noun
Refers to a valuable, often cut and polished stone used in jewelry or decoration. Can also be used metaphorically for something treasured.
王冠には大きな宝玉がはめ込まれている。
A large jewel is set in the crown.
彼女は宝玉のような瞳をしている。
She has eyes like jewels.
宝石 is the more common, everyday word for gem or jewel. 宝玉 is slightly more literary or formal, often implying a single, exceptionally precious stone.
Sino-Japanese compound of 宝 (treasure) and 玉 (ball, jewel). The reading ほうぎょく follows the on'yomi of both characters.