Gemstones

A gemstone is a piece of mineral crystal which, in cut and polished form, is used to make jewelry or other adornments. It can also be called a fine gem, jewel, precious stone, or semi-precious stone, depending on the specific mineral. There are some gemstones used for jewelry such as lapis lazuli and opal, and a few organic materials such as amber, jet, and pearl as well. Most gemstones are hard, but there are some soft minerals are used in jewelry because for their luster or other physical properties. Rarity and notoriety are other characteristics that lend value to gemstones.

The earliest engraved gems and hardstone carvings, such as cups, were luxury art items. A gem maker is called a lapidary or gemcutter.