DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PRECIOUS AND SEMI PRECIOUS GEMSTONES

When it comes to gemstones, you may have heard of the terms “precious” and “semi-precious” gemstones. But what do these terms mean and what is the difference between them? In this blog post, we will explore the differences between precious and semi-precious gemstones to help you understand more about the world of gemstones and jewelry.

WHAT ARE PRECIOUS GEMSTONES?

Precious gemstones are typically considered to be the highest quality and most valuable gemstones available. They are also rare, meaning that they are harder to find and can often cost more than other gemstones. These stones include diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, all of which have a long history of being valued for their beauty and rarity. Each of these loose gemstones is unique in its characteristics, color, and clarity, making them ideal for use in jewelry or as an investment piece.

WHAT ARE SEMI-PRECIOUS GEMSTONES?

Semi-precious gemstones often have beautiful, vibrant colors and interesting patterns that make them popular for jewelry and other decorative items. Generally, semi-precious stones are more affordable than precious gemstones, making them accessible to all budgets.

Some examples of semi-precious stones include amethyst, citrine, opal, turquoise, lapis lazuli, jasper, and agate. Each stone has its own unique set of characteristics and can be used in different types of jewelry and craft projects.

Semi-precious gemstones are generally easier to find than precious stones since they are less rare. However, it's important to remember that just because a stone is less expensive; it doesn't mean that it isn't valuable. Each semi-precious stone has its unique beauty and can be crafted into stunning jewelry pieces that are sure to be treasured for years to come.

HOW ARE THEY DIFFERENT?

The main difference between precious and semi-precious gemstones lies in the rarity and value of the stones. Precious gemstones are considered to be extremely rare, and generally cost more than semi-precious stones. Examples of precious gemstones include diamonds, rubies, and sapphires, while semi-precious gemstones include amethyst, quartz, opal, and turquoise.

The hardness of a gemstone also plays an important role in distinguishing between precious and semi-precious stones. Precious gemstones tend to have a higher rating on the mohs scale of hardness, making them more resistant to scratches and damage. For example, diamonds are considered the hardest gemstone, with a rating of 10 on the Mohs scale. Semi-precious stones typically rate lower on the scale, making them more prone to damage.

The color and clarity of a gemstone also impact its value. Precious gemstones are usually clearer and richer in color than their semi-precious counterparts. Diamonds, for example, are prized for their brilliance and fire. Similarly, rubies and sapphires are valued for their vibrant hues. While semi-precious stones also come in a variety of colors and clarity levels, they generally lack the high quality that is associated with precious stones.

Overall, the main differences between precious and semi-precious gemstones can be summarized as follows: rarity, hardness, color and clarity, and value. While precious gems may cost more than semi-precious stones, both types of gemstones can be beautiful additions to any collection.

Are you looking for a special piece of jewelry or an eye-catching addition to your collection of natural gemstones? At GemsBiz, we offer a wide range of both precious and semi-precious gemstones to choose from.

Whether you're looking for natural green emerald stones or violet-purple amethysts, GemsBiz has something for everyone. Browse our selection of precious and semi-precious gemstones to find the perfect piece for you or a loved one!