Gem and diamond symbols
Jewels are among the oldest and the newest symbols.
By Ryan Jessop. Last checked .
Key takeaways
- A diamond was on the Liberty Bell.
- Gems dominate modern 'jewel' slots.
- Colour usually ranks value.
- Starburst is the best known.
In shortA diamond was one of the Liberty Bell's five symbols. Today gems are the standard symbol set for bright, simple video slots such as Starburst.
Then
Fey's machine used playing-card suits, a horseshoe and a bell; the diamond was a suit.
Now
| Symbol | Rank |
|---|---|
| BAR | Highest |
| Seven | High |
| Yellow, green, orange gems | Middle |
| Blue and purple gems | Lowest |
As commonly described; check the paytable.
Why gems work
They are easy to tell apart by colour on a small screen, which matters on a phone.
Elsewhere on the site: Volatility, From mechanical to online, Free slot machines and Arcade slot machines.
Gems as money symbols
On newer machines gems often carry cash values or multipliers: the orbs of Gates of Olympus are a jewel-like example. The symbol has moved from decoration to mechanism.
Reading a gem paytable
Warm colours usually outrank cool ones, but not always. Starburst places its purple and blue gems lowest.
Keep reading: Cluster pays slot machines, Megaways slot machines, Slot machine bankroll guide and The BAR symbol.
Next: how slot machines work, or seven slots taken apart.
Slot figures are developers' published defaults, each confirmed against two sources; the version at your casino can differ. UK land-based stake and prize limits and online rule dates were checked against Gambling Commission and licensing authority sources on 6 October 2026. History follows commonly cited accounts. Offer terms dated 5 October 2026. How we check. 18+. Free help: 0808 8020 133 or safer gambling.
Frequently asked questions
Why do slots use gems?
They read clearly and suit any theme.
Which is the best-known gem slot?
Starburst.
Was there a diamond on early machines?
Yes, as a card suit.
Do gem slots pay differently?
No.