Semi-Precious vs Precious Gemstones: Why the Old Labels No Longer Work

I can’t count the number of times I’ve asked myself: what really sets so-called precious and semi-precious stones apart? Is it their rarity? Colour? Durability? Value? Or is it simply tradition—an outdated hierarchy we’ve inherited without question.

The label semi-precious remains stubbornly common in the jewellery world, but it feels increasingly at odds with how we value gemstones today. While diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds have long been linked to royalty and status, they’re far from the only stones worthy of admiration or investment. In fact, calling certain gems semi-precious feels a bit like calling an Aston Martin semi-luxury: it just doesn’t reflect the beauty, rarity or significance of what’s in front of you.