Gems
/dʒɛm/noun
Precious or semi-precious stones, especially when cut and polished.
Did you know?In ancient cultures, gems were believed to hold mystical powers, often used in talismans for protection and prosperity.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*gʲem-
“to cut or polish”
Latin
Latin
gemma
“bud, jewel, or precious stone”
Old French
Old French
gemme
“gem or precious stone”
Middle English
Middle English
gemme
“precious stone or jewel”
Modern English
English
gems
“plural of gem, referring to valuable stones.”