From the glistening facets of a diamond to the vibrant hues of an amethyst, gemstones have captivated us for millennia. But what exactly differentiates a precious stone from a semi-precious one?
In this guide, we’ll explore the dissimilarities between these two categories, providing you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your next jewellery purchase.
In the world of gemstones, it’s a similar story. Precious stones are like the A-listers of the gem world – rare, valuable and coveted. Semi-precious stones are still stunning, but they’re a bit more accessible and down-to-earth. Let’s dive in and explore the differences between these two types so you can find the perfect gemstone for your jewellery needs today!
A Gem of a Difference Between Precious and Semi-Precious Stones
While we all know that gemstones are naturally occurring treasures that come from the Earth (or, in the case of pearls, from cute little oysters), all gemstones are not the same. An important distinction is marked between two categories: precious vs. semi-precious stones.
What are Precious Gemstones?
Ah, the elites. Precious gemstones are the OGs of the jewellery world—diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. They come with a history of being flaunted by royalty, further adding to their allure.
They’ve got vivid colours and the kind of sparkle that can make anyone feel like a queen. They are rare, which is why they cost an arm and a leg. There are only so many flawless diamonds or perfect emeralds out there, and that kind of exclusivity makes them expensive.
Precious gemstones aren’t just pretty—they’re also quite tough. They’re the kind of gems you can wear every day without worrying about them scratching or losing their shine.
Precious gemstones are basically the investment pieces of the jewellery world. They’re the Birkin bags, the Chanel suits—the kind of possessions you hand down to your kids one day.
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While the regality of precious gemstones is undeniable, their extravagant price often makes them out of reach for many. But lab-grown gemstones have created a more accessible alternative for those who want the beauty and elegance of natural stones without the hefty price tag.
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Now that you have the alternative of getting the same exquisite sparkle and timeless appeal of precious gemstones without sacrificing months of paychecks, why should you care about semi-precious gemstones? Let’s see what they bring to the table in this battle of precious vs. semi-precious gemstones.
What are Semi-Precious Gemstones?
Semi-precious gemstones might not get the same hype as their precious counterparts but they’ve got a lot going for them—variety, colour and affordability being some.
These stones are still highly desirable and used in both fine and everyday jewellery but they are more abundantly available in nature. Some semi-precious stones, like tanzanite or aquamarine, are almost as valuable and sought-after as precious stones, blurring the lines between the two categories when you compare precious and semi-precious stones.
Other semi-precious gemstones bring their own advantages to the table, and their affordability does not compromise their beauty. Semi-precious gemstones offer brilliant colour and shine too—like a huge rainbow of stones in every shade you can imagine, like amethyst, with its rich, velvety purple shade, perfect for feeling like a princess, even if you’re just chilling at home. Or opal with its colour-changing property and citrine which basically radiates sunshine. Who wouldn’t want that?
Some other popular semi-precious stones include garnet which comes with a deep, rich red that screams confidence, peridot which is a vibrant green gem that makes you feel one with nature and the forever glamorous pearls that never go out of style.
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One important thing to remember when buying semi-precious stones is that not all of them are created equal in terms of toughness. For example, garnet and topaz can handle everyday life but stones like opal and pearl require a little more care. So, it’s important to consider how and when you’ll wear the gemstone before you buy it.
How to Choose Between Precious and Semi-Precious Gemstone Jewellery?
Now that the basic questions around “What are precious gemstones?” and “What are semi-precious gemstones?” have been cleared, how do you choose between the two when it comes to actually buying jewellery?
It basically comes down to a few key factors: your budget, usage, personal preference and the occasion. Here’s a closer look to help guide your choice.
1. Budget
Precious gemstones are expensive so if you’re ready to drop some serious cash on a timeless piece (we’re talking heirloom material), then precious gemstones are your go-to. Expensive – yes, but oh-so worth it.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more fun and less “my credit card’s going to cry,” semi-precious gemstones are where it’s at. Perfect if you’re looking to expand your jewellery collection without sacrificing your future vacation fund.
2. Durability
If you’re the type who wears jewellery all the time (even when you’re doing laundry) then you’ll want something tough. Precious stones are known for being durable so they can handle daily wear without causing damage.
But don’t count out semi-precious stones just yet! Some of them, like amethyst, garnet or topaz are also pretty hard. Only if you’re going for an opal or pearl, you might need to give them a little extra TLC.
3. Personal Preference
This is where the fun begins. Your choice of gemstone should reflect your style and personality. If you’re drawn to vibrant colours, semi-precious stones offer an unmatched variety. And hey, don’t forget to consider your birthstone or zodiac gem. It’s an easy way to add another layer of personal touch to your look.
Want something classic and elegant? Then precious stones may be more your speed. Ultimately, your gemstone choice should resonate with you and your aesthetic.
4. Occasion and Purpose
Finally, think about why you’re buying the jewellery. Is it for a major life moment, like an engagement or a milestone anniversary? In that case, a precious gemstone might be your best bet. They’re timeless, they’re valuable and they make for an amazing investment piece.
But if you’re looking for something more playful or trendy, semi-precious gemstones are perfect. They’re a great way to experiment with different colours, styles and designs that can work for both casual and formal occasions.
It’s important to note that the difference between semi-precious and precious stones is not always clear-cut. The value of a gemstone can be influenced by factors such as its colour, clarity, cut and carat weight. Additionally, cultural preferences and market trends can affect the perceived value of a gemstone.
At the end of the day, your shopping journey should be about finding something that speaks to your soul and helps you celebrate life’s moments with the perfect colour. And with the wide array of gemstones available at Angara, you’re definitely going to find a piece that perfectly fits your story. So, go on, shop and shine!
FAQs:
1. Are semi-precious stones valuable?
Yes! Semi-precious stones are valuable. Their value depends on the rarity, cut, colour and quality of the gemstone in question.
2. What is an example of a precious stone?
There are four precious stones: diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds.
3. What is the difference between precious stones and semi-precious stones?
Generally, precious stones are generally considered more valuable, rare and luxurious, while semi-precious stones are typically less valuable and more abundant.
