When was the last time you held a glimmering ruby or sapphire in your hand? If you're anything like most people, these precious stones are more likely to live in your Pinterest boards than your jewelry box.
But here's a burning question to consider this year - are precious gems, such as rubies, a good investment in 2025? Spoiler alert: they just might be.
Whether you're already bedazzling your fingers or still mulling over the idea, I'm here to show you why rubies and other precious gems might deserve a spot not just in your jewelry collection but in your investment portfolio too.
Why Some Investors Are Drawn to Gems
First things first - gems have historically been viewed as timeless assets. Ancient royalty hoarded them, pirates fought over them, and modern collectors bid millions for rare stones. They’re beautiful, scarce, and, in most cases, don't lose value the way certain trendy objects do.
But the real kicker? Gems are immune to inflation.
While your dollar may lose its strength over time, the rich crimson of a ruby or the mesmerizing green of an emerald doesn’t fade. They’re also portable wealth - slip a $5,000 ruby ring on your finger, and no one needs to know you’re essentially carrying a mini fortune.
Gems vs. Traditional Investments
When it comes to investments, gems possess a different kind of charm compared to conventional options like stocks or real estate.
Gems aren’t subject to market crashes or interest-rate hikes. Their resale value thrives on uniqueness and rarity, which means they don’t lose their elegance even as currencies wobble.
Take the example of rubies - treasured for millennia as symbols of affluence and passion. Their growing demand in burgeoning markets like China and India has hot-wired these crimson treasures into highly sought-after commodities.
In addition, their symbolism of love and royalty makes ruby jewelry all the more desirable - a perfect fit for both anniversary gifts and investment portfolios.
However, in contrast to ETFs or bonds, precious gems don't pay dividends. Their value is tied up in market demand, which can make them slower to sell than other investment options.
Why Rubies Are the Star of the 2025 Gem Market
Here’s a fun fact to kick us off - rubies are alluringly known as the "King of Gems." But they’re far more than a pretty face (or stone).
With their striking pigeon-blood hue and unrivaled hardness (Mohs scale coming in hot!), rubies are one of the few gems that make for a solid investment choice.
Historically, they’ve maintained their value better than most gemstones, with prices steadily inching up over the years. And while we can't predict the future, the signs are clear - rubies have an enduring allure.
A report on demand trends reveals rubies continue to stand out in auctions and high-value transactions, especially due to their limited mining sources like Myanmar and Mozambique.
Do’s and Don’ts of Investing in Precious Gems
Now, before you go scouring eBay for a bargain sapphire, buckle up. Building an investment-worthy gem collection requires both taste and smarts. Here’s how to sparkle smarter.
The ‘Do’s
- Invest in Quality: Always go for natural, untreated gems with proper certifications. A ruby may shout “luxury,” but its value whispers in its transparency and origin.
- Research Market Trends: Keep tabs on high-demand gems. Today, rubies and emeralds are fetching top prices. Diamonds, surprisingly, face growing competition due to lab-grown varieties.
- Work with Reputable Dealers: Trust is everything. Stick to certified platforms that offer genuine, conflict-free stones. Online platforms like Diamondere allow you to shop for vintage ruby rings online with full transparency, where you can customize, pick ethical stones, and even work with professional designers. Such platforms offer both authenticity and quality (a combo rarer than a flawless diamond).
The ‘Don’ts
- Avoid Impulse Buys: Yes, that gem might look like it belongs in a Drake music video, but investments shouldn’t be FOMO-induced decisions.
- Neglect Maintenance: Gemstones need TLC. A careless scratch or exposure to intense light can dull your investment quicker than a bad stock tip.
- Forget About Liquidity: Unlike stocks, jewels are harder to “offload” quickly. Be prepared for longer selling periods. It’s more of a long-term relationship than a one-night Netflix session.
Should You Invest in Gems in 2025?
The answer depends on what you’re after.
If you’re someone who loves the tactile charm of owning a piece of history - and doesn't mind displaying your wealth on your hand - then yes, gems are your playground.
However, treat them as part of a diversified portfolio. Think of precious gems not as your main investment dish but as the decadent dessert - rich, enduring, and satisfying in every bite. After all, even the best gem doesn't work well within a single basket.
Now, go forth and conquer, you savvy future millionaire with exquisite taste!
