Building your jewelry collection is an exciting journey, but you might stumble upon some unfamiliar terms along the way while doing research or browsing shops. Don’t let industry jargon intimidate you! When it comes to fine jewelry, Houston shoppers should be well-informed and confident when making their choice.
Understanding the common terms used in the fine jewelry space not only enhances your shopping experience, but also helps you communicate effectively with the jeweler to find the perfect pieces to match your style and preferences. This guide will help you understand jewelry vocabulary, and will hopefully make your shopping experience more enjoyable.
Earring terminology
Climber: Earrings that “climb” up your earlobe, creating a stylish, elongated look.
Cuff: Ear cuffs wrap around the edge of your ear and don’t require a piercing, offering a modern and edgy style.
Drop: Drop earrings hang below the earlobe, often featuring a gemstone or decorative piece at the end.
Hoops: Circular earrings that range from small and subtle to large and bold.
Huggies: Small hoops that “hug” your earlobe closely.
Studs: Simple earrings that sit directly on the earlobe, often featuring a single gemstone or decorative element.
Dangling: Earrings that dangle below the earlobe, often adding movement and flair.
Chandelier: Elaborate earrings with multiple tiers that dangle and move, resembling a chandelier.
Necklace terminology
Box chain: A chain made of square links that create a smooth, sleek look.
Cable chain: A classic chain style with round or oval links connected in a simple pattern.
Collar necklace: A short necklace that sits snugly around the middle of the neck, often around 12-14 inches long.
Choker: A close-fitting necklace that sits high on the neck, typically 14-16 inches long.
Curb chain: A chain with flattened links that interlock closely for a smooth, sleek look.
Cuban chain: Similar to a curb chain but with thicker, heavier links.
Matinee necklace: A necklace that typically falls to the top of the bust, usually around 20-24 inches long.
Opera necklace: A long necklace, typically 28-34 inches, that can be worn as a single strand or doubled up for a layered look.
Paperclip: A trendy chain style with elongated, rectangular links resembling paperclips.
Pendant: A single decorative piece, like a gemstone, that hangs from a necklace.
Princess necklace: A versatile necklace length, typically 18 inches, that falls just below the collarbone.
Rope necklace: A very long necklace, usually over 36 inches, that can be worn in various styles, including doubled or knotted.
Snake chain: A sleek, flexible chain made of tightly connected rings, creating a smooth, round appearance.
Solitaire: A necklace featuring a single, prominent gemstone.
Strand: A simple string of beads or pearls, often used to describe pearl necklaces.
Tennis necklace: A necklace featuring a continuous line of gemstones, usually diamonds, set closely together.
Bracelet terminology
Bangle: A solid, circular bracelet that slips over the hand and can be worn alone or stacked.
Chain bracelets: A bracelet made of linked metal pieces, offering flexibility and a classic look.
Charm bracelet: A bracelet adorned with small decorative pendants or trinkets, each representing something personal or meaningful.
Cuff: A wide, open-ended bracelet that wraps around the wrist without a clasp.
Tennis bracelet: A bracelet featuring a line of closely set gemstones, usually diamonds, similar to tennis necklaces.
Ring terminology
Cluster: A ring featuring a group of small gemstones arranged closely together.
Halo: A ring design where a central gemstone is surrounded by a “halo” of smaller stones.
Pavé: A ring setting where the ring’s surface is covered with tiny gemstones, giving it a continuous sparkle.
Three-Stone: A ring featuring three gemstones, often symbolizing the past, present, and future.
Eternity Band: A ring with a continuous line of gemstones encircling the entire band.
By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you’ll feel more confident and informed when shopping for fine jewelry. If you need more help, you can visit our Houston showroom or send us a message and we’ll be more than happy to assist!
