precious stone

American  

noun

1. a gem distinguished for its beauty and rarity, used in jewelry.

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precious stone British  

noun

1. any of certain rare minerals, such as diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, or opal, that are highly valued as gemstones

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Etymology

Origin of precious stone

Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300

Example Sentences

The addition of a single precious stone could have upped the price to $1,600, said Jae Choi, nephew of the owner, a Korean immigrant who goes by Mr. Bling.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 8, 2024

An epaulette which includes a precious stone known as the Dresden White Diamond is still missing.

From BBC • Dec. 17, 2022

The book’s theme plays off the author’s name: “Ruby” is a precious stone, and “Bridges” are meant to bring people together.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 5, 2022

So a precious stone from Persia was named "Turkey stone," and the French version of that name, "pierre turquoise," gave us the word "turquoise."

From Salon • Nov. 25, 2021

“Allow me to dress! I cannot look on this precious stone in my pajamas.”

From "The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge" by M.T. Anderson and Eugene Yelchin