The most valuable spice in the world. Coveted for its fragrance and colouring abilities.
Saffron is one of the most precious spices in the world, retailing for more than $500 an ounce (28g). It is so expensive because it is an extremely labor-intensive crop. Crocus sativa, or the saffron crocus, flowers in the fall. Each flower has three tiny, threadlike stigmas in the center.
Saffron is called azafran in Spanish and is a spice that has a special place in history, always having been considered very valuable. In fact, at one point it was even used as currency. ... Today almost three-quarters of the world's production of saffron is grown in Spain, specifically in the region of Castilla-La Mancha.