What is the Difference Between Precious and Semi Precious Stones?

The difference between precious and semi-precious stones is primarily based on their rarity, quality, and value. There are only four precious stones: diamond, sapphire, ruby, and emerald. All other stones are considered semi-precious. However, this classification is not always accurate, as some semi-precious stones can be more valuable and rare than precious stones.

Precious stones are distinguished by their quality, rarity, and the beauty of their colors. They are more expensive than semi-precious stones and follow the same color, cut, and clarity rules as diamonds for value.

Semi-precious stones, on the other hand, are generally more abundant and less expensive than precious stones. Some well-known semi-precious stones include amethyst, topaz, peridot, citrine, and aquamarine. The term "semi-precious" does not mean that these stones are less beautiful than precious stones; it simply reflects their relative rarity and value.

The distinction between precious and semi-precious stones is not always clear-cut, as some semi-precious stones can be more valuable and rare than precious stones. As a result, many professionals in the gemstone industry avoid categorizing stones as precious and semi-precious, focusing instead on factors such as rarity, color, and cut.

Comparative Table: Precious vs Semi Precious Stones

The main difference between precious and semi-precious stones lies in their quality, rarity, and beauty. There are only four precious stones: diamond, sapphire, ruby, and emerald. All other stones are considered semi-precious. Here is a table comparing the differences between precious and semi-precious stones:

It is essential to note that the term "semi-precious" does not imply that these stones are less beautiful than precious stones. In fact, some semi-precious stones, such as tsavorite green garnet, may be more expensive than a medium-quality sapphire. Additionally, many semi-precious stones are rarer than precious stones.

The distinction between precious and semi-precious stones is also related to their hardness, which translates into scratch resistance. On the Mohs scale, which ranks minerals from 1 to 10, diamond (10/10), ruby (9/10), sapphire (9/10), and emerald (7.5-8/10) are considered the hardest.