Understanding Precious and Semi-Precious Stones
Do you always wonder which coloured gemstones are considered “Precious” and which are “Semi-precious”? These are common questions for many people who are gaining interest in gemstone jewellery in Singapore but need more knowledge and understanding of them. The past decade has seen a resurgence in their popularity, thanks to increasing awareness through the internet and marketing. Developments in certification, industry transparency, and gemological reports have also boosted consumers’ confidence in coloured gemstones.
The Origins of “Precious” and “Semi-Precious” Gemstones
Did you know that coloured gemstones have been sought after for centuries? Historically, they were worn for their talismanic properties and were believed to be gifts from the gods. Emperors and empresses wore them to cement their status. In the early days, only a few gemstones were appreciated by nobles and royalty: diamonds, emeralds, pearls, blue sapphires, and rubies, which are now often featured in high jewellery collections. These gemstones were dubbed “Precious” due to their demand and association with wealth and power. Other gemstones, less researched and understood, were labelled “Semi-precious,” a stigma that persists today.
Misidentification of Gemstones in History
Were coloured gemstones often identified wrongly in the past? The answer is yes. For example, Red Spinel was frequently mistaken for Ruby because of its similar properties and occurrence in the same geological environment. The famous “Black Prince Ruby” mounted on the British Crown, which turned out to be a glowing red uncut Spinel, is a notable example. This historical misidentification highlights the lack of knowledge and the need for accurate gemological practices.
The Value of Semi-Precious Gemstones
There is no defined line between “Precious” and “Semi-precious.” This categorisation resulted from demand and available information in the past. Unknown gemstones were assumed to be of lesser value. Tourmaline is an excellent example. Once thought worthless and “Semi-precious,” the Paraiba variety of Tourmaline is now highly coveted. A fine piece of Paraiba can command a higher value than a diamond of similar size. Only one Paraiba is mined for every 10,000 diamonds; top-quality large stones can cost up to $60,000 per carat. With increasing knowledge and awareness of “Semi-precious” gemstones, their demand will continue to rise, revealing that many are rarer than previously thought.
Bespoke Jewellery: Highlighting Gemstones' Unique Value
The growing appreciation for coloured gemstones has also influenced the world of jewellery design. Bespoke and custom jewellery offer unique ways to showcase the beauty and value of both precious and semi-precious gemstones. Bespoke jewellery allows you to create personalised pieces that reflect your style and personality. By choosing specific gemstones, you can design jewellery that is not only beautiful but also meaningful. Custom jewellery takes personalisation a step further by allowing you to tailor existing designs to your preferences. You can incorporate semi-precious gemstones that may hold personal significance or match your aesthetic preferences. As more people discover the beauty and rarity of coloured stones, bespoke jewellery is a perfect platform to celebrate and showcase these hidden treasures.
The Future of Coloured Gemstones
As demand for coloured gemstones grows, appreciation for both "Precious" and "Semi-precious" stones increases. Advances in gemological science and industry transparency are helping consumers recognize the value of lesser-known gemstones, breaking down historical stigmas, and highlighting the importance of fine jewellery in modern collections. This trend blurs the lines between "Precious" and "Semi-precious," emphasising the unique qualities of each stone. Modern awareness and appreciation redefine these categories, encouraging exploring bespoke jewellery where the hidden treasures await.
To discover the world of coloured gemstones through an extensive range of loose gemstones and high jewellery creations, book an appointment to visit Maison Simone with a jewellery consultant for an introduction.
