How to say "gem" in Japanese

• 宝石ほうせきJLPT N3approx.Common
  nounThe word for a gem as a physical object: a precious stone such as a diamond or ruby. This is what to use when 'gem' refers to the stone itself.
  彼かれは鍵かぎをかけて宝石ほうせきを金庫きんこにしまいこんだ。↗

  He locked up his jewels in the safe.
• 珠玉しゅぎょくCommon
  nounIt denotes jewels and gems — literally, pearls and jewels — and is also used figuratively of things as exquisite and precious as a jewel.
• 逸品いっぴんCommon
  nounFor 'gem' meaning an outstanding item rather than a stone: an excellent, rare piece that stands out — the 'masterpiece' or 'fine item' sense of the English word.
  これらの花はなは彼女かのじょの庭にわで咲さいた逸品いっぴんである。↗

  These flowers are the choice of her garden.

Use 宝石 for a gemstone as a physical object, 珠玉 for jewels and gems themselves or, figuratively, things as precious as a jewel, and 逸品 when 'gem' means an outstanding item or masterpiece rather than a stone.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• 宝石ほうせきgem
• 珠玉しゅぎょくjewel
• 逸品いっぴんexcellent article
• ジェムgem
• ビジューgem
• 宝玉ほうぎょくjewel
• 貴石きせきprecious stone
• 玉たまgem