Gemstones are admired worldwide, but not all stones have the same value. To make things simple, they are divided into Precious and Semi-Precious gemstones. Let’s understand the difference.
Precious Gemstones
Precious gemstones are the rarest, most durable, and highly valuable. There are only four stones in this category:
- Diamond – valued for its brilliance and strength.
- Ruby – prized for its fiery red color.
- Emerald – famous for its rich green beauty.
- Sapphire – admired for its deep blue shades and royal connection.
These gems are rare, expensive, and often passed down as heirlooms.
Semi-Precious Gemstones
All other gemstones fall into this category. Semi-precious stones may be more common, but they are still stunning and meaningful. Examples include:
- Amethyst – purple and calming.
- Aquamarine – blue and soothing.
- Peridot – green and fresh-looking.
- Topaz – found in many colors, especially yellow and blue.
- Garnet – deep red and energizing.
The Key Difference
The main difference lies in rarity and value. Precious gemstones are scarce and extremely costly, while semi-precious ones are relatively affordable and more accessible.
Both categories, however, hold beauty and importance. Whether someone chooses a precious ruby or a semi-precious amethyst, each gemstone adds charm, elegance, and personal meaning.