# Gem

**Gems** are purchasable units within the Generos protocol, designed to be gifted among participants to facilitate and record acts of generosity. These digital tokens are represented by seven tiers: Ruby, Citrine, Topaz, Emerald, Aquamarine, Tanzanite, and Amethyst, each corresponding to different contribution amounts.

When a Gem is gifted, it is added to the recipient's Vault, either through direct transfer or indirectly via the Vault Algorithm. This mechanism ensures every act of giving is recorded on-chain and becomes part of the regenerative cycle. The seven tiers establish a graduated structure for participation, allowing contributors to match their gift size to their intent.

Gems function as the fundamental unit of economic participation in Generos. Each gift creates multiple layers of value: it fills Vaults toward cycling, it establishes or strengthens Vault Connections, and 80% of each Gem's purchase price is transferred to the Redemption Treasury as USDC, directly backing Gencoin's value. When purchased and gifted, Gems translate generosity into durable economic power for both giver and receiver.