Diamonds, pearls and precious gems dazzle in the largest gold market in Arabia.

BBC: A perfect day in Dubai

But then, the reigning nizam had an entire vast room filled with precious gems, enough pearls to swamp a swimming pool, and truckloads of gold.

FORBES: Photograph: Andre Fanthome (RAAS)

He trains video cameras on his artisans to keep those precious metals and gems from walking out the door.

FORBES: Crafty

Later, coiners used scales to assay the purity of precious metals and gems.

FORBES: No. 15: The Scale

Any material can be affixed onto these rotatable segments ranging from Swarovski crystals, to precious metals or gems, to almost anything imaginable.

ENGADGET: Phosphor's Reveal wristwatch uses Swarovski crystals to tell time, bedazzle you

Rare gems and precious metals, made into fabulous designs by renowned craftsmen, have often served as symbols of wealth and power.

FORBES: Boston MFA to Open New Gallery with Jewelry Exhibit

Brussels Airport is a gateway for diamonds and gold coming in and out of Antwerp, a world hub for trading in gems and precious metals.

WSJ: Multimillion Diamond Heist at Brussels Airport