What is the difference between precious stones and semi-precious stones?
The difference is related to their historical value and use in jewelry and has nothing to do with their metaphysical value. Diamonds, Emeralds, Rubies, Pearls and Sapphires are classified as “precious” stones and are highly prized for their beauty and clarity so are most often cut with facets and highly polished to better reflect light and draw attention to their inner splendor. Before they are cut, polished or set (except for pearls) they look quite ordinary and may even look like mud. If you have ever seen an uncut diamond “in the rough” it is hard to believe that it is the same thing that is in your mother’s engagement ring!There are about 120 other gemstones classified as semi-precious, including Citrine, Amethyst, Topaz, Opal, Aquamarine, Peridot, Lapis Lazuli etc. These can also be cut, faceted and polished for gemstone use as jewelry.
