1. Antimatter – $62.5 trillion

Antimatter is by far the most expensive substance on Earth, priced at a staggering $62.5 trillion per gram. It consists of particles that mirror those in regular matter, such as positrons instead of electrons. Scientists produce it only in trace amounts using advanced particle accelerators. Due to its incredible energy potential, antimatter could one day power spacecraft or revolutionize medicine. However, producing and storing it remains extremely difficult. As a result, antimatter is still more of a scientific marvel than a practical material.

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2. Californium-252 – $27 million

Californium-252 is a radioactive isotope with remarkable properties, costing around $27 million per gram. First synthesized in 1950, it emits an enormous number of neutrons, making it useful in nuclear reactors, cancer treatment, and detecting gold and silver. Because it’s difficult to manufacture and has a short half-life, only a few grams exist worldwide. Despite its dangers, californium’s power and usefulness make it a valuable resource for specialized industries and scientific research.

Image at Californium Element | Uses, Facts, Physical & Chemical Characteristics

3. Painite – $300,000

Painite is one of the rarest gemstones ever discovered, priced up to $300,000 per gram. It was first found in Myanmar during the 1950s, and for decades, only a handful of crystals were known. Although more have been uncovered recently, high-quality stones are still extremely scarce. With its reddish-brown color and unique chemical makeup, Painite continues to attract gem collectors and researchers alike. Its blend of rarity and beauty secures its place among the most coveted minerals.

Image at Painite – The Rarest Gemstone On Earth – BC Gold Adventures

4. Diamond (Flawless) – $55,000

Flawless diamonds stand at the pinnacle of luxury, valued at around $55,000 per gram. Unlike most diamonds, these gems contain no internal or external flaws, making them exceptionally rare. Their clarity, combined with perfect cut and color, enhances their brilliance and price. While many diamonds are mined yearly, only a tiny fraction meet flawless standards. Because of their purity and visual perfection, they are prized not only in jewelry but also as long-term investments.

Image at Flawless vs VVS Clarity Diamonds | TeachJewelry.com

5. Musgravite – $35,000

Musgravite is an incredibly rare gemstone that can cost up to $35,000 per gram. First discovered in Australia’s Musgrave Ranges in 1967, it shares a close chemical structure with Taaffeite. However, gem-quality Musgravite remains exceptionally hard to find. Although additional deposits have been located in Madagascar and Greenland, very few stones reach the market each year. Due to its scarcity and exotic appearance, Musgravite is in high demand among elite collectors and gemologists.

Image at Musgravite Stone: Its Meaning, Properties & Value

6. Tritium – $30,000

Tritium is a rare radioactive isotope of hydrogen, valued at around $30,000 per gram. It emits a gentle glow, which makes it ideal for applications like watch dials, exit signs, and firearm sights. Unlike other radioactive substances, tritium poses minimal risk in small amounts. However, producing it is extremely expensive and time-consuming. Because of its short half-life and limited supply, tritium remains costly. Still, its ability to provide light without electricity keeps it relevant in specialized markets.

Image at Tritium

7. Taaffeite – $20,000

Taaffeite is a rare gemstone that combines beauty with extreme scarcity, fetching up to $20,000 per gram. Discovered by chance in the 1940s, it was originally mistaken for spinel. This lavender or pinkish stone is mostly found in Sri Lanka and Tanzania, though only in tiny amounts. Because it’s so rare, many jewelers have never handled one. Despite its limited fame, collectors value Taaffeite for its brilliance, hardness, and unique backstory.

Image at The Smartest Person Ever Enrolled At Harvard Was Actually An 11-Year-Old Boy

8. Black Opal – $11,000

Black opals are the most prized among opals, with prices reaching $11,000 per gram. Mined mostly in Lightning Ridge, Australia, these stones display a vivid play of color across a dark background. This contrast enhances the opal’s fiery blues, greens, and reds, making each gem completely unique. Although opals are common, black opals are not. Their rarity, combined with their dramatic beauty, makes them a favorite among gemstone lovers and serious collectors alike.

Image at sedaopals Store

9. Soliris (Eculizumab) – $9,000

Soliris, also known as eculizumab, is one of the world’s most expensive medications, costing about $9,000 per gram. Used to treat rare blood disorders like PNH and aHUS, it helps prevent dangerous immune attacks on red blood cells. Despite its price, many patients depend on it for survival. Developed through complex biotechnology, Soliris requires advanced labs and years of research. As such, it reflects both cutting-edge science and the high costs of developing rare disease treatments.

Image at Soliris Eculizumab Injection, Packaging Size : 1 Vial at best price in Bidar

10. Plutonium – $4,000

Plutonium is a radioactive metal primarily used in nuclear weapons and reactors, priced at around $4,000 per gram. First isolated during World War II, it became a key component of atomic bombs. Today, it also plays a role in space exploration, powering long-term missions with radioisotope generators. However, plutonium’s dangerous nature means it is tightly controlled. Despite its risks, its high energy density and strategic value make it one of the most significant—and costly—substances on Earth.

Image at Scientists produced a sample of plutonium-238, the first for the past three decades

This top list shows the top 10 most expensive materials of all time (per gram).