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Gems Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gems

[dʒɛmz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

precious stones

Gems are valuable minerals or stones that are often used in jewelry for their beauty and rarity. They can be found in a variety of colors and shapes, and are typically cut and polished to enhance their appearance. Some of the most popular gems include diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires.

Synonyms

gemstones, jewels, precious stones.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a necklace adorned with sparkling gems.
  • The crown was studded with precious gems.
  • The museum displayed a collection of rare gems.
Context #2 | Noun

anything prized for its beauty or value

In a more general sense, gems can refer to anything that is highly prized for its beauty or value. This could include works of art, literature, or even people who are considered exceptional or outstanding.

Synonyms

hidden gem, prized possession, treasure.

Examples of usage

  • His latest novel is a literary gem.
  • The old painting turned out to be a hidden gem.
  • She is a real gem of a person.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Different gems are associated with different months; for example, ruby is the birthstone for July, symbolizing passion.
  • Many cultures believed gems could bring prosperity or ward off evil spirits, influencing their use in religious artifacts.
  • In ancient Egypt, turquoise was highly revered and often used in burial masks and jewelry to ensure safe passage to the afterlife.

Science

  • Gems are formed through natural processes involving heat and pressure underground, often taking millions of years to form.
  • The hardness of a gem is measured using the Mohs scale, with diamonds being the hardest at 10, making them very durable.
  • Many gems originate from mineral sources, with chemical compositions determining their colors and structures.

Economics

  • The diamond industry alone is a multi-billion dollar sector, influencing global economies and trade.
  • Synthetic gems, created in labs, are becoming increasingly popular due to their affordability and ethical implications.
  • Gem trading has been a key part of various economies and cultures, with some gemstones historically being used as currency.

Art and Literature

  • Throughout literature, gems often symbolize wealth and beauty, showcasing characters' status or desires.
  • In art, gems have been represented in jewelry design and paintings, signifying love, power, or connections to the divine.
  • The famous children's book 'The Little Prince' highlights the beauty and significance of a single jewel, representing inner value.

Origin of 'gems'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'gem' comes from the Old French 'gemme', which means 'precious stone'.
  • Historically, it traces back to the Latin term 'gemma', meaning 'bud' or 'jewel', reflecting the beauty of new life.
  • In many cultures, gems were considered to have magical properties, linking them with good luck or protection.

The word 'gems' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'gemme' and the Latin word 'gemma', both meaning 'bud' or 'jewel'. Gems have been prized for their beauty and rarity throughout history, with civilizations using them for adornment and symbolism. From ancient times to the present day, gems continue to hold a special place in human culture and society.

See also: gem, Gemini, gemstone.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,906, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.