Jewelry Glossary




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# A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z
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10K: An alloy of gold containing 41.7% pure gold by weight with the remaining composed of other metals
14K: An alloy of gold containing 58.3% pure gold by weight with the remaining composed of other metals
18K: An alloy of gold containing 75% pure gold by weight with the remaining composed of other metals
24K: The highest purity rating for gold, signifying that the metal is 99.9% or more pure gold
4C’s of Diamond: A handy shortcut for the key factors that determine a diamond's quality: cut, color, clarity and carat weight
925: A hallmark indicating the piece is sterling silver made by combining 92.5% pure silver with 7.5% of other metals
A
Abrasion: A kind of damage or wear often in the form of a scratch or bruise occurring on the surface of a gemstone
Accent Diamonds: maller diamonds that are strategically placed around a larger center stone or within the design of the jewelry to add extra sparkle and fire
Adularescence: A gemstone effect that offers a soft shimmer playing across the surface of a gemstone when light is flashed upon
Agate: A type of chalcedony quartz that can come in different colors 
AGS: The abbreviation for American Gem Society, an organization of jewelers, appraisers, suppliers and other industry members
Alexandrite: A rare and precious gemstone that is especially prized for its ability to change colors depending on the light source and angle
Alloy: A composition of different metals mixed together to create improved versions of certain materials
Alternating: A jewelry design where different stones, beads, charms or other components are used in a repeating pattern
Alternative Gemstone: Gemstones other than diamonds, sapphires or rubies. They usually offer a chance to explore a wider variety of colors, styles and price points. More information about them can be found in our unique gemstones guide.
American Gem Trade Association: A non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring ethical practices in the gemstone trade
Amethyst: A variety of quartz that is distinguished by its deep purple or violet shade
Amulet: A small piece of jewelry worn as a protective charm and believed to bring good luck and ward off evil
Anniversary Band: A special kind of ring with multiple stones set in an eternity or half eternity band, which is typically gifted to commemorate an anniversary or a milestone
Aquamarine: A variety of Beryl known for its serene blue color
Art Deco: An international visual art style that is expressed mostly by geometric shapes, symmetry and bold designs
Art Nouveau: A style of decorative art focusing on curves and nature-inspired motifs
Asscher Cut: A gemstone shape resembling the emerald cut but is more squarish with cropped corners, larger step facets and a taller crown
B
Baguette: A gemstone cut that is characterized by its rectangular form with four corners
Bail: The tiny metal loop or attachment at the top of a pendant that allows it to hang from a chain or necklace
Band: The part of the ring that goes around the finger
Bangle: A rigid bracelet that slips directly onto the wrist with a closed loop
Base Metal: Metals that are generally used as underlying structures or for more affordable options because they are more prone to tarnishing and wear compared to precious metals
Basket Setting: A secure setting where prongs hold the stone from below, offering protection and showcasing it from all angles
Beaded: Little metal pieces made from small, individual spheres strung together on the metal
Beryl: A group of minerals that encompasses some of the most popular gemstones including emerald, aquamarine and morganite
Beveled: Corners or edges of a band that are slanted inwards, creating a slope instead of a sharp corner
Bezel: A setting type where a metal rim covers the corners of the stone, making it look like it is engraved into the band
Birthstones: Gemstones that are traditionally associated with each month of the year. You can find more detailed information in our birthstone guide.
Black Rutile: Tiny, needle-like black inclusions clustered together and sometimes included within a clear quartz body
Blemish: A small scratch, pinpoint of internal cloudiness, flaw or color variation within the stone
Bling: A flashy and luxurious piece of jewelry
Blood Diamonds / Conflict Diamonds: A term used to describe diamonds that are illegally mined in areas under the control of rebel groups or warlords
Blue Sandstone: A human-made dark blue crystal with sparkling flecks that is crafted from glass, cobalt and sand quartz
Blue Topaz: A topaz variety with serene, vivid blue hues
Box Chain: A chain type where tiny box-shaped metal rims are tied together
Bracelet: A common jewelry type worn around the wrist usually in the form of a chain, band or cuff
Braided: A design element where multiple strands of metal are interwoven in a pattern that looks like a braid
Brass: A base metal that is an alloy of copper and zinc. It is generally used as underlying metal in pieces to create more affordable options.
Bridal Set / Wedding Set: The set of wedding ring and engagement ring
Brilliant Cut: A specific way of cutting and polishing a stone, most commonly diamonds, which gives the stone 58 facets to maximize its brilliance and fire
Briolette: A gemstone or bead with a distinctive faceted pear-shaped silhouette
Bronze: A versatile, dense metal made by combining copper with tin
Brushed: A specific finish applied to the surface of a metal, creating a soft, matte texture with a subtle, linear sheen
Byzantine Chain: A jewelry chain with a complex design that creates a rope-like texture
C
Carat (Ct): The universal measurement unit used to measure the weight of the diamond or some other gemstones
Casting: A jewelry-crafting technique where molten metal is poured into a mold to create a desired shape
Cathedral Setting: A ring setting type where the gemstone is elevated on arches, resembling a cathedral's architecture
Center Stone: The main gemstone in a piece of jewelry
Chain: A series of interconnected links that form a necklace or bracelet
Chain Link: A single unit that forms the interlocking segments of a necklace, bracelet, or other piece
Chalcedony: A gemstone family known for its translucent colors like pale blue, gray, or white
Channel: A groove carved within a metal band where gemstones are nestled securely side-by-side within
Charm: A small decorative and usually symbolic pendant dangling from bracelets and necklaces
Chevron: A classic geometric pattern, commonly used in rings, that resembles an inverted V shape
Choker: A necklace-like jewelry that is very short in length and wraps around the neck tightly
Citrine: A type of quartz prized for its warm, sunny glow, also known as the November birthstone
Clarity: The term referring to the absence of tiny flaws, inclusions or blemishes either within or on the surface of a diamond and other gemstones
Clasp: The essential little mechanism on a necklace, bracelet or earring that keeps it securely fastened
Classic: Always popular and trendy, never getting old-fashioned
Claw Setting: A prong setting type where claw-like pointy little metal pieces hold a gemstone in place
Cloud: A cluster of tiny white and hazy inclusions or imperfections trapped within a diamond, affecting its sparkle
Cluster: A jewelry type where many gemstones usually of different sizes and shapes are set close to each other
Cocktail Ring: A rather flashy ring design that typically has a large focal point on top, often worn on special occasions
Coin Necklace: A necklace featuring a coin or several coins as the centerpiece
Color: The visual characteristic referring to the saturation of gemstones, metals and other materials used in a piece
Comfort Fit: A feature of a band that has a rounded inner surface gliding smoothly against the finger
Conflict-Free Diamonds: Diamonds that are responsibly sourced from regions where the diamond trade does not support violence or terrorism but instead contributes positively to the local communities
Contemporary: Reflecting the trends and styles of the present, modern era
Copper: A common reddish-brown colored durable metal used frequently in metal alloys
Criss-Cross: A design where two bands, chains or other components intertwine in a crossing pattern
Crown: A popular ring setting or design that resembles a miniature crown
Crystal: A form of crystallized quartz that has a clear and glassy appearance with a very organized internal structure
Cuban Chain: A chain style featuring interlocking oval or round links
Cubic Zirconia (CZ): A human-made synthetic crystal resembling diamond but is less hard, durable and sparkly
Cuff Bracelet: A bracelet with a rigid or semi-rigid band that usually has an opening to slip on and off easily
Culet: The tiny pointed end at the bottom of a diamond, where the pavilion facets meet
Cursive: A design that incorporates flowing, interconnected lines or lettering that resemble handwriting
Curved: Pieces with a bar, band or base that bends slightly or dramatically along its length
Cushion Cut: A gemstone cut recognized by its square form softened by gently rounded corners, resembling a cushion
Custom: A piece designed and crafted specifically for someone
Cut: The arrangement of a gemstone’s facets and proportions that affects its ability to reflect and refract light
D
Dainty: A term used to define pieces that are fine, delicate and subtle because they often feature smaller stones and minimalist designs
Dangle: A piece that has a small, moving attachment hanging freely, most commonly seen in earrings and necklaces
Depth: The distance from the top of the gemstone (usually the table facet) down to the bottom, to its culet
Diameter: The width of any circular piece, such as hoops and rings, measured at its widest point
Diamond: A precious and perhaps the most popular gemstone that’s known for its clear, colorless visuals offering maximum sparkle and fire
Diamond Cut: The way the diamond is faceted and given different shapes such as round, pear and emerald
Diamond Grading: A standardized system to evaluate the four key factors of a diamond: cut, color, clarity and carat weight
Dog Tag Necklace / Tag Necklace: A personalized pendant inspired by the ID tags worn by military personnel, featuring flat, often rectangular metal tag
Dome: The outer curvature of the ring band which is a rounded shape, like half a sphere
Double Shank: A band that splits into two thinner straws as it reaches the center gemstone
Doublet: The stone made by layering one precious gemstone with another material or a gemstone of lesser value to make it sturdier and more durable
Drop Earring: Earrings that dangle just below the earlobe
E
Earrings: A jewelry type typically pierced through the earlobe
East-West: A contemporary ring design where the gemstone is positioned horizontally across the band instead of vertically
Eco-Friendly: Pieces made with the environment in mind by using recycled materials, choosing responsibly sourced gemstones and avoiding practices that harm the environment
Ethical Sourcing: The materials obtained in a way that's responsible and respects both the people involved and the environment
Emerald: A vibrant green precious gemstone that belongs to the beryl family
Emerald Cut: A gemstone shape characterized by its rectangular silhouette with elongated facets and hall of mirrors effect
Enamel: A glassy paste or powder that gives a colorful coat of paint applied to the metal
Engagement Ring: A type of ring that is traditionally given by one partner to the other when proposing marriage. For more information, visit our engagement ring guide.
Engravable: A piece that can be personalized with a special message inscribed on
Engraving: The process of creating a design or inscription on the surface of the engravable jewelry
Etching: A technique that uses some chemicals to carve a design onto the surface of the metal
Eternity Ring: A ring design featuring a continuous line of gemstones covering all the way around the band
European Cut: An older, vintage style of diamond cutting known for having larger facets, less fire but more flashes of rainbow colors
Eye-Clean: A term used to describe a gem that is free of any visible inclusions or flaws when observed with the naked eye
F
Facet: A flat, polished surface created by cutting a rough stone into specific shapes and angles
Faceted: A gemstone that has been cut into a series of flat, polished surfaces called facets
Fancy Colored: Diamonds that fall outside the expected colorless range and come in rare colors such as pink, blue or even red
Fancy Cut: A type of gemstone cut that has a different shape other than the most commonly known round or princess cuts
Fashion Necklace / Fashion Ring: A necklace or ring designed to follow current trends and styles, often incorporating bold colors or trendy accents
Figaro Chain: A chain type with repeated patterns where elongated oval links alternate with shorter, round links
Filigree: A delicate and decorative metalwork technique that creates thread-like wires soldered together to form swirling patterns, floral designs or geometric shapes
Findings: A term describing all the functional components used in jewelry construction such as clasps, hooks, pins, earring backs, etc.
Fine Jewelry: Pieces crafted with high-quality, precious materials that are meant to last long
Finish: The whole process of cutting, shaping, polishing, texturing, setting stones, assembling components of a piece and ensuring everything is securely fastened
Fire: The visuals observed in a gemstone when the light scatters and throws off rainbow colors as the gem interacts with light
Fish Hook: An earring backing type that is in the shape of a curved hook going through the ear hole
Flat Band: A ring with a straight, uncurved band on the outside rather than a domed band
Flaw: Tiny imperfections in the form of cloudy and hazy inclusions, cracks or spots that disrupt the stone's clarity
Floating: A design that is achieved by using settings that hide the prongs (metal claws holding the stones) to make the stones look like they are floating
Floral: A design that is inspired by flowers
Fluorescence: A special kind of glow some stones emit under ultraviolet (UV) light
Flush Setting: A way of setting a stone where its surface sits level with the surrounding metal
Foxtail Chain: A chain design made from tiny oval links that interlock closely, resembling the tail of a fox
G
Garnet: A gemstone family that comes in a range of colors, from deep reds to cool greens and purples
Gemologist: A scientist who analyzes and assesses the quality and properties of gemstones
Gemology: A branch of geoscience that deals with gemstones
Gemstone: The name for all precious and semi-precious minerals, crystals or stones that can be used in jewelry and come in a wide variety of colors
Genuine: A term used to state that the material is not synthetic or artificial and is exactly what it appears to be
GIA: The abbreviation for Gemological Institute of America, a recognized gemology and jewelry research institution in California
Girdle: The widest part of a cut stone, where its top and bottom sections meet
Gold: A precious metal commonly used in jewelry making and known for its rarity, malleability and warm shine
Gold Mining: The process of extracting gold from deep underground through excavation
Gold-Filled: Metal created by mechanically bonding a layer of real gold (usually 5% or more of the total weight) to a core of another metal, like brass or sterling silver
Gold-Plated: Metal created by coating a thin layer of gold over copper or brass, an affordable alternative to gold
H
Half Eternity: A ring design featuring a continuous line of gemstones positioned halfway around the band
Halfway Set: The setting where a continuous line of gemstones positioned halfway around the band
Hallmark: Tiny marking stamped on a piece of precious metal jewelry to reveal the type of precious metal used and its purity
Halo: A design where smaller gemstones encircle a larger center stone in a piece to add even more sparkle and fire to it
Hammered: A finish type where the metal is hammered all over to create little plains for a textured look
Hardness: The level of durability of a metal or a gemstone, measured by its resistance to scratching or bending
Head: The part of the jewelry, usually in a ring, that holds the gemstone
Heart Cut: A popular diamond cut in the shape of a heart
Heart Jewelry: Jewelry piece that incorporates the shape of heart in a pendant, a charm or a symbol
Heirloom: A treasured piece passed down through generations within a family
Herringbone: A jewelry chain style or pattern with a flat ribbon that folds back and forth on itself
Hexagon Cut: A gemstone cut that has been shaped to a hexagon
Hidden Halo: A setting type where the halo stones are positioned beneath the center stone and are barely visible from certain angles
Hinged Earrings: A click backing style for earrings where the earring is attached to the ear through a hinge instead of a removable backing
Hoop Earrings / Hoops: A popular earring design in the form of a circular ring
Huggies: A variation of hoop earrings that hugs the earlobe more closely and are smaller in size
Hypoallergenic: Not causing any allergic reactions such as skin irritations or itching
I
Ice Matte Finish: A finish type similar to matte brushed finish but ice matte’s texture is more dispersed and brush strokes are not as linear
IGI: The abbreviation of International Gemological Institute, a diamond and jewelry grading organization based in Antwerp, Belgium
Imperfection: Tiny internal or external flaws in the form of cloud-like inclusions, cracks or spots that disrupt the stone's clarity
Inclusion: Tiny but visible internal matters or flaws that seem trapped within a stone
Initial Necklace / Initial Bracelet: Personalized necklace or bracelet that features initials of a name or special word
Interlocking: A design where two metals are interwoven, linking into each other like puzzle pieces
Intertwined: A design where elements are woven, looped or curved together
Invisible Setting: A setting style where the gemstones are flushed closely against each other with barely visible metal pieces in between
Iridescence: A display of light that gives off rainbow colors all at once
J
J-Hoop: A semi-circular hoop earring design with a form resembling a J
K
Karat (K): The industry standard measurement unit used to measure the pure gold percentage in a jewelry piece. The higher the karat number, the more gold is in the piece.
Kimberley Process: An international initiative that serves as a global certification system to prevent conflict diamond trade
Kite Cut: A gemstone cut type resembling a kite with its four corners and a pointed tip
Knife Edge: A ring band design where the band is elevated right in the middle creating a rather sharp angle
Knot: A design where pieces of metal are soldered together which makes it look like a knot made of the metal itself
L
Lab Alexandrite: Lab created version of natural Alexandrite, which is a very precious and rare gemstone
Lab Created / Lab Grown: Any metal, gemstone or material produced in controlled laboratory settings using sophisticated technology and high end methods
Lab Diamond: A diamond produced in laboratories by creating the very same conditions under which natural diamonds are formed. For more information about the two, visit our Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds guide.
Lapidary: The whole process of creating a jewelry piece including cutting, polishing, shaping, mounting and engraving
Layering: Wearing different pieces together, usually necklaces, to create a complementary ensemble
Leakage: The occurrence where light escapes through the sides or bottom of a gemstone, resulting in reduced brilliance or sparkle
Lever Back: An earring backing type where a little hinged lever securely snaps shut behind the earlobe
Link Chain: A chain type made from a series of interconnected metal loops
Lobster Clasp: A jewelry closure type featuring a latch that snaps securely shut
Locket: A necklace design featuring a pendant that opens up and reveals a small item, like a photo or a tiny charm
Long Curved: A deep dramatic bend on jewelry pieces to add movement and dimension
Low-Profile: A ring design where the center stone is low-set on the band
Lucky Charm: A small decorative pendant believed to bring luck to the wearer, usually dangling from bracelets and necklaces
Luster: The brightness or brilliance of a gemstone that is determined by how light bounces off the surface of the stone
Luxury: Pieces crafted with high quality materials, gemstones of high value and exclusive craftsmanship
M
Marquise Cut: A gemstone shape with broad facets, elongated body and pointed ends that create a slimming effect on the fingers
Matte Brushed: A finish type made by scratching the surface of the metal by grinding, brushing or using abrasive chemicals to create a textured, non-reflective look
Melee: Clusters of small diamonds less than 1 carat, often seen accenting other gemstones in jewelry
Memorial Jewelry: Jewelry designed to keep the memory of a loved one close, often incorporating pendants or lockets that hold pictures, a lock of hair, or an engraved message
Metal: Materials, often precious and/or durable such as gold, platinum and silver, used to craft jewelry pieces
Metal Color: The appearing shade of the jewelry's metal itself
Micro-Pavé: A setting design where tiny gemstones are positioned side-by-side in a row
Micro-Prong: Very small and thin metal pieces that hold a gemstone securely in its setting
Milgrain: A design element created with tiny beads impressed into the corners of a metal to create a kind of frame around it
Mixed Metal: Pieces that combine different metals of different colors like platinum and gold, or rose gold and yellow gold
Minimalist: A design that emphasizes clean lines, simple shapes and a more understated look without being flashy
Mm: The abbreviated form of millimeter, the unit for measuring length in the metric system
Mohs Scale: A common and recognized method used to assess the hardness of a material or a gemstone based on surface resistance
Moissanite: An affordable diamond alternative that is lab created using silicon carbide. Our moissanite vs diamond guide dives into the details regarding their differences.
Monogram: A special jewelry design that combines 2-3 letters, typically initials or a short word like “mom” or “dad”
Moonstone: A variety of feldspar known for its transparent blue or white shimmer resembling moonlight glow, true to its name
Morganite: A variety of beryl that has a blushy, rosy hue
Moss Agate: A variety of chalcedony with green-colored minerals resembling moss or leaves
Mounting: The metal framework that holds a gemstone securely in place
Multi-stone: A piece that features more than a single gemstone
N
Nacre: The shimmery material that is also the main ingredient of pearls
Name Necklace / Name Bracelet: Personalized jewelry pieces that feature a name, initials or a special word of choice
Nameplate Jewelry: Personalized jewelry that feature a name, initials or a short word, usually horizontally displayed in a plain pendant, typically on a necklace or bracelet
Natural Diamond: A diamond formed deep within the Earth under natural geological conditions without any human interference and mined thereafter
Necklace: A jewelry kind worn around the neck
Nickel: A common type of metal used in jewelry and sometimes as an alloy for gold
NF: Nickel-free
O
Oiling: A treatment technique used to enhance the color and clarity of a gemstone
Opal: A unique, flashy semi-precious gemstone prized for its ability to reflect rainbow colors all at once
Opalescent: A term describing a surface, often that of a gemstone, that shows a whole range of rainbow colors, sometimes with a soft, cloudy look
Opaque: A term used to describe a material or stone that blocks all light and does not reflect it
Open Back: A gemstone setting that has a space at the bottom, which lets more light pass through the gem
Open Circle: A design where the metal forms a continuous circle but isn't completely closed but left open instead
Open Cuff: A flexible bracelet design that has a gap at the end, allowing it to slip on the wrist
Ore: A rock that contains one or more valuable minerals, including gold, silver and platinum
Organic: Pieces made from natural materials like wood, gemstones, shells or even seeds. For example, pearls are organic as they are created by living mollusks like oysters and mussels.
Orient: The rainbow-like shine or luster on the pearl's surface
Oval Cut: A gemstone cut type that is slightly more elongated than the round cut
Oxidation: A natural reaction where the metal interacts with the air, creating a darkened surface called tarnish
P
Palladium: A durable, lightweight and hypoallergenic precious metal that's naturally a bright white color
Paperclip Chain: A chain style made of interlocking oval links that resemble paperclips
Pattern: Repeating design elements used in a piece such as continual motifs or geometric shapes
Pavé: A gemstone setting where tiny gemstones are closely set together one after another
Pavilion: The lower part of a gemstone that's often hidden beneath the setting in a ring or pendant
Pear Cut: A gemstone shape resembling teardrop with a single point and rounded body
Pearl: An organic gem formed naturally inside oysters or mussels
Peek-a-boo Diamond: A diamond that's hidden from plain sight, usually set beneath the center stone in a ring or on the underside of a pendant
Pendant: A decorative charm, dangle, or plate that hangs from a necklace chain or bracelet
Peridot: An Olivine variety known for its lime green to olive green or golden hues, also known as the August birthstone
Personalized: Pieces that have been customized to hold a special meaning specifically for the wearer
Petite: Pieces that are usually minimalist in design, small in size and suitable for everyday use
Pit: A small, shallow indentation like a tiny crater on the surface of a stone
Plain: Simple, unadorned design
Platinum: A hypoallergenic precious metal known for its white shine and durability
Plot: A detailed diagram that maps out the internal characteristics of a gemstone, such as clarity and color
Polished: A smooth, shiny finish typically achieved through buffing or rubbing
Post: The small, straight metal piece of earrings going through the pierced earlobe
Pot Metal: A group of alloys, or metal mixtures, that are affordable and don't contain precious metals
Precious Gemstones: Rare gemstones that are of great value and price, traditionally referring to diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds
Precious Metals: Rare metals of high value, quality and durability
Princess Cut: A non-round gemstone shape with square silhouette and pointed corners
Promise Ring: A pre-engagement ring that is exchanged between partners as a declaration of mutual commitment
Prong: A setting type where little round or pointed pins of metal holds the stone in place
Proportion: A gemstone’s crown and pavilion angles and sizes of its facets
Push Back: An earring backing type where the post holds the earring in place using friction
Q
Quartz: A common mineral found in many igneous rocks and that can come in a whole range of colors, sometimes even with some sparkly bits inside
R
Radiant Cut: A type of gemstone cut that is rectangular in shape and looks like a combination of cushion and princess shapes
Rails: Small, smooth bars of metal that run parallel to the gemstone and creates a border around it
Raw Metal: The unfinished, unprocessed state of metal, meaning it hasn't been refined or shaped into anything yet
Recycled Gold: Gold that's been reclaimed from existing sources like unused jewelry, electronics, or industrial scrap to create new jewelry pieces
Refinishing: The process of restoring a piece of jewelry to its original shine and beauty by re-applying the finish
Refraction: The phenomena of light bending as it passes through the gemstone
Refractive Index: The measurement of how light is bent or refracted as it passes through the gemstone
Restoration: Techniques to repair damage, replace missing parts, and recapture the original beauty and functionality of the jewelry
Rhodium: A silvery white precious metal that is super reflective and resistant to tarnishing
Rhodium Plating: A special finishing coating that is applied to another metal, usually silver, as a thin layer of rhodium metal
Ring: A jewelry kind in the form of a circular band worn on a finger
Ring Band: The part or loop of the ring that is worn on a finger
Ring Size: A measurement that tells how big or small the inside circle (the diameter) of a ring is
Riviere: A short necklace featuring a string (or sometimes multiple strings) of gemstones, all of usually the same size or getting bigger in size towards the center
Rolo Chain: A chain style featuring thin, oval-shaped interlocking links
Rope Chain: A chain style featuring twisted metal links that resemble a rope
Rose Gold: The rosy colored version of gold that is obtained by the addition of copper used in the alloy
Rough Gemstone: A precious or semi-precious stone in its natural, uncut and unpolished state
Round Cut: The most iconic and popular gemstone cut known for its perfectly symmetrical rounded shape that has 58 facets
Ruby: A precious gemstone known for its deep red color, ranging from a pinkish red to a crimson
Rutilated: Golden or black wispy needle-like inclusions trapped inside of a gemstone
Rutilated Quartz: Clear quartz stone with golden or black needles of another mineral, rutile, trapped within
S
Salt-and-Pepper Diamond: A diamond with tiny specks of black and white minerals, which create a speckled effect
Sapphire: A precious gem that can come in a range of colors with the most famous one being a deep, velvety blue
Scintillation: The movements of light and shadow across the surface of a sparkly gemstone
Screw: An earring backing design where little screw-like piece threads onto the post from the back and tightening it secures the earring in place
Sedimentary: A natural substance formed from layers of particles that built up over millions of years and then crystallized into gemstones like opal
Semi-Precious: More common and accessible gemstones that come in a wider range of colors and varieties than precious gemstones, and are often more affordable
Setting: The metal framework or mechanism that holds the stone securely in place on a ring, necklace, or other piece
Shank: The band of a ring that goes around the finger
Shape: The overall outline or form of a gemstone
Shared Prong: A setting type where two neighboring gemstones share a single set of prongs, the little metal claws holding it
Shoulder: The area where the band widens and meets the setting that holds the center gemstone
Side Stones: Smaller gemstones or accent stones flanking the main, larger gemstone on either side of it
Signet Ring: A ring design featuring a flat, raised surface on the top, which can often be engraved with a family crest, monogram, date, name or a symbol of choice
Silver: A precious lightweight metal that has a cool, subtle grayish shine
Simulated Gemstone: A gemstone that is created in a laboratory to mimic the look of a precious or semi-precious gem
Snake Chain: A flexible chain made of smooth, curved metal links that fit together, a design resembling a snake's scales, hence the name
Solid Gold: Pieces crafted from genuine gold all the way through
Solitaire: A piece of jewelry that features a single gemstone as most commonly seen in engagement rings and solitaire stud earrings
Sparkle: The interaction of fire, scintillation and the overall light return from the gemstone that is reflected to the eye
Split Prong: A setting where each stone has its own four metal claw holding it unlike the shared prong where two neighboring gemstones share a single set of prongs
Split Shank: The band that separates into two towards the top where it meets the gemstone
Square Band: The band that has sharp, crisp edges that run along the entire ring where it touches the finger
Stackable: Pieces designed in a way that they can well be mixed and matched with other pieces for a personalized look
Stacking: The action of layering or matching pieces of jewelry together to create a personalized ensemble
Stainless Steel: A tough, versatile, and relatively affordable metal alloy of chromium and nickel
Stardust Finish: A textured finish applied to the metal surface that creates a subtle sandy feel like a sprinkling of little particles
Statement Jewelry: Pieces that are designed to be bold, eye-catching, and full of personality such as chunky cuffs, oversized earrings and cocktail rings
Station: A design where the gemstones are placed along a necklace or bracelet chain in a spaced out style
Step Cut: A distinctive gemstone cutting type that has a geometric pattern with flat facets that run parallel to each other. Emerald, Asscher and baguette cuts are among the step cuts.
Sterling Silver (SS): An alloy of silver and copper, made up of 92.5% pure silver
Stud Earrings / Studs: A classic and minimalist earrings design that features a small post that goes through the earlobe, topped typically with a solitaire gemstone, pearl or other design
Symmetry: A term referring to how even and consistent a diamond's or a gemstone’s facets are in size, angle and placement
Synthetic Gemstone: A gemstone created in laboratories to mimic the look and properties of natural precious gemstones
T
Table: The flat top surface of a brilliant-cut gemstone
Tapered: A design element where the ring band or a gemstone starts out wider at one end and gets slimmer towards the other
Tarnishing: A dark coating occurring on the surface of copper, brass and other similar metals over time when it reacts with the air or is exposed to moisture
Tennis Bracelet: A bracelet design featuring a row of evenly sized diamonds (or other gemstones) strung together on a flexible metal band
Tennis Necklace: A necklace design featuring a row of evenly sized diamonds (or other gemstones) strung together on a flexible metal band
Textured: A finish that has patterns, bumps, grooves or other variations, and is therefore not smooth
Three Stone: Any jewelry piece that features three gemstones
Toggle Clasp: A functional necklace closure type where a bar slides through a decorative loop or opening on the other end to secure the necklace
Toi et Moi: French for "you and me", a ring design featuring two gemstones, often of different shapes or sizes, set side-by-side
Topaz: A silicate mineral made from aluminum and fluorine, and comes in a rainbow of colors, from icy blue to orange and pink
Tourmaline: A semi-precious gemstone belonging to the silicate mineral group and known for its extensive color range
Translucent: Partly transparent
Trellis: A setting design that secures the stone using interwoven prongs (little metal claws holding the stone in place)
Trillion Cut: A gemstone cut that has a triangular shape with three flat facets on the top and a pointed bottom
Trio Set: A ring setting style that features three gemstones, often symbolically representing the past, present and future of the couple
TTW: The abbreviation for total carat weight
Tungsten: A scratch-proof and tarnishing-resistant metal known for its dark gray luster
Turquoise: A semi-precious gemstone with sky blue to bolder, almost greenish blue hues
Twisted Shank / Twisted Band: A design element for rings where the band spirals along its length
U
U-Curved: A type of curve design with a clear bend that forms a distinct U shape
U-Prong: A setting type where a metal clasp shaped like a "U" holds a gemstone in place, allowing for more light to pass through the stone
Ultrasonic Cleaning: A high-tech jewelry cleaning technique that uses sound waves to loosen and remove dirt and grime from a piece of jewelry
Uncut: Gemstones that haven’t been cut into any shape and faceted
Unisex: Jewelry pieces that are designed to be worn by anyone, regardless of gender
Untreated: Gemstones that haven’t undergone any treatments to enhance their color or clarity
V
Vermeil: An alloy made with a sterling silver base coated in a thicker layer of real gold
Vintage-Inspired: Pieces that draw on design elements from past eras, like the Victorian times or the Art Deco movement
W
Wedding Band / Wedding Ring: A ring that is typically exchanged during the engagement or wedding ceremony depending on matrimonial traditions. We have a wedding ring guide that dives deeper into the different styles, metals and sizes.
White Gold: An alloy of gold and a white metal like silver and palladium that gives the gold a shiny white look
White Metal: A broad term that defines any light-colored metal used for crafting jewelry, which includes platinum, palladium, silver and stainless steel
Y
Yellow Gold: A very precious metal with a metallic yellow color, which is the color of gold in its natural form
Z
Zinc: An affordable and lightweight metal often used as a base metal
Zircon: An affordable and common gemstone that is often colorless but can be heat-treated to mimic diamonds or other gemstones