Precious things, most genes, in a way (9)

I believe the answer is:

gemstones

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'precious things' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I don't see how they can define each other.

'most genes in a way' is the wordplay.
'in a way' indicates anagramming the letters.
'most'+'genes'='mostgenes'
'mostgenes' is an anagram of 'GEMSTONES'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for gemstones that I've seen is " Emeralds and rubies, say".)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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