Earth's Priciest Elements: From Carbon Diamonds to Gold Fortunes

Californium (Cf): A rare and radioactive element, Californium-252 is the most expensive element, used in neutron radiography and cancer treatment. It can cost up to $27 million per gram.

Francium (Fr): Extremely rare and highly radioactive, Francium is found in trace amounts in uranium and thorium ores, with an estimated cost of around $1 billion per gram.

Rhodium (Rh): A precious metal with excellent corrosion resistance, Rhodium is used in catalytic converters, jewelry, and mirrors. It costs approximately $600,000 per kilogram.

Platinum (Pt): Known for its durability and resistance to tarnish, Platinum is used in jewelry, catalytic converters, and electronics. It’s valued at about $30,000 per kilogram.

Gold (Au): A symbol of wealth and luxury, Gold is widely used in jewelry, electronics, and as an investment. It currently costs around $60 per gram.

Palladium (Pd): Similar to platinum, Palladium is used in catalytic converters, electronics, and hydrogen purification, with a price of about $1,500 per ounce.

Diamond (C): While not an element in its pure form, Carbon in the form of diamond is extremely valuable, particularly in jewelry, with high-quality diamonds fetching over $10,000 per carat.

Tritium (T or ³H): A radioactive isotope of hydrogen, Tritium is used in self-luminous devices and nuclear fusion research, costing around $30,000 per gram.