Series: A Search for Precious Stones

A gemstone or gem (also called a precious or semi-precious stone) is a piece of attractive mineral, which—when cut and polished—is used to make jewelry or other adornments. However certain rocks, and organic materials are not minerals, but are still used for jewelry, and are therefore often considered to be gemstones as well. Most gemstones are hard, but some soft minerals are used in jewelry because of their lustre or other physical properties that have aesthetic value. Rarity is another characteristic that lends value to a gemstone.

Full SpecialRelated Series

The Untouched Imperial Tomb

Two magnificent tombs, the Qianling Mausoleum of Tang emperor Wu Zetian, and Maoling Mausoleum of Han emperor Wudi, both to tens of thousands of workers more than half century to build, and both up lead to be filled with untold riches.

Uncovering the Mystery of the Stone Dragons

In September 2002, according to the expert’s conclusion, a group of ancient stone dragons were unearthed from the Sleeping Dragon Slope in Jiangyao Village of Handan Cicy in Hebei Province, China.

Lasting Memories - The History of Stone-working

Right back in the earliest days of human civilization, stone was vital to our ancient ancestors, since they made their tools and weapons from it. This was true in China, just as it was in the rest of the world.

Chinese Historical Stories

During the Warring States period, from 475 to 221 BC, China was in a period of turmoil following the collapse of the Zhou dynasty.