The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word ROSE-CUT
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
R
O
S
E
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C
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T
More clues leading to the result ROSE-CUT
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Like some gems" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case like some gems = rose-cut.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ROSE-CUT mean?
ROSE-CUT adjective- Cut flat on the reverse, and with a convex face formed of triangular facets in rows; said of diamonds and other precious stones.