The most important thing to note first: precious stones and semi-precious stones are two different categories - even if it is not possible to make a 100% distinction and the boundaries are sometimes fluid. As a rule of thumb, if a material is hard enough, i.e. cleavable, it is considered a precious stone, anything below that is considered a semi-precious stone... but if in doubt, just take a look at the price: precious stones such as diamonds, topazes, rubies and sapphires are not only much more durable, but also rarer - and therefore more expensive than semi-precious stones such as amethysts, emeralds, rubies, opals, kunzite or garnets.
Gemstones
Gemstones are always minerals and have a high light refraction, warm colors, a hardness level of 8 or higher according to Mohs and a rare occurrence. The price of a gemstone is therefore much higher than that of a semi-precious stone and is calculated in detail according to rarity, weight, cut and purity. Internal and external features are also characteristic of gemstones: inclusions of liquids or gas bubbles, which are not seen as defects but as the stone's "fingerprint".
Gemstones
Gemstones include minerals, but also rocks or natural glasses. Gemstones have a hardness level of less than 8 on the Mohs scale, have low light refraction, are colder in color and are more common than precious stones, and are therefore much cheaper. Characteristic inclusions can also occur in gemstones and are important features for distinguishing them.
Types of cut
Which type of cut?
The decision as to which type of cut is appropriate for the precious or semi-precious stone depends on the following criteria: the hardness of the stone, the crystal shape, the cleavage and the internal characteristics.
The stone cutter examines the raw crystal and decides on a type of cut that will best highlight the beauty of the stone. Therefore, no two hand-cut stones are 100% identical.
In addition to the “classic” brilliant cut, there are over 100 other types of cuts.
- Brilliant cut: Round, with precisely defined proportions and facets
- Cabochon cut: Hemispherical or conical, i.e. without facets.
- Carrée Cut: Square, step cut, faceted
- Princess cut: octagonal, square or rectangular, faceted
Gemstones:
- Gemstones are natural minerals that are distinguished by their rarity, purity and hardness.
- They are considered valuable minerals due to their exceptional quality and rarity.
- The most popular gemstones include diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds.
- The formation of gemstones usually occurs deep underground over a long period of time.
Gemstones:
- Gemstones can be both natural and synthetic stones used for jewelry purposes.
- Unlike gemstones, the term "gemstone" is defined by its use rather than by its natural rarity.
- Gemstones include a wide range of minerals such as amethyst, aquamarine, zircon and many others.
- They can be found in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes and offer a more cost-effective alternative to gemstones.
The main difference lies in the natural rarity and outstanding properties of gemstones compared to semi-precious stones. While gemstones are more highly valued due to their purity and rarity, semi-precious stones offer a diverse selection for jewelry lovers with different budgets. However, both help in creating unique and impressive jewelry pieces.
Zugehöriges Produkt
Necklace
€769,00
