7103.10.20.00 - Unworked

This HTS category, 7103.10.20.00, specifically addresses unworked precious or semi-precious stones. This designation applies to stones that have undergone minimal processing and are presented in their natural state or have been subjected to very basic shaping. Examples include rough gemstones directly from the mine, stones that have been merely cleaved to reveal their internal structure, or those that have been roughly sawn to remove excess material without achieving a polished facet or specific shape for mounting. The key characteristic is the absence of further refinement beyond basic preparation for transport or initial examination.

It is important to distinguish this category from its sibling, 7103.10.40.00, which covers "Other" unworked or simply sawn or roughly shaped stones. While both fall under the broader heading of unworked stones, the specific code 7103.10.20.00 implies a more foundational level of processing, often reflecting the stone's state immediately after extraction or initial sizing. The "Other" category may encompass slightly more advanced preliminary shaping or grading that does not yet constitute working in the sense of preparing for jewelry or ornamental use.

As this is a leaf node, there are no further subcategories within 7103.10.20.00. Classification at this level hinges on the degree of physical manipulation. If a stone has been cut, polished, faceted, or otherwise shaped to enhance its visual appeal or prepare it for setting, it would be classified under a different HTS subheading, likely within 7103.90, which pertains to worked stones. The focus here is strictly on the raw or minimally prepared state of the gemstone.