Jewelry Nomenclature Glossary Part 1

Types of Jewelry

Jewelry can be classified into various types based on different criteria such as the materials used, the intended use, and the design. Some common types of jewelry are:

Fine Jewelry: Fine jewelry refers to high-quality, luxury pieces made with precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum and often adorned with precious gemstones such as diamonds, sapphires, and rubies.

Costume Jewelry: Costume jewelry, also known as fashion jewelry, is made with non-precious materials such as glass, plastic, and base metals and is intended to complement an outfit or fashion statement.

Bridal Jewelry: Bridal jewelry is designed for brides to wear on their wedding day and includes pieces such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and tiaras.

Men's Jewelry: Men's jewelry includes pieces specifically designed for men, such as cufflinks, tie bars, and watches.

Children's Jewelry: Children's jewelry is designed for children and includes pieces such as bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.

Materials

Jewelry can be made from a wide range of materials, including precious and semi-precious stones, metals, and organic materials. Here are some of the most commonly used materials in jewelry:

Precious Metals: Precious metals include gold, silver, and platinum. Gold is the most popular metal used in jewelry and is available in a range of colors, including yellow, white, and rose. Silver is less expensive than gold and is commonly used in costume jewelry. Platinum is a rare and valuable metal that is popular for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.

Gemstones: Gemstones are a popular choice for jewelry, and there are countless types of gemstones available, including diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and more. The value and rarity of a gemstone depend on its quality, size, and color.

Organic Materials: Organic materials used in jewelry include materials such as pearls, coral, and ivory. Pearls are a popular choice for bridal jewelry and are available in a range of colors and sizes.

Non-Precious Metals: Non-precious metals used in jewelry include materials such as brass, copper, and stainless steel. These materials are commonly used in costume jewelry and can be plated with precious metals to create a more expensive look.

Jewelry Nomenclature

Jewelry nomenclature is the terminology used to describe different aspects of a piece of jewelry. Here are some of the most common terms used in jewelry nomenclature:

Setting: The setting is the part of a piece of jewelry that holds the gemstone in place. Settings can be made from various materials such as metal, and they can be designed in a variety of styles, including prong, bezel, and channel settings.

Clasp: The clasp is the mechanism that is used to fasten a piece of jewelry, such as a necklace or bracelet. Clasps can be made from various materials such as metal and can be designed in a variety of styles, including lobster and toggle clasps.

Karat (K): Karat is a unit used to measure the purity of gold. 24 karat gold is pure gold, while 18 karat gold is 75% gold and 25% other metals.

Carat: Carat is a unit used to measure the weight of a gemstone. One carat is equal to 0.2 grams, and the price of a gemstone increases exponentially with its carat weight.

Hallmark: A hallmark is a mark stamped on a piece of jewelry to indicate the metal's purity and the manufacturer's or jeweler's identity.

Cut: The cut refers to the way a gemstone has been shaped and faceted. The cut affects the gemstone's brilliance and fire, and different types of cuts include round, oval, pear, and princess cuts.

Color: The color of a gemstone can vary widely depending on the type of stone. For example, diamonds can be found in various colors, including white, yellow, pink, and blue. The color of a gemstone is one of the factors that determine its value.

Clarity: The clarity of a gemstone refers to the presence or absence of inclusions, or internal flaws, in the stone. The fewer inclusions a gemstone has, the more valuable it is.

Design: The design of a piece of jewelry refers to its overall aesthetic, including its shape, size, and style. Different types of jewelry designs include classic, modern, and vintage.

Setting Style: The setting style of a piece of jewelry refers to the way the gemstone is held in place. Different setting styles include prong, bezel, and channel settings.

Fineness: Fineness is a unit used to measure the purity of silver. Pure silver has a fineness of 999, while sterling silver has a fineness of 925.

Alloy: An alloy is a mixture of two or more metals. In jewelry, alloys are often used to make metals more durable and resistant to corrosion. For example, 14-karat gold is an alloy of 58.5% gold and

Hallmark: A hallmark is a mark stamped on a piece of jewelry to indicate the metal's purity and the manufacturer's or jeweler's identity.

Enamel: Enamel is a type of decorative coating that is often applied to jewelry. It is made from powdered glass and is melted onto the surface of the metal to create a smooth, colorful finish.

Filigree: Filigree is a decorative technique in which thin wires or threads of metal are twisted and soldered together to create intricate patterns.

Casting: Casting is a method of creating jewelry by pouring molten metal into a mold. This process is often used to create complex or intricate designs.

Soldering: Soldering is a technique used to join two or more pieces of metal together using a metal alloy called solder. This process is often used in jewelry making to attach components, such as clasps or settings, to the main piece of jewelry.

Beading: Beading is a technique used to create jewelry using small beads. Beads can be made from various materials, including glass, wood, and gemstones.

Wirework: Wirework is a technique used to create jewelry using thin wires of metal. The wires are twisted and shaped to create intricate designs and patterns.

Lapidary: Lapidary is the art of cutting, shaping, and polishing gemstones. It requires a high level of skill and precision and is often used in jewelry making to create custom-cut gemstones.

Repousse: Repousse is a technique used to create a raised design on a piece of metal by hammering it from the back. This process is often used in jewelry making to create detailed designs and patterns.

Types of Jewelry Items

Earrings: Earrings are pieces of jewelry that are worn on the ear. They can be made of various materials, including gold, silver, and gemstones.

Necklace: Necklaces are pieces of jewelry that are worn around the neck. They can be made of various materials, including pearls, beads, and gemstones.

Bracelet: Bracelets are pieces of jewelry that are worn on the wrist. They can be made of various materials, including metals, leather, and gemstones.

Ring: Rings are pieces of jewelry that are worn on the finger. They can be made of various materials, including gold, silver, and gemstones.

Design and Style:

Art Deco: Art Deco is a style of design that originated in the 1920s and 1930s. It is characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, and streamlined forms.

Retro: Retro refers to a style of design that originated in the 1940s and 1950s. It is characterized by curves, bold colors, and feminine forms.

Minimalist: Minimalist refers to a style of design that is characterized by simplicity and restraint. Minimalist jewelry is often sleek and understated, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation.

Vintage: Vintage refers to jewelry that is at least 20 years old. Vintage jewelry can be from any era, and it is often highly valued for its uniqueness and historical significance.

Contemporary: Contemporary jewelry refers to jewelry that is currently being designed and produced. It often incorporates new materials and techniques and is inspired by current trends and styles.

Tools and Equipment:

Pliers: Pliers are a tool used in jewelry-making to bend and shape wire and metal.

Files: Files are used to smooth and shape metal in jewelry-making.

Soldering torch: A soldering torch is used to heat and melt metal when soldering pieces of jewelry together.

Mandrel: A mandrel is a tool used to shape and size rings.