A gemstone (also called a fine gem, jewel, precious stone, semiprecious stone, or simply gem) is a piece of mineral crystal which, when cut or polished, is used to make jewelry or other adornments.

Jan 9, 2025 · gemstone, any of various minerals highly prized for beauty, durability, and rarity. A few noncrystalline materials of organic origin (e.g., pearl, red coral, and amber) also are classified as gemstones. Gemstones have attracted humankind since ancient times, and have long been used for jewelry.

New to gemstones? Curious about the different kinds of gemstones? Check out our gemstones list and discover a world of precious and semi-precious stones.

Jun 23, 2022 · Gemstones are minerals, rocks, and other organic materials that are cut and polished to create pieces of jewelry and other attractive accessories for clothing or decorative ornaments. Gems are either considered precious or semi-precious. Fun fact #1: Of the more than 2,000 identified natural minerals, fewer than 100 are used as gemstones.

Even the most general definition of a gem has many exceptions. Learn what qualities have been used to identify gemstones both scientifically and popularly.

Articles about gemstones written by a GIA Graduate Gemologist. Each article includes photos and information about the gem's physical properties and geologic origin.

Gemstones are minerals, rocks, or organic matters that have been chosen for their beauty, durability, and rarity and then cut or faceted and polished to make jewelry or other human adornments. Even though most gemstones are hard, some are too soft or fragile to be used in jewelry, so they are often exhibited in museums and sought by collectors.

Gemstones are naturally occurring, beautiful, and durable minerals, rocks, or organic materials that have been cut, polished, or otherwise fashioned into decorative items. They can be found in various forms, such as faceted gems, cabochons, beads, and carvings.

Dec 29, 2023 · Gemstones can be classified into two categories: precious and semi-precious. Precious gemstones include diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds—known for their rarity and exceptional beauty. Semi-precious gemstones encompass a wide range of others including amethyst, turquoise, opal, and more.

Gemstones are precious and semi-precious stones that are highly valued for their beauty, rarity, and durability. They are typically cut and polished to enhance their appearance and are used in jewelry, decorative objects, and various forms of art.