What is the difference between a semi-precious and a precious stone?
Question asked by: knowitall
The difference between precious and semi-precious comes down purely to human definitions that have been imposed.
There is nothing in and of itself about the nature of a stone that makes it precious or semi-precious.
Rather it is down to human desirability of an element or mineral or form or a stone that decides.
Generally, the rarer and more sought after a mineral is, the more likely it is to be defined as precious.
Desired, but more common and less valuable items may be, in contrast, semi-precious.
By: Unknown
Average rating for this answer is 4 / 5
Rate Answer
Comment or provide your answer to this question
No comments have been added to this question "What is the difference between a semi-precious and a precious stone?".
No comments have been added to this question "What is the difference between a semi-precious and a precious stone?".
Ask a New Question
Find out more about Geology
Geology Questions and Answers precious stones Questions and Answers Next question: granite,pumice,and scoria are igneous rocks. why doesn't granite have air holes like the other two?
Become a Member! It's Free >>>
Share on Facebook: 
On Twitter:
Tweet this!
Question Keywords
semi-precious precious stone difference
More Questions:How Were Sedimentary Rocks Created?
Hydrocarbon Behavior
Why Did The Continents Spread Apart?
What Is The Minimum Depth Needed For A Feature To Be Considered A Canyon?
Which Type Of Rock Is Critical For The Formation Of Geysers?