💎 Diamonds — Really the Best Friends?

Why Precious Gemstones Are Rarely Discussed as Investments?

Investing in diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds sounds glamorous — but the reality is far more complex. Here’s why you rarely hear about them in serious investment discussions:

1. 📉 No Transparent Market (Unlike Gold or Silver)

🔹Gold and silver have standardized prices (COMEX, LBMA).

🔹Gem prices are subjective — two similar rubies can have very different values.

🔹A few players dominate the market (e.g. De Beers for diamonds).

➜ Bottom line: real value is hard to determine.

2. 🧪 High Risk of Fakes and Treatments

🔹Synthetic gems are hard to distinguish from natural ones.

🔹Treated stones (heated, glass-filled) are often sold as high-grade.

🔹Even certificates can be forged (especially in Asia).

➜ Bottom line: you need a gemologist and certified sellers (GIA, AGS).

3. 🐌 Low Liquidity

🔹Gold coins can be sold in a day; a $10,000 ruby may take months.

🔹Auctions (Sotheby’s, Christie’s) charge 15–25% fees.

🔹Jewelers buy back at 30–50% discount.

➜ Bottom line: a very long-term investment (10+ years).

4. 💼 Taxation and Storage Issues

🔹Some countries tax gems (VAT, luxury tax).

🔹Safe storage and insurance are a must.

🔹Border crossings may require declaration.

➜ Bottom line: extra costs reduce returns.

5. 💔 Diamonds Are… Overrated

🔹Non-unique diamonds often lose 30–50% in resale.

🔹De Beers artificially props up prices, but lab-grown diamonds disrupt that.

🔹Colored stones (rubies, sapphires) perform better, but harder to price.

➜ Bottom line: natural colored stones are more promising — but riskier.

💡 Should You Invest?

✅ Yes, if:

• You’re an expert or work with a gemologist.
• You buy rare, certified stones (e.g. Burmese rubies).
• You can hold them for 10–20 years.

❌ No, if:

• You need quick liquidity — stick with gold/silver.
• You’re a beginner (high chance of getting scammed).

💎 Alternative: Collector Coins with Gemstones

If you want less risk but with a touch of luxury:

• Australian Opal Coin (silver + opal)
• Canadian Maple Leaf with ruby (gold + synthetic stone)

📌 Conclusion

Gemstones are not beginner-friendly. It’s a niche, illiquid market — great for collectors and experts with time and patience. For safety, go gold. For thrill and beauty, go gems — but study first.

💎 Invest mindfully!