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Gemstones & Semiprecious Stones

A world of quality stone beads for your jewelry


Sparkling diamonds, stunning rubies, raw amethysts, majestic moonstones, classic stone beads or raw lava. The list is long and we could go on and on. 

At Smyks we have a huge selection of beads and other jewelry materials in different gemstones and semi-precious stones. Semi-precious stones are natural stones that are dug up all over the world in caves, rocks and deep under the earth's surface. Each stone has its unique details and no two opals are identical.

Just like the individual uniqueness of the stones, we also know that you are looking for the stones in many different colors, shapes, sizes and treatments. That's why we have both small polished semi-precious stones for earrings and bracelets and large rough stones for larger pendants, brooches and necklaces.

Regardless of style and preferences in color, shape and texture, we are confident when we say that we have the gemstones and beads for your upcoming DIY jewelry.

Browse through our vast selection of gemstones for your DIY jewelry project. These gemstones and semiprecious stone beads can be used for all sorts of jewelry with pearl wire. When you purchase gemstones at Smyks.com, you will receive exquisite hand sorted stones and beads.

We try to deliver strung beads as often as possible. This is the case when the ordered amount of stones reaches or exceeds the amount needed for a strand and the product is available strung. For example: 6 bags containing 6pcs 10mm beads = 1 strand, or 5 bags containing 6pcs 12mm beads = 1 strand. 
When buying a 16" inch (38-39 cm) strand of beads instead of smaller portions you will roughly save about 10-15% on the price.
 

4mm bead strand = approx. 95 beads
6mm bead strand = approx. 64 beads
8mm bead strand = approx. 48 beads
10mm bead strand = approx. 39 beads
12mm bead strand = 33 beads                
14mm bead strand = 28 beads
16mm bead strand = 22 beads
 

The Science of Gemstones

Exploring the science of gemstones and precious stones sheds light on their origins, chemical composition, and crystal structure, which define their physical properties.

Gemstones is a collective term for all stones used in jewelry. Precious stones, on the other hand, traditionally refer to genuine stones like diamonds, rubies, sapphires, topazes, and emeralds. "But what are semi-precious stones, then?" you might ask. Semi-precious stones is an outdated term for gemstones that were not previously deemed worthy of the "precious" category. The term is no longer used by international jeweler organizations but is still commonly known.

Many associate knowledge about gemstones with their symbolic meanings and the chakras they are said to be connected with. For some, this is considered a science of its own. It is believed that each stone holds specific energies, powers, and symbolic meanings, especially in astrology and individual zodiac signs. In fact, understanding the holistic properties of stones is a universe of its own, which can be fascinating to explore.

If you're eager to learn more about gemstones related to your zodiac sign, we’ve created this blog post showcasing various gemstones for each zodiac sign. By incorporating your birthstones into jewelry, you can always carry them with you.

Our range of gemstones and semi-precious stones includes:

  • Opal
  • Ruby
  • Onyx
  • Magnesite
  • Chalcedony
  • Carnelian
  • Crystal
  • Aquamarine
  • Agate
  • Rose Quartz
  • Amethyst

… And many more beautiful stones and pearls in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. Each has its own category above, listed alphabetically.

Beautiful Gemstones for Jewelry Making

We offer stone beads and semi-precious stones for jewelry making, suitable for most types of jewelry—whether necklaces, earrings, or bracelets. For necklaces, we recommend beading wire, and for earrings, headpins are typically used. See our guides for instructions.

Where possible, we deliver beads on full strands if the number ordered meets or exceeds the strand count. Beads delivered on strands (cotton or nylon) are always recommended to be restrung onto beading wire or silk thread before use. Visit our jewelry blog and video section for tips and guidance.

Standard strand length (39 cm / 16 inches) corresponds to approximately:

  • 4 mm strand = ~95 beads
  • 6 mm strand = ~64 beads
  • 8 mm strand = ~48 beads
  • 10 mm strand = ~39 beads
  • 12 mm strand = ~33 beads
  • 14 mm strand = ~28 beads
  • 16 mm strand = ~22 beads

What Is the Difference Between Precious and Semi-Precious Stones?

Traditionally, stones were categorized as "precious" or "semi-precious" based on their rarity, hardness, and value. Precious stones were rare, expensive, and often used in high-value jewelry, such as diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.

In contrast, stones classified as "semi-precious" were considered more common, less valuable, or not as hard as the so-called precious stones. However, the distinction has evolved, as many so-called "semi-precious stones" have proven to be rare, valuable, and highly sought after.

Today, many experts and industry professionals avoid the term "semi-precious stones," instead referring to them as "gemstones" without differentiation. This shift reflects the understanding that a stone's value is not solely determined by rarity or price but also by beauty, history, culture, and personal significance.