This proverb compares two kinds of wealth: one that is precious but unique and rare (a golden gem), and one that is more accessible and recurrent (ten thalers). The underlying message is that although precious but rare possessions (like a golden gem) may have significant intrinsic value, consistently accumulated wealth (ten thalers) can be more practical and beneficial in the long run. It highlights the importance of gradually building wealth rather than focusing solely on rare and valuable possessions. In English, an equivalent proverb would be: “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”