Gem Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gem
[dสษm ]
Definitions
precious stone
A gem is a precious or semiprecious stone that is valued for its beauty and rarity. Gems are often used in jewelry to add beauty and elegance to the piece. Some popular gems include diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires.
Synonyms
gemstone, jewel, precious stone.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gem |
Typically refers to a high-quality, beautiful stone, often used to describe something outstanding or exceptional.
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| jewel |
Refers to a precious stone that is already set, typically in a piece of jewelry, such as rings, necklaces, or crowns.
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| precious stone |
A formal or literary term for a rare and valuable stone, often used in contexts that emphasize value and rarity.
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| gemstone |
A broad term used to describe any mineral or rock that has been cut and polished for use in jewelry or decoration. More technical than 'gem'.
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Examples of usage
- She wore a stunning necklace adorned with precious gems.
- The crown was adorned with sparkling gems of various colors.
excellent or outstanding person or thing
In a figurative sense, a gem can also refer to a person or thing that is considered excellent, outstanding, or valuable. It is often used to describe something that is highly prized or admired.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gem |
Use this word to describe a precious stone or something of high value, including a person or object you hold in very high regard.
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| treasure |
This word often refers to something very valuable, usually associated with riches or a cherished possession. It can also be used to describe someone dearly loved or a significant personal value.
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| jewel |
This term specifically refers to a cut and polished precious stone used in jewelry. It can also metaphorically describe something or someone that is of great value.
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| prize |
Typically refers to something awarded to someone as a reward for victory or an achievement. It can also figuratively describe something of great value.
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Examples of usage
- She's a real gem, always willing to help others.
- The book turned out to be a hidden gem, full of valuable information.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Ancient Egyptians used gems in their jewelry and tombs, believing they had magical properties.
- The Hope Diamond, one of the most famous gems, has a history filled with tales of misfortune and intrigue.
Science
- Gems are graded based on the four Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight, which determine their value and beauty.
- Many gems, such as diamonds, form under extreme heat and pressure deep within the Earth's mantle.
Pop Culture
- In movies and stories, gems often symbolize wealth and power, like the coveted 'Heart of the Ocean' in Titanic.
- The Pokรฉmon universe features many characters named after gems, such as Onyx and Amethyst, adding to their allure.
Lore and Beliefs
- Different cultures have assigned meanings to various gems; for instance, sapphires represent wisdom and loyalty.
- Many believe wearing certain gems can bring good luck or good health, highlighting their historical and cultural significance.
Origin of 'gem'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'gem' comes from the Latin 'gemma', meaning 'bud' or 'jewel', showing its value across cultures.
- In Middle English, it was used to describe any precious object or stone, reflecting its historical significance.
The word "gem" originated from the Latin word "gemma," which means precious stone or bud. Throughout history, gems have been highly valued for their beauty and rarity, often associated with wealth, power, and prestige. Gems have been used for adornment, currency, and even for their perceived healing properties in various cultures around the world.