What Are Semi-Precious Gemstones?

Semi-precious gems are often used in jewelry.

In "Rocks, Gems, and Minerals," Herbert Spencer Zim defines semi-precious gemstones as those other than diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires, which are the most highly valued rocks. While not as rare, a variety of semi-precious gemstones are appreciated for their appearance and physical qualities.

Topaz

True topaz may come in several shades, including yellow, gray, green, blue and red. According to Oliver Cummings Farrington of "Gems and Gem Minerals," topaz may be found in and mined from larger deposits of minerals, such as "gneiss, or granite, with tourmaline, mica, beryl."

Garnet

Garnets are often a dark red color.

Garnet, a hard and not easily destructible stone, is often found in crystal form. Ancient Mediterranean people regarded garnets highly, and Farrington describes how garnets were often found buried with Egyptian mummies.

Quartz

Quartz comes in a variety of forms and colors.

Quartz is one of the most common semi-precious gemstones. The term "rhinestone" originates from the quartz pebbles found at the bottom of the river Rhine.

References

• "Rocks, Gems, and Minerals: A Guide to Familiar Minerals, Gems, Ores and Rocks"; Herbert Spencer Zim, Paul R. Shaffer and Raymond Perlman; 2001
• "Gems and Gem Minerals"; Oliver Cummings Farrington; 1903