7103 - Precious stones (other than diamonds) and semiprecious stones, whether or not worked or graded but not strung, mounted or set; ungraded precious stones (other than diamonds) and semiprecious stones, temporarily strung for convenience of transport:

This HTS category, 7103, encompasses a broad range of precious and semi-precious stones. It specifically covers stones that are either in their natural state, have undergone basic processing like sawing or rough shaping, or have been worked in other ways, such as cutting, polishing, or faceting. Crucially, this classification applies to these stones whether or not they are graded by quality, size, or color. Even stones temporarily strung together for ease of transport, but not permanently mounted or set, fall under this heading.

When classifying goods under 7103, it is important to distinguish them from other headings within the Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Unlike the categories in Chapter 01, which deal with live animals, or those in other sections focused on different material types, 7103 exclusively pertains to unprocessed or worked precious and semi-precious stones. Furthermore, this category specifically excludes diamonds, which are classified separately under heading 7102, and articles of jewelry or set stones, which are covered by later headings within Chapter 71.

The subcategories within 7103 serve to differentiate based on the degree of processing the stones have undergone. Heading 7103.10 is reserved for stones that are unworked or have only been sawn or roughly shaped, indicating minimal alteration from their natural form. The subsequent subdivisions, not explicitly listed here but implied by the "Otherwise worked" designation, would cover stones that have undergone more extensive manipulation, such as precise cutting, faceting, or polishing, to enhance their appearance and value.