7018.10.20.00 - Imitation precious or semiprecious stones (except imitation beads thereof)

HTS code 7018.10.20.00 specifically covers imitation precious or semiprecious stones, excluding imitation beads made from these materials. These items are manufactured from glass to mimic the appearance and value of natural gemstones like diamonds, rubies, emeralds, or sapphires, but lack their inherent precious or semiprecious qualities. The key characteristic for classification under this subheading is the material (glass) and its intended purpose as an imitation of valuable stones, irrespective of whether they are cut, polished, or faceted for jewelry or decorative applications.

This category can be distinguished from its sibling, 7018.10.10.00, which is designated for imitation pearls and imitation pearl beads. While both involve imitation materials of glass, 7018.10.10.00 focuses exclusively on items resembling pearls, regardless of their drilling or temporary stringing status. In contrast, 7018.10.20.00 pertains to glass objects that imitate gemstones. The "other" category, 7018.10.50.00, would encompass any remaining glass smallwares within the scope of 7018.10 not specifically provided for under the pearl or imitation gemstone subheadings.

As a leaf node, HTS code 7018.10.20.00 does not have further subcategories. Therefore, classification within this subheading relies on accurately identifying glass articles designed to imitate precious or semiprecious stones and ensuring they are not imitation beads, as those fall under a separate classification. Practical considerations for classification include examining the material composition (glass), the intended aesthetic representation (imitation precious/semiprecious stone), and the exclusion of imitation beads.