What is a semi precious stone?
Semiprecious stones are commonly defined as any stone suitable for jewelry except diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires, which are considered precious stones. Some semiprecious stones are actually more rare and costly that precious stones. Precious and semiprecious stones are all gemstones or gems.HistoryAmethysts were once considered precious gems. Along with diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires, they comprised the five “cardinal gems.” During European exploration of South America, an abundance or amethysts were found and the stone lost its precious or cardinal status.Semiprecious Stones in Art and DesignSemiprecious stones have diverse uses in jewelry-making. Polished or faceted stones are set into silver or gold, drilled into beads, or decoratively wrapped in wire. Semiprecious stones can also be used to make art objects such as small containers or figurines.Treated GemstonesSemiprecious stones are sometimes treated to change or enhance color. Aquamarines and tanzanite are
