Precious Gemstones

The four main gemstones, often referred to as the "precious gemstones," are:

1. Diamond

   • Renowned for its brilliance, durability, and use as a symbol of love, particularly in engagement rings.
   • Composed of pure carbon, diamonds are the hardest natural material on Earth.

2. Ruby

   • Valued for its vibrant red color, caused by traces of chromium.
   • Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum and are associated with passion and vitality.

3. Sapphire

   • Best known for its deep blue hues, though it comes in nearly every color except red (which would classify it as a ruby).
   • Also a variety of corundum, sapphires symbolize wisdom, loyalty, and nobility.

4. Emerald

   • Treasured for its lush green color, which is due to the presence of chromium and vanadium.
   • Emeralds belong to the beryl mineral family and are associated with growth, renewal, and prosperity.

These stones have been prized for centuries for their rarity, beauty, and cultural significance, distinguishing them from "semi-precious" gemstones.