Gemstone Education

EDUCATION:

Semi-Precious Stones

Semi-precious stones are a large group of gemstones that are not considered as rare or valuable as precious stones but are still highly prized for their beauty and unique properties. The term "semi-precious" is a historical label of the gemstone trade and does not necessarily reflect the actual value or quality of these gemstones. Some examples of semi-precious stones include amethyst, aquamarine, citrine, garnet, jade, lapis lazuli, moonstone, opal, peridot, topaz, tourmaline, and turquoise, among many others.

These gemstones have been used for thousands of years in jewellery, in ornamental/decorative objects, or in religious objects. Each gemstone containing it's own special properties and characteristics. It is difficult to give an exact number of semi-precious stones because the term is used to describe a large and diverse group of gemstones. The classification of gemstones as precious or semi-precious is not a scientific or objective one, and different cultures and individuals may have different criteria for what constitutes a precious or semi-precious stone.