What are the stones in the specifications of the hours?

Did you know that in the characteristics of any watch there is a graph - the number of stones? Why are they needed in the clockwork?

Stones are the bearings of the clock mechanism. Robust and with a very low friction coefficient, they are ideally suited for supporting axles.

Gems - diamonds, sapphires, and rubies - began to be used in watchmaking at the beginning of the 18th century, but at the beginning of the 20th century, the technology for the production of synthetic rubies was discovered, making it possible to significantly reduce the cost of production.

The stones themselves were of some value, and therefore an indication of their number had a boastful meaning. But now, when stones are made from artificially grown leucosapphire, information about the number of stones is simply a tribute to tradition.

True, despite the development of technology, some manufacturers still happen to install natural diamonds and rubies in exclusive models.