace requirement of multitasking! Retired senior civil servant Juliana Chen is a passionate crystal collector who shares the good things in life.
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