What's the difference between a gem and a jewel? (2024)

What's the difference between a gem and a jewel? (1)

Introduction

Gems and jewels are the same things, although they're at various phases of processing. Because some people are unfamiliar with this terminology, there are numerous misconceptions about the distinctions between the two objects. A gem, often known as a gemstone, is an unpolished precious or semiprecious stone, even though some use the terms interchangeably. On the other hand, a jewel is a polished gemstone that is frequently worn as jewellery or as a valuable wearable object; as a result, gemstones and jewels are nearly identical.

Rarity, beauty, and durability are the traits that a stone must possess to be classified as a gemstone. They should also be made of naturally occurring minerals. Diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds are some of the most well-known gemstones. After the gemstones have been transformed into jewels, they are assessed for post-processing features and natural looks, such as cut quality, carat (weight), transparent colour, and clarity. The higher the level of these qualities, the more valuable the jewel; hence, raw gemstones are less expensive.

Difference between gem and jewel

A valuable or semi-precious gemstone, especially in cut and polished form, is referred to as a gem. Gemstones may be utilised for both jewellery and astrology. Nowadays, valuable gemstones such as yellow sapphire, blue sapphire, ruby gemstone, emerald gemstone, and diamond may be found worldwide.

Jewel- Jewellery, such as rings, necklaces, and earrings, is a type of personal ornamentation. Ornaments are made of gold, diamonds, or other metals such as platinum.

When used as nouns, gem and jewel refer to a valuable stone with a high monetary worth or appreciated for its beauty or lustre, whereas gem refers to a precious or semi-precious stone. When used as verbs, gem and jewel imply decorating with or as if with jewels and bejewel.

Common myths associated with gems and jewels

If you're wondering if diamonds and gemstones are the same things, the quick answer is no. Diamonds may be treated to become the well-known, exquisite jewel that many people are familiar with. Still, they are classified as gemstone before they are cut since they are uncommon and a naturally-derived mineral. It's also possible to assume that diamonds come from a certain area, whereas gemstones don't, which makes them more valuable.

This is also not true because many untreated gemstones have a recognised origin, such as rubies and emeralds. The fact that treated diamonds have been processed increases their value. Diamonds can also be low-quality and hence less expensive if they are not pure or have a common colour. People, on the other hand, frequently perceive diamonds to be valuable minerals. They may also be split into these categories for ease of use while purchasing at a store. As a result, one should be aware of this erroneous language.

Treated gold and platinum metals are even called jewels by some since they have been processed and are of high worth. These things, however, are classified as precious metals since they are not minerals. According to popular belief, diamonds are more valuable than other stones (or even that they aren't jewels at all). Thankfully, understanding that a gem is an uncooked stone and a jewel is a polished gemstone clears up a lot of the ambiguity.

Buying your favourite gems and jewels from IrisGems

IrisGems is a family-run independent jeweller that has been operated since 1985 and is available to assist you with your jewellery purchase. We are here to assist you, whether you want to acquire a classic gold or diamond piece or have your jewellery evaluated by our pawnbroking staff. We recognise the value of having an extensive range of gemstones to pick from while assisting our customers.

To discover some hidden treasures within our king-sized selection. To assure quality, in-house cutting and gemologists are used in Asia. Because we have the cutting machinery and experienced personnel to cut precisely to 1/10th of a degree, we can provide you with consistent quality. Our stones are calibrated to perfection, have exact facets, and are simple to put in your jewellery. Gubelin, SSEF, GRS, GIA, and AGL certifications are available.

What's the difference between a gem and a jewel? (2024)
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