Gemstone

A gemstone is a fine, precious or ornamental stone. Substances of organic origin such as coral, amber and pearls are assimilated to gems. Some substances such as wood, bone, glass are associated with gems when used as adornment in jewellery, for example: ivory, jet, moldavite or gold nugget.

To earn the designation of gem, the material must be natural, beautiful, especially in colour, not easily altered, and strong enough to survive constant use or handling without scratching or damage.