semiprecious - definition of semiprecious - synonyms, pronunciation, spelling from Free Dictionary

Open English WordNet

Adjective (1)

used of gemstones having less commercial value than precious stones“such semiprecious stones as amethyst, garnet, jade, and tourmaline”Opposite worthlessSimilar valuable

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Webster's Dictionary (1913)

Sem′i·pre′cious (sĕm′ĭ-prĕsh′ŭs), adjective

Somewhat precious; as, semiprecious stones or metals. Used mostly of gemstones used in jewelry, such as amethyst, garnet, or iolite, which are sufficiently rare to have commercial value, but are not considered as precious, as are the diamond, emerald, and ruby.

Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913), from GCIDE 0.54 · with additions: +PJC