semiprecious

[ sem-ee-presh-uhs, sem-ahy- ]

adjective

1. (of a stone) having commercial value as a gem but not classified as precious, as the amethyst or garnet.

semiprecious

/ ˌsɛmɪˈprɛʃəs /

adjective

1. (of certain stones) having commercial value, but less than a precious stone

Word History and Origins

Origin of semiprecious¹

First recorded in 1885–90; semi- + precious

Example Sentences

The interior is exquisite with lacelike carvings inlaid with semiprecious stones.

From Project Gutenberg

Some special varieties of feldspar are cut or polished for semiprecious stones or decorative purposes.

From Project Gutenberg

Certain transparent colored varieties of tourmaline rank high among the semiprecious stones.

From Project Gutenberg

Stones and ores, some semiprecious, have come from all parts of the world to be patterned into this bright-colored shrine.

From Project Gutenberg

They're beautiful, as you see, but they're not particularly valuable; only semiprecious.

From Project Gutenberg