These 10 Insanely Rare Gems Are the Real Treasure Hunters' Dream

Advertisement

With just a small number of known examples, painite is a gemstone originally thought to be the rarest mineral on Earth. First found in Myanmar in the 1950s, this beautiful reddish-brown gemstone has since become somewhat sought after by collectors because of its scarcity and unusual look. A real gemological treasure, Painite is rare and strikingly beautiful. Painite was first discovered in 1951 by British mineralogist Arthur C.D. Pain after he came upon the gemstone in Myanmar Pain first thought he had discovered a fresh range of tourmaline, but more research turned out the gemstone was a new mineral species. Painite was later called in respect of its discoverer. Painite was regarded as the rarest mineral on Earth for many years as just a handful known specimens existed. Painite has a hexagonal crystal arrangement and is gemologically a member of the borate mineral group. Though its rarity generally means that it is more usually found in collector's items than daily use, it rates 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, hence it is appropriate for many kinds of jewellery. Though some specimens show a faint orange or pink tinge, the gemstone's colour ranges from reddish-brown to brownish-red. Its unique colour comes from trace elements like iron and chromium included within its crystal structure. Myanmar is the main source of Painite; yet tiny amounts have also been discovered in other places including Madagascar. Painite mining is difficult, and there is quite limited yield of high-quality gem-grade Painite. Painite is quite valuable among gem collectors and aficionados because of its scarcity and special colour and optical qualities of the gemstone. Apart from its looks, Painite is appreciated for its special optical qualities. Pleochroism is the phenomena whereby a gemstone displays several colours depending on the angle of view. This optical impression accentuates the mystery of the gemstone and increases its appeal. Not just for its beauty and rarity, but also for its special position in the world of gemstones, Painite is much valued by collectors. Painite's appeal goes beyond only its physical qualities. Gemological tradition has included the gemstone from its discovery and subsequent identification as the rarest material on Earth. Painite is highly prized by collectors and gem aficionados not only for its appearance but also for its rarity and special circumstances of creation. Many times, owning a piece of Painite is considered as having a piece of geological past, a jewel reflecting the wonder and beauty of the natural world. Painite is, all things considered, a gemstone of great beauty and rarity. One of the most sought-after and valuable gemstones worldwide, its striking reddish-brown hue, paired with its special optical qualities and exclusiveness, appeal Painite, with its striking colours, embodies the core of the Earth's geological legacy and marks the height of nature's artistry for gem aficioners and collectors.