# What Are Precious Gemstones?
Precious gemstones, also referred to as precious stones or just gems, are naturally occurring stones that are composed of mineral crystals, or crystalline. More than 40 varieties of common precious gemstones, including diamonds, emeralds and rubies, exist, as well as many more uncommon and rare gemstones, including painite, serendibite and majorite.
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Types
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Precious gemstones include stones such as agate, garnet, amber, moonstone, opal, topaz, onyx, pearl and ruby. Gemstones come in a wide variety of colors, textures and properties.
Forms
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Gems can be rough or smooth. Rough gemstones are those that are still in their natural state. Smooth, or polished, gems are those that have been tumbled with water and sand to make them more rounded.
Uses
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Precious gemstones are used for creating jewelry, art and, in some cultures, for healing. Healing stones--such as amethyst, chrysocolla, hematite, jade and jasper--have been used by cultures worldwide to treat mental and physical conditions.
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