General:
* As precious as gold: This is a classic simile, emphasizing the high monetary and symbolic value of gold.
* As valuable as diamonds: Similar to gold, diamonds are prized for their rarity and beauty.
* As precious as a pearl: Pearls represent elegance, rarity, and purity.
* As important as a breath of fresh air: This simile emphasizes the vital and refreshing quality of something valuable.
* As irreplaceable as a lost loved one: This emphasizes the unique and unreplaceable nature of something valuable.
* As cherished as a childhood memory: Highlighting the sentimental and enduring value of something.
* As rare as a unicorn: This emphasizes the scarcity and uniqueness of the valuable item.
* As priceless as a work of art: This emphasizes the intrinsic worth and beauty of something unique and irreplaceable.
Specific examples:
* Her laughter was as precious as a songbird's trill.
* The old family recipe was as valuable as a secret treasure.
* His time with his family was as precious as a drop of water in the desert.
* The ancient artifact was as irreplaceable as a lost star.
* The knowledge she gained from her mentor was as valuable as a key to a hidden world.
Remember: The most effective simile will depend on the specific context and the type of value being described.