The value of (personalized) gemstones:Why this is about far more than just a store of value
Why have people considered gemstones a valuable investment for centuries? How valuable are gemstones in general, and how much is a Mevisto gemstone worth if I ever decide to sell it? These are questions that occasionally arise—sometimes even between the lines—though some may find them distasteful or even macabre.
We acknowledge that these questions come up from time to time. Perhaps because some people don’t fully understand the true meaning behind gemstones made from ashes or hair. That’s why we’re addressing this topic in this blog post.
Gemstones as an investment
Whether emerald, ruby, sapphire, or diamond—people have adorned themselves with precious gemstones for centuries. However, gemstones are no longer just sparkling decorations; in recent years, they have also gained significance as investment assets.
One reason for this shift is that traditional interest-based investments often no longer yield significant returns, leading many to seek alternatives. The advantage of gemstones: they are tangible assets. This means they are considered relatively stable in value, which can be particularly beneficial during periods of high inflation. At first glance, gemstones may seem like a lucrative investment option.
However, caution is advised: this applies only to natural, carefully selected, high-quality, and visually appealing specimens. Diamonds, as well as emeralds, rubies, and sapphires, generally fall into this category. Like gold, they are compact, have a high value density, are easy to store and transport, and will never completely lose their worth. Other gemstones, however, are not suitable as investment assets.
Tricky valuation
When it comes to pricing, things get tricky, as each gemstone is unique, meaning its valuation must be determined individually by an expert.
Additionally, the gemstone market is vast and, in some cases, reaches precarious conditions. Many gemstones are cut in low-wage countries to reduce costs and sell them cheaply—an issue that buyers should be aware of. Furthermore, in Austria and Germany, gemstones are subject to value-added tax (VAT) upon purchase.
As a general rule: the higher the quality and the larger the stone, the higher its price. However, each gemstone has its own unique value, and these prices are not easily comparable—unlike gold bars or gold coins, which are tied to a clear global market price.
For those interested in diamonds, it is essential to consider the "4 Cs"—Carat, Cut, Color, and Clarity—and ensure they fall within the upper range of the quality scale.
A value that can hardly be put into words
And what about the gemstones from Mevisto? Basically, the sapphires and rubies we produce naturally have a corresponding value. However, their actual value goes far beyond this, as they contain the essence of a person or animal.
“Gemstones from Mevisto have a particularly high emotional value. A value that can be passed down through generations, along with all the stories that go with it. This makes the stone a valuable heirloom,” says Mevisto owner Daniela Reiter.
Or as Nicole R., one of our customers, puts it in a nutshell: “Gemstones from Mevisto are not just stones, they are a person in the form of a stone.” This is precisely why Mevisto gemstones have different gradients and colors.
“Suddenly having this connection to the respective person in the form of a stone - that is so individual and personal and I believe that anyone who understands this aspect will also recognize the value of a Mevisto gemstone. It's not just any stone or piece of jewelry, it's a part of a person,” says Nicole R.
Sale is not an option for any Mevisto customer
For Daniela Reiter, this raises the question of who would buy a piece from a stranger or animal in the first place. “And then the far more important question arises: why would anyone want to sell such a personal gemstone in the first place?” she adds.
This would also be unthinkable for Mevisto customers, as surveys show. For most, a gemstone from Mevisto is priceless.
Also unique as a wedding and engagement ring
But Mevisto gemstones are also of very special significance as wedding or engagement rings. “An engagement ring made from the hair of the proposer - that is a declaration of love that is meant absolutely seriously. No ring in the world is more personal and thoughtful than this gesture. And as a wedding ring, a gemstone like this signifies an incredibly deep bond,” explains Daniela Reiter. Apart from the emotional specialty, we also attach great importance to the quality of the cut. Gemstones from Mevisto stand out due to their perfectly polished and accurate facets. The beauty is breathtaking.
