Cardinal gem

Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
The five cardinal gems. Clockwise from top: sapphire, ruby, emerald, amethyst, diamond.

Cardinal gems are gemstones which have traditionally been considered precious above all others. The classification of the cardinal gems dates back to antiquity, and was largely determined by ceremonial or religious use and rarity.[1] The term has largely fallen out of use.

The five traditional cardinal gems are:

References

  1. ^ Geary, T.F.; Whalen, D. (2008). The Illustrated Bead Bible: Terms, Tips & Techniques. Sterling Pub. p. 69. ISBN 9781402723537. Archived from the original on 2021-01-16. Retrieved 2015-07-19.