Jewelry/Watch Glossary

A clasp is the fastening mechanism at the end of a necklace, bracelet, or anklet that allows the piece to be opened, put on, and securely closed. Clasps are one...

Engraving is the process of cutting or etching a design, lettering, or decorative pattern directly into the surface of a metal jewelry piece. The technique removes a controlled amount of...

925 silver is a hallmark stamp meaning a piece contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, most commonly copper. The number refers to parts per thousand: a ring marked...

Gold plating is an electrochemical process that bonds a thin layer of gold to the surface of a base metal, most commonly brass, copper, or sterling silver. The piece is...

The watch crystal is the transparent cover that sits over the watch dial, protecting the face from scratches, dust, and moisture. Despite the name, most watch crystals are not made...

Yellow gold is the most traditional and widely recognized form of gold used in jewelry. Pure gold (24k) is too soft to wear, so it is combined with metals such...

A jump ring is a small, circular or oval metal loop used to connect jewelry components. In its open form, the ring is cut at one point so it can...

A tension setting is a style of gemstone mounting where the stone appears to float between the two ends of the metal band, held in place entirely by the compressive...

Re-shanking is the process of replacing the lower band portion of a ring - the section that wraps around the finger and bears the most daily contact - when it...