A century ago crude oil was the most valuable substance on the planet, but the coronavirus pandemic caused the price per barrel to plummet. The price of black gold only returned to pre-pandemic levels in February. But how have the likes of diamonds, gold, and platinum fared? And there are a host of other obscure materials you’ve probably never heard of that command a high price due to the fact they’re ultra-rare, hard to extract or valued for highly unique properties. Click or scroll through to discover the most valuable substances on Earth, using prices as of 16 June 2021.