A

1. Alloy: A mixture of two or more metals used to create jewelry, combining the desirable properties of each metal.

B

1. Birthstone: A gemstone associated with a specific month, believed to bring luck and positive attributes to individuals born during that month.

C

1. Carat: A unit of weight used to measure gemstones, with one carat equivalent to 200 milligrams.

2. Clarity: Refers to the presence of internal or external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes, in a gemstone.

D

1. Diamond: A precious gemstone known for its exceptional brilliance and hardness, often used as the centerpiece in engagement rings and other fine jewelry.

E

1. Estate Jewelry: Pre-owned or vintage jewelry that carries historical, collectible, or sentimental value.

F

1. Filigree: A delicate decorative design made by twisting and curling fine metal wires, often used in intricate jewelry pieces.

G

1. Gemstone: A precious or semi-precious mineral that is cut and polished to be used in jewelry.

H

1. Hallmark: A mark or stamp on jewelry that indicates the metal content and sometimes the maker's mark, ensuring its authenticity and quality.

I

1. Inclusion: Internal flaws or imperfections within a gemstone, formed during its natural growth process.

J

1. Jade: A highly valued gemstone known for its rich green color and symbolizing purity, wisdom, and tranquility.

K

1. Karat: A unit of purity used to measure the gold content in jewelry, with 24 karats being pure gold.

L

1. Luster: The quality and intensity of light reflected from the surface of a gemstone or metal.

M

1. Marcasite: A metallic mineral used in jewelry to create a distinctive, glittering effect.

N

1. Necklace: A piece of jewelry worn around the neck, often adorned with gemstones or other decorative elements.

O

1. Opal: A gemstone known for its iridescent play of colors, ranging from vibrant hues to soft pastels.

P

1. Pearl: A lustrous, organic gemstone formed within the shells of certain mollusks, prized for its beauty and elegance.

Q

1. Quartz: A versatile gemstone available in various colors, including clear quartz (rock crystal) and purple quartz (amethyst).

R

1. Ruby: A precious gemstone prized for its deep red color and association with love, passion, and wealth.

S

1. Sapphire: A precious gemstone available in various colors, with blue being the most popular, symbolizing loyalty, wisdom, and nobility.

2. Sterling Silver: A high-quality silver alloy consisting of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% of other metals, such as copper, to enhance durability.

T

1. Tanzanite: A rare and valuable blue-violet gemstone discovered in Tanzania, known for its vibrant color and striking brilliance.

U

1. Ultrasonic Cleaner: A device that uses ultrasonic waves to clean jewelry by removing dirt and debris from hard-to-reach areas.

V

1. Vermeil: A type of jewelry made with a base of sterling silver and coated with a layer of gold, usually of at least 10 karats.

W

1. Wedding Band: A ring exchanged between partners during a wedding ceremony, symbolizing their commitment and eternal love.

X

1. Xenotime: A rare mineral used as a gemstone, valued for its unique colors and intricate patterns.

Y

1. Yellow Gold: Gold in its natural color, often used in jewelry-making due to its warm and timeless appeal.

Z

1. Zircon: A gemstone available in various colors, including blue and colorless, known for its brilliance and fire.