Semi-precious stones

The semi-precious stonesnow more properly known as fine stonesThe term "gemstones" refers to all the gems used in jewellery that are not diamonds, rubies, sapphires or emeralds. Rich in colour, variety and properties, they play an essential role in the creation of personalised jewelleryrefined or fanciful. Their diversity allows for an infinite range of designs, from the most sober to the most exuberant.

In this detailed glossary entry, we discover everything that makes semi-precious stones so rich and unique in the world of jewellery, with a particular focus on their use in the collections of SMV Thailand.

 

 

What is a semi-precious stone?

A more accurate definition: fine stone

The term semi-precious stone For a long time, the term "gem" was used to distinguish certain gems from others. precious stonesThe latter have historically included diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds. Since 2002, French legislation has required the use of the term "fine stone for all other natural gems used in jewellery

Official source: INSTITUT NATIONAL DE GEMMOLOGIE.

This change is explained by the desire to promote these stones, which are often just as rare and aesthetically pleasing as their "precious" cousins.

Natural or laboratory origins

Fine stones can be of natural originextracted directly from the earth's crust, or created in the laboratoryThis second category, although recent, is gaining in popularity for its ethical aspect and visual stability. This second category, although recent, is gaining in popularity for its ethical aspect and visual stability.

Classification criteria

Semi-precious stones are appreciated for :

• their colour (natural or improved)
• their transparency or their opacity
• their hardness on the Mohs scale
• their gloss or satin finish

Each stone has its own visual and energetic identity.

Emblematic semi-precious stones in jewellery

Quartz, amethysts and citrines: must-haves

Le quartz is probably the best-known fine stone. It comes in several varieties that are widely used at SMV Thailand, such as :

• amethystrecognisable by its deep purple colour
• citrinewith golden, sun-kissed highlights
• rose quartza symbol of gentleness and love

These stones are often set in rings, earrings and streamlined necklaces.

Topaz, peridot, iolite: subtle colours

Less well known to the general public, these stones offer fine, sought-after colours:

• the blue topaz or "Swiss Blue" for a touch of the ocean
• the peridotbright green with a crystalline sheen
• l'iolitedeep blue sometimes mistaken for sapphire

Their rarity makes them prized in made-to-measure jewellery.

Ornamental stones: turquoise, labradorite and tiger's eye

Other stones are not transparent but fascinate with their unique visual appearance:

• the turquoiseoften veined, synonymous with protection
• the labradoritewith its changing reflections known as "labradorescence".
• l'tiger's eyewith hypnotic golden highlights

These stones are often used in handcrafted, ethnic or boho chic jewellery.

 

Why choose semi-precious stones?

Accessibility and richness of colour

Unlike precious stones, which are often unattainable in terms of price, semi-precious stones offer a wide range of advantages. variety of colours at more affordable prices. This affordability means greater creative freedom for designers and a wider choice for customers.

Symbolism and lithotherapy

Each stone carries a strong symbolism. Amethyst soothes, garnet energises and turquoise protects. These beliefs stem from lithotherapy strengthen the emotional attachment to jewellery.

An ethical and responsible choice

Many semi-precious stones are now sourced responsibly or from laboratories. SMV Thailand, in particular, offers natural and laboratory gemstonesoffering more ethical alternatives without compromising on quality.

 

 

FAQ : Semi-precious stones

What is the difference between precious and semi-precious stones?

The term "semi-precious" is no longer officially recognised in France. Precious stones are limited to four gems (diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald), all the others are called "fine stones".

Can semi-precious stones be used in an engagement ring?

Absolutely. Many brands are opting for amethyst, morganite or garnet to create original, personalised rings.

Do semi-precious stones have energetic properties?

In the lithotherapy tradition, each stone is associated with a virtue: soothing, energising, grounding, love... Although not scientifically validated, these beliefs influence the choice of clients.

What is the hardest semi-precious stone?

Topaz scores 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest of the gemstones. It is well suited to everyday jewellery.

Does SMV Thailand offer jewellery with semi-precious stones?

Yes, our catalogue includes a wide selection of jewellery with natural or laboratory-grown gemstones.

Sources :

• INSTITUT NATIONAL DE GEMMOLOGIE : https://www.ingemmologie.com/
• Gemological Institute of America (GIA) : https://www.gia.edu/