Precious vs Semi-Precious Stones in Jewellery - What is the Difference?

Precious stones and semi-precious stones are terms used to describe gemstones, which are minerals or other materials that are cut and polished to be used in jewellery or other decorative items. These terms are not scientific and are not based on any specific criteria, but rather, they are based on traditional conventions and the perceived value of the stones.

Precious stones are considered to be more valuable and rare than semi-precious stones. There are only four stones that are traditionally considered to be precious: diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. These stones are highly sought after for their beauty, rarity, and durability, and they are often used in the creation of fine jewellery.

Semi-precious stones, on the other hand, are not as valuable or rare as precious stones. They are still used in jewellery and decorative items, but they are not as highly sought after as precious stones. There are many different types of semi-precious stones, including amethyst, garnet, turquoise, opal, and many others.

The value of a gemstone is determined by a variety of factors, including its rarity, beauty, and durability. Precious stones are considered to be more valuable because they are rarer and more beautiful than semi-precious stones. They are also more durable and resistant to damage, which makes them more suitable for use in fine jewellery.

Semi-precious stones are still valued for their beauty and are often used in jewellery and decorative items. However, they are not as rare or durable as precious stones, so they are generally not as valuable.

In addition to their traditional value, the perceived value of a gemstone can also be influenced by fashion trends and cultural associations. For example, diamonds have long been considered to be the most valuable and desirable of all gemstones, but this perception has been shaped by a combination of their natural qualities and their popularity in the jewellery industry.

While the terms "precious" and "semi-precious" are often used to describe gemstones, it is important to note that these terms are not based on any scientific criteria and do not necessarily reflect the actual value or quality of a gemstone. Ultimately, the value of a gemstone is determined by its beauty, rarity, and durability, and these factors can vary widely from one stone to the next.

 Precious Stones - Special Characteristics

Emeralds are a type of beryl that is colored green by the presence of chromium and vanadium. They are known for their deep, rich green color and are highly prized for their beauty. Emeralds are relatively rare and are often found in Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil.

In addition to their natural beauty and rarity, emeralds are also highly durable, making them suitable for use in fine jewellery. However, they are not as hard as some other gemstones, such as diamonds, and are more prone to scratching and other forms of damage. As a result, they are often treated with a coating or other protective layer to help preserve their beauty and durability.

The traditional classification of emeralds as a precious stone is based on their perceived value and rarity, rather than any specific scientific criteria. However, emeralds are generally considered to be more valuable and desirable than semi-precious stones due to their beauty, rarity, and durability.

Rubies are considered to be precious stones because they are rare, beautiful, and durable. These characteristics make them highly sought after for use in fine jewellery and other decorative items.

Rubies are a type of corundum that is colored red by the presence of chromium. They are known for their deep, rich red color and are highly prized for their beauty. Rubies are relatively rare and are often found in Myanmar, Thailand, and Afghanistan.

In addition to their natural beauty and rarity, rubies are also highly durable, making them suitable for use in fine jewellery. They are resistant to scratching and other forms of damage, which makes them a popular choice for use in rings, necklaces, and other types of jewellery.

The traditional classification of rubies as a precious stone is based on their perceived value and rarity, rather than any specific scientific criteria. However, rubies are generally considered to be more valuable and desirable than semi-precious stones due to their beauty, rarity, and durability.

Sapphires are a type of corundum that is colored blue by the presence of trace amounts of iron and titanium. They are known for their deep, rich blue color and are highly prized for their beauty. Sapphires are relatively rare and are often found in Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Australia.

In addition to their natural beauty and rarity, sapphires are also highly durable, making them suitable for use in fine jewellery. They are resistant to scratching and other forms of damage, which makes them a popular choice for use in rings, necklaces, and other types of jewellery.

The traditional classification of sapphires as a precious stone is based on their perceived value and rarity, rather than any specific scientific criteria. However, sapphires are generally considered to be more valuable and desirable than semi-precious stones due to their beauty, rarity, and durability.

The traditional classification of diamonds, emeralds, rubies & sapphires as precious stones is based on their perceived value and rarity, rather than any specific scientific criteria. However, these stones are generally considered to be more valuable and desirable than semi-precious stones due to their beauty, rarity, and durability.

Last but not the least, diamonds. There are several factors that contribute to the special qualities of diamonds:

Hardness: Diamonds are the hardest known substance and are highly resistant to scratching and other forms of damage. This makes them suitable for use in fine jewellery and other decorative items.

Brilliance and fire: Diamonds are known for their brilliance, which is the way they reflect light, and their fire, which is the way they refract light into rainbow-colored flashes. These characteristics give diamonds their sparkling appearance.

Rarity: Diamonds are relatively rare and are only found in a few specific locations around the world. This rarity contributes to their value and desirability.

Beauty: Diamonds are highly prized for their beauty, with their sparkling appearance and clear, colorless appearance making them a popular choice for use in jewellery and other decorative items.

Cultural associations: Diamonds have long been associated with love, commitment, and prosperity, and they have been highly valued for centuries. This cultural significance adds to their allure and value.

 More on Semi-Precious Stones:

Semi-precious stones are used in jewellery for a variety of reasons. Some of the main reasons include:

Beauty: Many semi-precious stones are known for their beauty and are used to create attractive and visually appealing jewellery.

Variety: There are many different types of semi-precious stones, each with its own unique color, pattern, and other characteristics. This variety allows for the creation of a wide range of different styles and looks in jewellery.

Affordability: Semi-precious stones are generally less expensive than precious stones, making them a more affordable option for use in jewellery.

Durability: While semi-precious stones are not as hard or durable as precious stones, many are still resistant to scratching and other forms of damage and are suitable for use in jewellery.

Cultural significance: Some semi-precious stones have cultural significance or are associated with certain meanings or symbolism. For example, turquoise is often associated with good luck and protection, while amethyst is often associated with spirituality and sobriety.

Overall, the combination of their beauty, variety, affordability, durability, and cultural significance makes semi-precious stones a popular choice for use in jewellery.

So which type of stones do you like in your jewellery? Precious or semi precious? Check out Aadyaa’s elegant & unique gemstone studded jewellery collection today!