Definition & Meaning of "jewel"

What is a "jewel"?

A jewel is a precious or semi-precious stone that is often used to make jewelry. Precious jewels include diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, while semi-precious jewels include amethysts, garnets, and turquoise. Jewels can also include pearls, which are organic gems produced by certain mollusks. They are valued for their beauty, rarity, and durability, and have been used as currency, adornments, and talismans for thousands of years. Some cultures believe that jewels have healing properties and can bring good fortune, and certain jewels are associated with specific meanings or symbolism. Overall, jewels are highly valued for their aesthetic and symbolic qualities and are often passed down as family heirlooms or given as gifts to mark special occasions.