Browse terminology related to jewelry materials, manufacturing, sourcing, and more.
A statistical sampling standard (ISO 2859-1) defining maximum defective units allowed — the global benchmark for jewelry quality inspection.
An alloy of copper and zinc, widely used in fashion and costume jewelry as a base metal for gold plating.
A synthetic crystalline material (ZrO₂) used as an affordable diamond simulant, available in grades from A to AAAAA.
The functional components and connectors used in jewelry assembly — clasps, earring backs, jump rings, bails, pin stems, and chain connectors.
An official stamp on precious metal jewelry indicating metal purity, maker identity, and (in regulated markets) the assay office that verified it.
A precision metal casting process where a wax model is encased, burned out, and replaced with molten metal — the most common method for detailed jewelry production.
The amount of nickel leaching from jewelry into skin — regulated by EU REACH (EN 1811) at max 0.5 μg/cm²/week to prevent allergic dermatitis.
A gemstone setting technique using metal claws (prongs) that grip the stone from above — the most common setting for engagement rings.
A thin layer of rhodium — a platinum-group metal — electroplated onto jewelry for a bright white finish, tarnish resistance, and scratch protection.
An alloy containing 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (typically copper), the global standard for silver jewelry.
Surface discoloration of metal jewelry — especially silver — caused by reaction with sulfur compounds in air, forming dark metal sulfide.
X-Ray Fluorescence — a non-destructive method to verify precious metal purity in seconds without damaging the jewelry piece.
