jewellry

Jewellry, a variant spelling of jewellery, refers to decorative items worn for personal adornment. It includes rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, brooches, and watches, as well as hair ornaments and anklets. Jewelry serves aesthetic, symbolic, and social functions, signaling identity, affection, or status, and is produced across cultures and time periods.

Materials and techniques: Common metals include gold, silver, and platinum, often alloyed for hardness and color. Gemstones such as diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires are frequently set into pieces, though pearls, enamel, glass, and synthetic substitutes are also used. Jewelry is made through casting, forging, soldering, stone setting, and finishing, with care taken to cut, polish, and secure settings.

Classification: Fine jewelry uses high-purity metals and precious stones; fashion or costume jewelry uses less expensive materials. Common settings include prong, bezel, channel, and pavé. Styles range from traditional to contemporary and reflect cultural heritage, brand, and personal taste.

History and ethics: Jewelry has been crafted since ancient times, serving ceremonial, trade, and decorative purposes. Modern markets address ethical considerations, including responsible sourcing of metals and gemstones and the use of laboratory-grown stones. Certifications and hallmarking in some regions help verify material quality and origin.

Care and maintenance: Proper storage, regular cleaning, and avoidance of harsh chemicals extend life. For valuable pieces, professional appraisal and periodic inspection of settings are recommended.