What Are Precious & Semi-Precious Stones?

If you're a jeweller or interested in gemstones, you have probably heard the term precious and semi-precious stones. 

Diamond, ruby, sapphire and emeralds are all classed as precious stones and all other stones are considered semi-precious stones.

This difference was distinguished in ancient times when these stones were viewed as rare and valuable. This traditional view isn't necessarily true today, as many other semi-precious stones can be considered more valuable and rare than those which are precious.

Discover The Traditional Precious Stones...

Diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds are considered the the four most precious stones. Click one your favourite below to explore our range of gemstones...

Diamond

Diamonds are one of the most sought-after gemstones due to their lustre, durability and rarity. The name comes from the ancient Greek meaning 'unconquerable'. They're the hardest natural substance on earth, made up of nearly 100% carbon and the only thing that will scratch one is another diamond!

Ruby

Ruby is a rare gemstone that is adored for its red colour, durability and incredible lustre. The deep red colour is caused by traces of chromium and in sunlight, rubies have an incredible red glow where its colour is intensified.

Sapphire

Sapphire is a precious gemstone, part of the mineral corundum, known for its incredible lustre and stunning blue colour. Sapphire comes from the Greek meaning 'blue stone' but it also available in other colours, known as 'fancy sapphires' which can be pink, green, yellow, orange and more.

Emerald

Emerald is the green variety of beryl, with a gorgeous green colour which is great for creating beautiful jewellery designs with. The deeper the green, the more valuable the stone! Emeralds are also well known for having inclusions, but we think they add to the beauty of the stone.

Explore All Gemstones In Our Collection

Shop by gemstone and discover the many beautiful range of stones we have available for you to use in your handmade jewellery designs. Available in many forms such as cabochons, faceted stones and beads.

Follow Jewellery Making Tutorials

Wondering how to transform these beautiful precious gems into your own jewellery designs? Discover our huge range of free jewellery making tutorials with step by step projects and guides.

Shop Beginner Friendly Jewellery Making Kits

Our jewellery making kits are a great place to start! They have simple beginner ideas using our popular jewellery settings and easy jewellery making techniques. Each kit has online step by step instructions and a handy one-click shopping list.