Jewels and Gemstones
Gemstones are normally thought of as being in an unpolished state, but not always. The word Jewel, on the other hand most often refers to a piece of jewelry that has been set. In other words, a ring, pendant, earring and so forth. But sometimes these words are used interchangeably. I don’t worry a lot about the nomenclature of things. Plain old easily understood English is the thing for me.
But in some circles, you might have to be very careful about calling something a gemstone or a jewel.
My favorite place to view gemstones in their natural state? The Smithsonian in Washington D.C., of course. Have you ever been there? It is truly a jewelry/gemstone lover’s dream!