Gemstones Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gemstones
[หdสษmหstoสnz ]
Definition
precious stones
Gemstones are precious or semi-precious stones that are used in jewelry. They are valued for their beauty, rarity, and durability. Gemstones come in a wide variety of colors and can be either natural or synthetic.
Synonyms
gems, jewels, precious stones.
Examples of usage
- Diamonds, rubies, and emeralds are popular gemstones used in high-end jewelry.
- She wore a necklace adorned with various gemstones.
- The value of gemstones can vary greatly depending on their quality and size.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Certain gemstones are associated with birth months, like emerald for May and sapphire for September, often used in birthstone jewelry.
- In many cultures, gemstones are believed to hold special powers; for instance, the amethyst is thought to promote calmness and clarity.
Historical Uses
- Throughout history, gemstones have been used as symbols of wealth and power, often adorning crowns and royal regalia.
- Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, believed that certain stones could protect them in the afterlife, leading to their burial with these gems.
Scientific Aspects
- Gemstones are categorized based on their mineral composition, with diamonds being carbon and rubies being a form of corundum.
- The hardness of gemstones is measured on the Mohs scale, with diamonds being the hardest known natural material.
Pop Culture
- In movies and stories, gemstones often play a role in quests for power or fortune, like the 'Heart of the Ocean' in Titanic.
- Many popular video games feature gemstones as collectible items or crucial elements needed to upgrade characters or magic.
Origin of 'gemstones'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'gemstone' comes from the Latin word 'gemma', meaning 'bud, jewel, or precious stone'.
- In Middle English, the term 'gem' was used to describe any precious stone, highlighting their value in society.
The word 'gemstone' originated from the Latin word 'gemma', which means 'bud' or 'gem'. Gemstones have been prized for thousands of years for their beauty and perceived mystical properties. Ancient civilizations believed that gemstones had healing powers and could bring good luck. Gemstones have been used in jewelry, art, and religious ceremonies throughout history.