French Conversation · Level 8
90 words
French word
gemme
Pronunciation
IPA/ʒɛm/
Meaning
- feminine noungem
Example
Il a acheté une gemme.
He bought a gem.
More examples
Sa gemme est sertie sur une bague ancienne.
His gem is set in an old ring.
Core concept
A small precious mineral displayed or worn because its surface catches light and its color stands out.
Similar words
pierre précieuse: A valuable natural stone used for adornment.
bijou: A small piece of jewelry worn as decoration.
diamant: A transparent gemstone known for exceptional hardness and brilliance.
joyau: A particularly beautiful or valuable gemstone or piece of jewelry.
Definition in French
Minéral ou matériau précieux, naturel ou taillé, apprécié pour son éclat, sa couleur ou sa rareté et employé comme ornement.
Word origin
The French noun gemme derives from Latin gemma through the historical development of French, while English gem comes from the same Latin source.
Usage tips
- Gemme is more specialized or literary than everyday pierre précieuse, while bijou usually means the finished piece of jewelry rather than the stone itself.