Originally, of stones or metal: †precious (obsolete); (also) †not destroyed by fire (obsolete). Later, of a metal such as gold, silver, or…

Of a precious or semi-precious stone: having qualities perceived as feminine, esp. paleness of colour. Cf. male, adj. 3a. Now historical.

Designating precious stones on account of depth or brilliance of colour; also designating other stones, with reference to hardness or other valued…

Of a pearl or other precious stone, originally one coming from the East: of superior value and brilliancy, lustrous, precious. Also figurative. Now…

Cut with care or precision; (of stone) delicately chiselled.

of the old (also new) rock: (of a precious stone) of the highest (least) authenticity and value. Now only in extended use.

With preceding qualifying word. Of a jewel: having a grade or water (water, n. 28) of a specified kind. Cf. pure-watered, adj.1

Of a precious stone: inferior in value and brilliance. Cf. oriental, adj. 4.

(of stones) that may be cut and polished but are not of sufficient value to rank as gems.