The biggest misconception is that semi-precious stones are of a lower category. But no! Their only difference is in hardness and prevalence.

Precious stones include natural diamonds, ruby, emerald, alexandrite, sapphire, pearl and amber.
Semi-precious stones can be transparent, colored and colorless. The most popular are amethyst, aquamarine, chrysolite, topaz, garnet, turquoise, zircon, opal.
The weight of precious stones is measured in carats, and semi-precious stones - in grams.
Each stone, like a person, is individual. The cost of a stone is determined by its individual characteristics, not by carats and name. Usually, weight, clarity, color fullness and cut are considered.
Pearls and amber are not considered in these categories, they are unique in themselves.