What Are Semi-precious Stones?
Historically used by various cultures around the world, the value of semi-precious stones truly lies in the eye of the beholder. Although their monetary value does not equal that of the diamond, semi-precious stones have many unique qualities and purposes which are of significant practical and spiritual value in our society today. Does this Spark an idea?
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Defining Semi-precious Stones
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The difference between precious and semi-precious stones exists only in their estimated value. Diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds hold the highest monetary value; therefore, they may be classified as precious, not semi-precious stones. However, how much a gemstone is worth depends on variables such as fashion trends and cultural preferences. Because the popularity of gemstones may increase over time, their estimated value may also increase. Therefore, because a gemstone's value may be subjective to outside factors, many gemologists choose to no longer separate gemstones into these two categories.
Nevertheless, examples of gemstones that have been traditionally classified as semi-precious include amethyst, aquamarine, carnelian, citrine, garnet, jade, opal, moonstone, peridot, topaz, tourmaline, and quartz crystal.
Organic Examples
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Some semi-precious gemstones are classified as organic because they are essentially not of mineral origin. Organic gemstones are derived from plants and animal sources. These softer materials are usually polished or carved as opposed to being cut into facets.
Amber is an organic stone that is formed through fossilized tree sap. As this resin hardens, insects and plants may become trapped within it. This is what makes amber so unique. Amber is generally translucent and golden orange or dark red in color.
Other examples of organic semi-precious stones include jet, coral, pearl, and ivory.
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Distinguishing Features
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Tiger's eye is one semi-precious stone with unique distinguishing features. A type of quartz mineral in the chalcedony family, tiger's eye gets its unusual name from its telltale appearance. It has a waxy appearance, and its black background with yellow and orange stripes looks similar to the eye of a tiger.
Another example of a stone with unique distinguishing features is the opal. Found primarily in Australia, the popularity of opal has risen and fallen over the years. The exciting flashes of different colors that can be seen when the stone is rotated in the light are what make opal look so interesting. Ordered silica spheres within opal give it this unique quality.
Practical Uses
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Other than being fashioned into jewelry such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings or fastened to clothing for decorative purposes, semi-precious stones have other practical uses. For instance, quartz crystals are found in places such as control circuits, machines, electronics, industrial tools, and even credit cards. Very thin quartz crystal slices help to keep time in quartz watches. An alternating electrical charge placed on the crystal causes it to vibrate. This makes quartz crystal an excellent electrical conductor.
Spiritual Associations
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The laying on of stones is an ancient art. It is believed that as light reflects off of the crystals, the aura (electromagnetic field) of the body absorbs this energy and uses it for healing.
Throughout history, gemstones have been used for various spiritual purposes. For instance, the ancient Chinese believed that jade had the power to give life, which is why they used it to preserve the dead. Spanish conquerors of Mexico believed that jade would cure kidney ailments.
Many types of semi-precious stones have been worn or carried as talismans for good luck and protection. Stones traditionally used for protection include hematite, pyrite, amethyst, black onyx, and jasper. Stones that are considered good luck charms include jade, cat's eye, tourmaline, red jasper, and garnet, to name a few.
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