Jewellery vs. Jewel: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss || Updated on May 21, 2024
Jewellery refers to decorative items like rings, necklaces, and bracelets, while a jewel is a single precious stone often used in jewellery.
Key Differences
Jewellery encompasses a wide range of decorative items such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. These items are often made from precious metals and may include various gemstones. Whereas, a jewel is a single precious stone, such as a diamond, ruby, or emerald, which can be set into jewellery pieces.
Jewellery can be made from different materials, including gold, silver, and platinum, and can incorporate various jewels to enhance its beauty. On the other hand, a jewel by itself is typically a cut and polished precious stone valued for its rarity and beauty.
Jewellery pieces are often designed to complement fashion and are used for adornment in various cultures and traditions. Conversely, a jewel is primarily valued for its individual characteristics such as color, clarity, and carat.
Jewellery is usually crafted by artisans and can be mass-produced or custom-made to suit personal tastes. A jewel, however, is often graded and appraised based on its quality and intrinsic value before being incorporated into jewellery.
In the context of terminology, jewellery is a collective term for items made with artistic skill for adornment. Meanwhile, a jewel refers specifically to a singular precious gem that is typically set into a piece of jewellery.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Decorative items like rings, necklaces, etc.
A single precious stone
Material
Includes metals and gems
Precious stones like diamonds, rubies
Function
Used for personal adornment
Enhances the beauty of jewellery
Craftsmanship
Made by artisans, can be custom-made
Graded and appraised based on quality
Terminology
Collective term for various adornments
Refers specifically to one gem
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Jewellery and Jewel Definitions
Jewellery
Can include rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, etc.
He bought jewellery for his wife on their anniversary.
Jewel
A single precious stone like a diamond or ruby.
The jewel in her ring sparkled brightly.
Jewellery
Used in various cultural and traditional ceremonies.
The bride's jewellery was traditional and elegant.
Jewel
Often the centerpiece of a piece of jewellery.
The pendant featured a stunning sapphire jewel.
Jewellery
Often made from precious metals and stones.
The jewellery set included a diamond necklace.
Jewel
A precious stone; a gem.
Jewellery
Decorative items worn for personal adornment.
She wore exquisite jewellery to the gala.
Jewel
A small natural or artificial gem used as a bearing in a watch.
Jewellery
Sometimes custom-made to suit individual preferences.
She ordered custom-made jewellery for her wedding.
Jewel
A costly ornament of precious metal or gems.
Jewellery
Collectively, personal ornamentation such as rings, necklaces, brooches and bracelets, made of precious metals and sometimes set with gemstones.
She had more jewellery ornamented about her than any three ladies needed.
Jewel
One that is treasured or esteemed.
Jewellery
See Jewelry.
Jewel
To adorn with jewels.
Jewellery
An adornment (as a bracelet or ring or necklace) made of precious metals and set with gems (or imitation gems)
Jewel
To fit with jewels.
Jewel
A precious or semi-precious stone; gem, gemstone.
Jewel
A valuable object used for personal ornamentation, especially one made of precious metals and stones; a piece of jewellery.
Jewel
(figuratively) Anything precious or valuable.
Galveston was the jewel of Texas prior to the hurricane.
Jewel
(horology) A bearing for a pivot in a watch, formed of a crystal or precious stone.
Jewel
Any of various lycaenid butterflies of the genus Hypochrysops.
Jewel
(slang) The clitoris.
Jewel
To bejewel; to decorate or bedeck with jewels or gems.
Jewel
An ornament of dress usually made of a precious metal, and having enamel or precious stones as a part of its design.
Plate of rare device, and jewelsOf rich and exquisite form.
Jewel
A precious stone; a gem.
Jewel
An object regarded with special affection; a precious thing.
Jewel
A bearing for a pivot a pivot in a watch, formed of a crystal or precious stone, as a ruby.
Jewel
To dress, adorn, deck, or supply with jewels, as a dress, a sword hilt, or a watch; to bespangle, as with jewels; to bejewel.
The long gray tufts . . . are jeweled thick with dew.
Jewel
A precious or semiprecious stone incorporated into a piece of jewelry
Jewel
A person who is a brilliant and precious as a piece of jewelry
Jewel
Adorn or decorate with precious stones;
Jeweled dresses
Jewel
Typically cut and polished for setting in jewellery.
The jeweler selected a flawless jewel for the necklace.
Jewel
Valued for its rarity and beauty.
This museum exhibits rare jewels from around the world.
Jewel
Can be graded based on clarity, color, and carat.
The appraisal confirmed the jewel's high value.
FAQs
Are all jewels used in jewellery?
Most jewels are used in jewellery, but some can be kept as collectibles or investments.
Can jewellery exist without jewels?
Yes, jewellery can be made from metals or other materials without jewels.
What is the main difference between jewellery and a jewel?
Jewellery refers to decorative items like rings and necklaces, while a jewel is a single precious stone often set in jewellery.
How is the value of a jewel determined?
The value is based on factors like clarity, color, cut, and carat.
How is jewellery typically made?
Jewellery is crafted by artisans using various materials, often incorporating jewels.
Can jewellery be handmade?
Yes, many pieces are handmade by skilled artisans.
What is the significance of jewellery in culture?
Jewellery often holds cultural, traditional, and sentimental value.
What materials are used in jewellery?
Common materials include gold, silver, platinum, and various gems.
Is jewellery only for women?
No, jewellery is worn by people of all genders.
What is a jewel's carat?
Carat measures the weight of a jewel.
Do all cultures use jewellery?
Most cultures have some form of jewellery for adornment.
Is a diamond considered jewellery?
A diamond itself is a jewel, but it becomes jewellery when set into a piece like a ring or necklace.
Can a jewel be synthetic?
Yes, synthetic jewels exist and are used in jewellery.
Can jewellery be an investment?
Yes, especially pieces with high-quality jewels.
How often should jewellery be cleaned?
Regularly, to maintain its appearance and value.
Are all jewellery pieces valuable?
Value depends on the materials and craftsmanship.
Are pearls considered jewels?
Yes, pearls are organic jewels used in jewellery.
Can jewels change color over time?
Some jewels may change color due to exposure to elements.
What is costume jewellery?
Jewellery made from inexpensive materials, often without real jewels.
What is fine jewellery?
High-quality jewellery often made with precious metals and jewels.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
