Jewelry Terms Glossary List

Tired of reading the jewelry tag and trying to understand the jewelry terms?  Want to be able to tell the jewelry seller exactly what you want, and don't want? 

Everyone loves jewelry (especially women!) but jewelry terminology can sometimes sound like a foreign language. 

Handmade jewelry is one of the most fun things to purchase. When you are looking for costume jewelry, you can really go all out, because its intended to look great without costing you an arm and a leg. The problem can occur when reading some of the descriptions of jewelry and so becoming aware of what the different terms mean can really help you decide on what type of handmade jewelry you really want.

You should take the time to learn the basic terminology when buying handmade jewelry.  It is important, because if you go to the best place, which is online, you won’t be able to hold the jewelry in your hand. Sometimes pictures may not show exactly what you want and so by understanding exactly what the text description is referring to, you will be able to pick out the perfect pieces of handmade jewelry. 

And, if you want to ask the artisan a question about a particular piece of jewelry wouldn't it be nice to know what to ask?

Explore the definitions of common jewelry terms in a variety of glossaries.   

What is a karat?  How does it differ from a caret?
See the Gold Glossary

Aurora Borealis?  Isn't that the Northern Lights?
See the General Glossary

Hoop, paddle back, ear thread?  All I want is a pair of earrings.
See the Earring Glossary

Base metal, pot metal - what's the difference?
See the Metal Glossary

Just how long is an opera length necklace?
See the Necklace Glossary

Native Tribes Jewelry

This site is dedicated to providing information about authentic handmade Native American silver and turquoise jewelry from the Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni tribes of the American southwest.

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