Question

Which choice shows the proper way to join two independent clauses with a semicolon?

My birthstone is a ruby; not a diamond.
Michelle’s birthstone is a diamond; but Debra’s is an opal.
Diamonds are popular; My birthstone is a ruby.
Michelle’s birthstone is a diamond; Debra’s is an opal.

Answer 1

Michelle's birthstone is a diamond; Debra's is an opal

Is correct I believe

Answer 2

D Michelle’s birthstone is a diamond; Debra’s is an opal.

Step-by-step explanation:

Semicolons serve to link two independent clauses (clauses expressing complete thoughts on their own) with closely related ideas that are not joined by a conjunction such as but, and or, nor, for, yet, or so.

Option D is the correct answer because the clauses Michelle’s birthstone is a diamond; Debra’s is an opal are two independent clauses whose ideas are closely related to each other and that are not joined by a coordinating conjunction.