Vääriskivideks

Vääriskivideks is a Finnish term that translates to "precious stones" or "gemstones." It refers to naturally occurring minerals that are prized for their beauty, rarity, and durability, making them suitable for use in jewelry and other decorative objects. While the term historically encompassed a select few, the modern understanding of gemstones is broader and includes a wide variety of materials.

Traditionally, the "cardinal" precious stones were considered to be diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald. These were distinguished by their exceptional hardness, brilliance, and vibrant colors, as well as their scarcity. Over time, other minerals like amethyst, topaz, aquamarine, and peridot gained popularity and are now widely recognized as precious stones, though sometimes referred to as semi-precious stones. The distinction between precious and semi-precious is largely a matter of historical tradition and market value, rather than a strict scientific classification.

The value of a gemstone is determined by several factors, often summarized by the "four Cs": carat (weight), cut (how it is shaped and faceted), color (hue, saturation, and tone), and clarity (the presence or absence of internal flaws or inclusions). Rarity, origin, and demand also play significant roles in a gemstone's price. Gemstones are found in various geological environments worldwide and are extracted through mining processes. They can be found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, as well as in alluvial deposits.