Different Types of Precious Stones and Their Meanings
Precious - pre·cious - adjective - 1. (of an object, substance, or resource) of great value; not to be wasted or treated carelessly. 2. greatly loved or treasured by someone. Going by the definition every piece of jewelry you own is precious in some way, but there are actually only 4 gemstones that are classified as precious, but most people believe only 4 gemstones are classified as precious, these are the ones we will focus on today. Gemstones are minerals, rocks or organic matter that have been cut, polished and then fashioned into a piece of jewelry. In the 1800s these gemstones were divided into two categories: precious and semi-precious. Explore what these precious stones are and what they mean.
While some gemstones have been deeply rooted in myths and legends throughout human history, others have only been recently discovered. Regardless, all these precious and non-precious stones possess unique beauty and significant meaning. In fact, many gemstones are thought to hold special powers and bring about certain fortune for those who wear them.
There are many rumors and myths surrounding gemstones and how many are classified as precious stones. Most commonly these 4 gemstones are said to be the precious stones and they are rumored to be most expensive and the most sought after, they include: Diamonds, Rubies, Blue Sapphire, and Emeralds. This is not actually true, but for simplicity sake we will focus on these 4 precious stones.
Meanings of the Precious Stones:
Emerald - Through time, the emerald has been known as a symbol of truth and love. The emerald is also known as a stone of intuition, associated with sight and the revelation of future events and truths. In ancient times the emerald was also considered to be a stone of love, its green color representing vitality, new beginnings and the spring season. For this reason, it's the perfect gemstone to represent happy new beginnings, love and an eternal relationship. Emerald can also represent a faithful relationship and strong natural connection with a partner.
Ruby - Through the ages, the ruby has represented nobility, purity, and passion. The ruby is known as a protective stone that can bring happiness and passion into the life of the wearer. Because the ruby's hue is close to the color of blood, which carries oxygen to all parts of the body, the gemstone also represents vitality and vigor; it is believed that the stone has the power to align and lend energy to the body. The ruby is also believed to protect the wearer from negative entities that leach positive energy, promoting spiritual vitality and wellness overall.
Blue Sapphire - The Blue Sapphire is traditionally associated with purity and love. It assists you to stay on the spiritual path, releasing blockages and providing strength. Blue Sapphire facilitates self-expression, assisting in communication and expressing your truth and beliefs. Since medieval times, sapphire has been associated with the majesty and tranquility of the heavens, and believed to to dispel evil thoughts and to bring peace and amiability to its wearer
Diamond - Traditionally seen as a symbol of faithfulness, love, purity, innocence and relationships filled with love, diamonds have been regarded over the centuries as a love-bearing crystal which are ‘dependable in its virtues when received as a gift’ - no wonder they are traditionally used in engagement and wedding rings. Believing the illumination and reflection of a diamond will inspire imagination and ingenuity in its wearer, they also bring about strength, fortitude and courage through a diamond’s hardness and ‘invincibility’ having the power to drive away bad energy or fortune.
Every other gemstone that isn’t one of the above four is considered to be semi precious. There is no scientific backing between the distinction. When these stones were first categorized, it was mainly due to the rarity and the value of the 4 precious stones versus the rest. Today there are some semi precious stones that are more rare and more valuable than the precious stones.
When purchasing a gemstone, keep in mind, all gemstones are precious in the sense of personal meaning and value to you personally. The emotional value of a piece of jewelry can far outweigh its monetary value. Do you have a piece of jewelry that holds sentimental value, but maybe doesn’t quite fit your style? Don’t let it sit around unappreciated, bring it to Kiran of Kiran’s Kustom Jewelry and let her turn your gemstone into something invaluable and precious to you!
