In our excitement to share with you about our latest designs, we sometimes forget that not everyone knows what we are talking about. So here is a list (which will continue to grow) of jewelry terms. If we've forgotten anything, drop us a note and we'll add it! Bail - hoop like piece that attaches a pendant to a chain or necklace. Bangle - round or elliptical bracelet Briolette - a teardrop shaped faceted gemstone or glass bead. Charm - dangling component featuring animals, flowers, memorabilia and other images of interest to the wearer. For example, someone who loves gardening might have a flower pot, trowel, sun hat or other charms related to gardening. Can be made from precious metals, pewter, copper and other base metals, Choker - Necklace (about 16 inches) that fits close to your neck. Suitable for formal and casual attire. Clasp - metal, crystal, wood or other sturdy material used to connect two ends of necklace around neck. Opera and Rope lengths may not have clasp. Drop earring - a design that dangles below the earlobe Earbacks - plastic, metal or a combination to secure earring post or hook Facet - a flat surface of a multi-surfaced stone. Filigree - a technique which results in a fine intricate metal pattern. Hoop earring - a circular designed earring Inclusions - interior cracks beneath the surface. Gemstones and crystals result from minerals dissolved in water slowly evaporating and hardening. This process creates minor cracks beneath the surface which considered part of their natural beauty and should not affect wearing. Knot - Hand-tied knots between pearls to protect them from rubbing together and to keep pearls from scattering should silk thread bread. Found most often in higher quality pearl necklaces as this is time consuming. Lobster claw - an oval shaped clasp that with a spring opening that hooks into opposite ring. Can be difficult to open with long nails or less dexterity. Matinee-length - necklace (about 22 inches) length common for casual day wear. Matte finish - surface of metal or glass that is dull and does not give off any shine or luster. Opera-length - Necklace (about 30 - 32 inches) length common for formal wear. Often double strands. Patina - refers to a change in surface color due to aging or chemical treatment that simulates aging. Bali silver with its darker curves and crevices has a chemical created patina. Post - part of earring that inserts into earlobe Princess-length - Necklace (about 18 inches) longer than choker. Rope-length - Necklace (40 inches or longer) that can be knotted or double wrapped around neck. Multiple strands are very common. Sterling Silver - items are made of 92-1/2% pure silver and 7-1/2% copper or other alloy, proportions fixed by law. Sterling silver will "patina" in time, that is, its color will take on an "antique" look. Vermeil - (Vehr-MAY) Componants are made of sterling silver, then heavily electroplated with 22Kt yellow gold. Excellent alternative to costly karat gold. |
