Rarest Gems:
* Red Beryl: Also known as "Bixbite," it's incredibly rare and found only in Utah, USA. Its vibrant red color is highly sought after.
* Grandidierite: Discovered in Madagascar, it has a unique blue-green hue and is known for its pleochroism (changing color depending on the light).
* Demantoid Garnet: Its brilliant, green brilliance rivals diamonds. It's very rare and found in Russia and Namibia.
* Benitoite: This gem displays vivid blue fluorescence under UV light and is mainly found in California, USA.
Most Durable Gems:
* Diamond: The hardest known natural mineral, making it highly resistant to scratches and damage.
* Corundum (Ruby and Sapphire): Ranked just below diamond in hardness, these gems are also extremely durable.
Most Beautiful Gems:
* Opal: Known for its unique play of color, often displaying a rainbow of hues. It's highly subjective, as different people find different opals beautiful.
* Alexandrite: A rare gem that changes color from green in daylight to red under incandescent light.
* Tanzanite: A stunning gem with a vibrant blue-violet hue.
* Emerald: A mesmerizing green gem known for its brilliance and clarity.
Other factors to consider:
* Availability: Some gems, like red beryl, are so rare that finding a large, high-quality stone is almost impossible.
* Treatment: Many gems undergo treatments to enhance their color or clarity, which can affect their value and durability.
* Personal preference: Ultimately, the "best" gem is the one you find most beautiful and appealing.
Remember, gem rarity, durability, and beauty are all subjective and can vary depending on the individual gem and its specific characteristics.