jewelry/jewellery
jewelry/jewellery
Pronunciation
Jewelry (American English) / Jewellery (British English)
IPA Phonetic Spelling:
Jewelry (American English): /ˈdʒuːəl.ri/ or /ˈdʒuːl.ri/
Jewellery (British English): /ˈdʒuːəl.ri/ or /ˈdʒuːl.ri/ (often the same as US) or /ˈdʒuːəl.ri/
For /ˈdʒuːəl.ri/ (3 syllables - common for both US/UK):
Syllable 1: /dʒuː/
/dʒ/ as in "judge" (voiced palato-alveolar affricate)
/uː/ as in "moon" (long high back rounded vowel)
Syllable 2: /əl/
/ə/ as in "about" (schwa, unstressed vowel)
/l/ as in "light" (voiced alveolar lateral approximant)
Syllable 3: /ri/
/r/ as in "red" (voiced alveolar approximant)
/i/ as in "happy" (short high front unrounded vowel)
For /ˈdʒuːl.ri/ (2 syllables - often a quicker pronunciation for both US/UK):
Syllable 1: /dʒuːl/
/dʒ/ as in "judge" (voiced palato-alveolar affricate)
/uː/ as in "moon" (long high back rounded vowel)
/l/ as in "light" (voiced alveolar lateral approximant)
Syllable 2: /ri/
/r/ as in "red" (voiced alveolar approximant)
/i/ as in "happy" (short high front unrounded vowel)
Word Form Variations
Jewelry/jewellery" primarily functions as a mass noun (uncountable). Therefore, it typically does not have a plural form when referring to the general category. When referring to individual pieces, you use phrases like "pieces of jewelry."
Noun:
Singular: jewelry / jewellery (uncountable)
Plural: (no standard plural form for the general term; use "pieces of jewelry," "items of jewelry," etc.)
Adjective (attributive use of noun):
jewelry / jewellery (e.g., jewelry box, jewelry store)
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Noun
Ornaments for personal adornment, such as necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, brooches, or watches, typically made from precious metals (like gold, silver, platinum), gemstones, pearls, or other decorative materials.
Synonyms: adornments, ornaments, baubles (informal), trinkets (informal), precious items, bijouterie (formal/French origin)
Antonyms: plain clothes, simple attire, unadorned accessories (concepts opposite to adornment)
The craft, business, or collection of making, selling, or acquiring such ornaments.
Synonyms: goldsmithing, silversmithing, gemology (study of), adornment industry
Antonyms: (No direct antonyms, as it refers to an industry or craft)
(Figurative) Something highly valued, treasured, or beautiful, often implying preciousness or meticulous craftsmanship.
Synonyms: treasure, gem, prize, masterpiece, cherished possession, jewel (as a metaphor)
Antonyms: junk, worthless item, trash, debris
Examples of Use
Books:
"She inherited a small wooden box filled with antique silver jewelry from her grandmother." (From a fictional novel, generic example)
"The book explores the intricate history of African tribal jewellery, detailing its cultural significance and craftsmanship." (From a non-fiction art history book, generic example)
"He noticed the glint of fine jewelry on her wrist, a subtle hint of her wealth." (From a descriptive passage in a novel, generic example)
Newspapers:
"Stolen jewelry recovered after daring heist at city's most exclusive boutique." (From a crime report, generic example)
"Experts predict a rise in demand for sustainable and ethically sourced jewellery in the coming year." (From a business or lifestyle section, generic example)
"A unique collection of pre-colonial Ethiopian jewelry goes on display at the National Museum." (From an arts and culture review, generic example, relevant to current location)
Online Publications:
"Guide to cleaning and maintaining your precious diamond jewelry at home." (From a lifestyle or fashion blog, e.g., MarthaStewart.com)
"Explore the latest trends in minimalist jewellery for everyday wear." (From an online fashion magazine, e.g., WhoWhatWear.com)
"Online retailers report record sales of bespoke jewellery pieces during the holiday season." (From an e-commerce news site, e.g., Retail Dive)
Various Entertainment Mediums and Platforms:
Film: "The cursed jewelry seemed to draw trouble wherever it went." (Dialogue or plot device from a fantasy or horror film, generic example, e.g., The Lord of the Rings with the One Ring acting as a central, albeit more powerful, "jewelry" piece)
Television Series: "For this week's challenge, designers must create a complete jewellery set inspired by the Roaring Twenties." (From a reality competition show, e.g., Project Runway, specifically a design challenge)
Music (Song Lyrics): "Diamonds and pearls and fancy jewelry, that's all she ever wanted." (From a hip-hop or pop song, generic example, referencing material wealth)
Video Games: "Collecting rare jewelry items can enhance your character's stats or unlock special abilities." (In-game description or objective, e.g., Diablo series or Skyrim)
Podcasts: "Today's episode features an interview with a renowned artisan who specializes in custom-made jewellery from recycled materials." (From a craft or business podcast, generic example)
General Public Discourse:
"I bought her some beautiful jewelry for her birthday." (Common personal statement)
"That's a stunning piece of jewelry you're wearing." (Common compliment)
"He sells handcrafted jewelry at the local market every Saturday." (Common description of a vendor)
"Be careful when swimming; you don't want to lose your jewelry." (Common advice)
"My grandmother's jewellery means more to me than any new piece." (Common expression of sentimental value)
10 Famous Quotes Using Jewelry/Jewellery
“Jewelry is like the perfect spice – it always complements what’s already there.” — Diane Von Furstenberg (Celebrating how jewelry enhances natural beauty and style.)
“I have always felt a gift diamond shines so much better than one you buy for yourself.” — Mae West (A witty nod to the pleasure of receiving jewelry as a token of affection.)
“I adore wearing gems, but not because they are mine. You can’t possess radiance, you can only admire it.” — Elizabeth Taylor (Taylor, known for her legendary collection, speaking to the deeper allure of jewels.)
“Jewellery has the power to be the one little thing that makes you feel unique.” — Jennie Kwon (Jewelry as a personal and expressive statement.)
“Costume jewelry is not made to give women an aura of wealth, but to make them beautiful.” — Coco Chanel (Championing accessibility and the artistry of fashion jewelry.)
“Big girls need big diamonds.” — Elizabeth Taylor (Another classic from the queen of sparkle, underscoring bold confidence.)
“Jewelry takes people’s minds off your wrinkles.” — Sonja Henie (A humorous take on aging and adornment.)
“The pearl is the queen of gems and the gem of queens.” — Grace Kelly (attributed) (A nod to the timeless elegance of pearl jewelry.)
“The modern woman carries her own keys and buys her own jewelry.” — Anonymous (modern feminist motto) (A reflection of independence and self-sufficiency.)
“My favorite thing in my wardrobe is my jewelry.” — Kate Reardon (Acknowledging the central place jewelry holds in personal style.)
Etymology
The word "jewelry" (or "jewellery" in British English) has a charming history that points back to the idea of something being a "delight" or "plaything."
It ultimately comes from the Latin word "jocale," which meant "plaything" or "ornament." This word itself is related to the Latin word "jocus," meaning "jest" or "play."
From Latin, it evolved into the Old French word "jouel" (meaning "ornament" or "precious object"). This "jouel" then became the root for "juelerye" in Old French.
This Old French term was then adopted into Middle English (around the late 14th century, specifically from 1300-1350) as "juelrye."
So, the first known use and meaning of "jewelry" in English (via its Old French predecessor) was to refer to "precious ornaments" or "jewel work." It encompassed decorative items that brought "delight" or were considered valuable adornments for personal wear. Over time, the spelling diversified between American and British English, but the core meaning of ornamental items has remained.
Phrases + Idioms Containing Jewelry/Jewellery
Here's a list of phrases and idioms using "jewelry" or "jewellery," supplemented as needed:
Costume jewelry: Inexpensive, fashion-focused jewelry made from non-precious materials.
Family jewelry / heirloom jewelry: Pieces of jewelry passed down through generations.
Fine jewelry: High-quality jewelry made from precious metals and gemstones.
Statement jewelry: Large, eye-catching pieces designed to be the focal point of an outfit.
Wearing one's heart on one's sleeve: Openly displaying emotions, often in a way that is visible like an adornment. (Metaphorical, similar to wearing jewelry to show something)
Dressed to the nines: Dressed very fashionably or elaborately, often including significant jewelry. (Implied inclusion of jewelry)
Sparkle and shine: To be brilliant and attractive, often used to describe jewelry. (Original phrase, descriptive)
A bauble for every occasion: Having many pieces of jewelry, perhaps excessively. (Lesser-known, descriptive)
Adorned with gems: Decorated with precious stones, directly referring to jewelry. (Formal, descriptive)
Precious adornments: Valued items used for decoration, synonymous with jewelry. (Synonymous phrase)
Gilding the lily: Adding unnecessary ornamentation to something already beautiful. (Idiom, relates to over-adorning like too much jewelry)
Decked out: Dressed up elaborately, often with jewelry. (Informal idiom)
The Midas touch: The ability to turn everything one touches into gold or make it valuable. (Metaphorical, relates to wealth associated with jewelry)
A treasure trove: A large collection of valuable items, which can include jewelry. (Synonymous concept)
Glitters like gold: To shine brightly and attractively, a quality of much jewelry. (Original phrase, descriptive)
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of jewelry/jewellery from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
