Are jewels and gems the same thing?

No, jewels and gems aren't the same thing exactly. Although many people use the words interchangeably, they actually have different meanings. A gem is a precious stone in its raw state before being worked, while a jewel is the term for a gem that has undergone shaping and polishing to sell on its own or be incorporated into a piece of jewelry. Explore a large selection of jewelry on 1stDibs.