gemstone

noun

gem·​stone ˈjem-ˌstōn How to pronounce gemstone (audio)
Synonyms of gemstonenext
: a mineral or petrified material that when cut and polished can be used in jewelry

Examples of gemstone in a Sentence

traditionally, the gemstone for someone born in May is an emerald
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Mamdani did not specify in his comments where the diamond should be returned to, as multiple countries, including India, have expressed a claim to the gemstone. Doha Madani, NBC news, 30 Apr. 2026 That doesn’t mean Mars is littered with glittering gemstones. Ryan Brennan april 27, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Apr. 2026 Originating from ancient traditions, these gemstones were believed to have special significance, with each one associated with a particular month and linked to symbolism, such as protection, clarity, love, and renewal. Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 26 Apr. 2026 As part of the royal collection, the British crown jewels — which consist of over 100 objects and more than 23,000 gemstones — are priceless and have immense cultural, historical and symbolic value. Alex Gurley, PEOPLE, 26 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gemstone

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gemstone was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gemstone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gemstone. Accessed 5 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

gemstone

noun
gem·​stone ˈjem-ˌstōn How to pronounce gemstone (audio)
: a mineral that when cut and polished can be used in jewelry

More from Merriam-Webster on gemstone

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster