Translation guide
In Japanese, the general term for gemstone is 宝石 (ほうせき). This covers precious and semi-precious stones used in jewelry. There are also specific words for raw vs. cut stones, and some set phrases.
The learner wants to refer to a gemstone in general, as in jewelry or collections.
The most common and general word for 'gemstone' or 'jewel'. It can refer to both precious and semi-precious stones, usually cut or polished.
彼女は宝石のついた指輪をしている。
She is wearing a ring with a gemstone.
この宝石はとても高価だ。
This gemstone is very expensive.
The learner wants to emphasize that the stone is in its natural, unprocessed state, perhaps for collecting or geological contexts.
Refers to a gemstone in its raw, uncut, or unpolished state. Often used for mineral specimens or before cutting.
彼は原石を集めるのが趣味だ。
His hobby is collecting raw gemstones.
Means 'mineral'. In geological or scientific contexts, it can refer to gemstones as minerals. Not typically used for jewelry.
The learner wants to name a particular gemstone variety.
Japanese has specific loanwords or native names for most gemstones. For example, ダイヤモンド (diamond), ルビー (ruby), サファイア (sapphire), エメラルド (emerald). These are commonly used.
彼女の婚約指輪にはダイヤモンドがついている。
Her engagement ring has a diamond.
The learner wants a more elegant or figurative term for gemstones, perhaps in writing or titles.
A literary or formal term for a precious gem or jewel. Often used in titles or poetic descriptions.
王冠には多くの宝玉がちりばめられていた。
The crown was studded with many precious gems.
宝石 (ほうせき) is the general term for a gemstone, usually implying it has been cut or polished for use in jewelry. 原石 (げんせき) specifically means a raw, uncut gemstone, often in its natural crystal form. If you're talking about a ring or necklace, use 宝石. If you're talking about a rock collection, 原石 is better.
この鉱物は宝石として使われる。
This mineral is used as a gemstone.