"How should I choose my jewelry?"
Whether it's for a birthday, anniversary, or a treat for yourself, you want to choose a wonderful piece of jewelry, but with so many types, materials, and gemstone names, it's easy to get lost.
This article will clearly explain everything from the basic types of items like necklaces, rings, and earrings, to materials like gold and platinum, and fundamental knowledge about diamonds and colored stones, all to help you choose the perfect jewelry.
By reading this article, you're sure to find tips to discover a piece of jewelry that suits you perfectly and that you'll cherish for a lifetime. Now, let's go find your unique sparkle.
Table of Contents
- ・Types and Characteristics of Jewelry Items
- ・Types and Characteristics of Materials Used in Jewelry
- ・Types and Characteristics of Gemstones
- ・How to Choose Jewelry that Suits You
- ・Popular Brands and Trends (Reference)
- ・Jewelry Care and Precautions
- ・Glossary of Basic Terms for Jewelry Selection
- ・Supervisor of this Article
Types and Characteristics of Jewelry Items
While the term "jewelry" is broad, the types of jewelry are diverse. From pieces that adorn your neck to those for your fingers and ears, understanding the characteristics of each item can help you find the perfect piece for you. Here, we introduce representative jewelry items and their features.
Necklaces
Necklaces are jewelry that beautifully adorn the neck. The impression can change significantly depending on the chain length, design, and whether there is a top (pendant head).
Chain types: There is a wide variety, from simple chains to highly designed Curb chains, Venetian chains, and Azuki chains.
Top (pendant head): This is the part where you can express your individuality, such as a single diamond or colored stone, motif designs (heart, cross, etc.), or initials.
Impression by length:
Choker (approx. 35-40cm): A shorter length that sits close to the neck, giving a neat and sharp impression.
Princess (approx. 40-45cm): A standard length that rests on the collarbone, popular because it suits any style.
Matinee (approx. 50-60cm): A length that reaches the chest, creating an elegant and calm atmosphere.
Opera (approx. 70-80cm): A long length that can be arranged, for example, by wearing it in a Y-shape.
Choosing the length according to the occasion, from everyday wear to party scenes, is also a key point.
Rings
Rings not only adorn the fingers but also play an important role as fashion items and tokens of remembrance.
Fashion rings: These are rings with high design quality that add color to everyday outfits. You can enjoy stacking them or express your individuality through their design and material.
Pair rings: Rings worn by couples in matching sets, often featuring simple designs.
Engagement rings: Rings given as a promise of marriage, generally adorned with diamonds.
Wedding rings: Rings worn daily by married couples, where durability and comfort are emphasized.
Designs are also diverse.
Solitaire: A simple design with a single gemstone in the center.
Pavé: A design where small gemstones are set closely together, creating a brilliant sparkle.
Eternity: A design where gemstones are arranged all around the ring band, symbolizing "forever."
Melee: A design where small gemstones are added around the main gemstone.
By choosing the band's line, such as V-shaped, S-shaped, or straight, to match the shape of your finger, you can make your finger appear even more beautiful.
Earrings
Earrings, which adorn the ears, are items that brighten the face and add elegance to expressions.
Pierced earrings: Worn by piercing the ear.
Stud earrings: Simple designs where the motif is directly attached to the earlobe. Ideal for everyday wear.
Hoop earrings: Ring-shaped earrings whose impression changes depending on their size and thickness.
American earrings: Designs with dangling chains that sparkle with movement, giving an elegant impression.
Drop earrings/Dangle earrings: Types where the motif hangs from the earlobe, creating a glamorous effect.
Clip-on earrings: Worn without piercing the ear.
Clip-on style: Clamps onto the earlobe, offering stability.
Screw-back style: Adjustable with a screw and spring, allowing for a secure fit.
Non-pierced earrings: Clamp onto the earlobe with resin or similar material, giving the appearance of pierced earrings.
By choosing earrings that match your face shape and hairstyle, you can enhance your attractiveness. For example, it is said that people with round faces suit vertical drop types, while those with long faces suit wide hoop types.
Bracelets and Bangles
Bracelets and bangles, which adorn the wrist, are items that sparkle with the movement of your hand, enhancing a delicate charm.
Bracelets: Made of chains, beads, etc., they fit flexibly around the wrist.
Chain bracelets: Simple and versatile, matching any style.
Charm bracelets: Customizable with your favorite charms.
Tennis bracelets: Lavish designs with a continuous line of small gemstones (mainly diamonds).
Bangles: Circular ornaments made of metal or other materials worn on the arm. They are fixed on the wrist, making them a noticeable and stylish accent.
It's recommended to choose based on your arm shape and fashion taste. For slender wrists, you can stack delicate bracelets or wear a single statement bangle, enjoying various styling options.
Other Items (Pendants, Brooches, etc.)
In addition to the above, there are various other types of jewelry.
Pendant tops: These are independent decorative parts used by threading them onto a necklace chain. By changing them according to your mood or occasion, you can enjoy diverse looks with a single chain.
Brooches: Decorative items pinned to clothes, bags, hats, etc. They are suitable for adding flair to a simple outfit or expressing individuality.
Anklets: Jewelry that adorns the ankle. They elevate your foot fashion, especially when wearing sandals.
Tie pins/Cufflinks: Although these are items for men, they can add elegance and individuality to a suit style.
Incorporating these items skillfully can broaden your fashion range and create a more sophisticated impression.
Types and Characteristics of Materials Used in Jewelry
When choosing jewelry, while design and gemstone type are undoubtedly important, it's also crucial to understand what materials are used. The material significantly affects the visual impression, durability, care methods, and price. This section will delve into the main jewelry materials: precious metals (gold, platinum, silver) and other materials.
Precious Metals (Gold, Platinum, Silver)
Precious metals are generally rare and chemically stable (resistant to rust and tarnishing). In jewelry, gold, platinum, and silver are primarily used. These precious metals each possess distinct properties and have been valued historically. Their luster has captivated people across generations, serving not only as adornments but also holding value as assets.
| Feature | Gold | Platinum | Silver |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Rich golden color, changes to pink or white depending on type | Calm white luster | Bright, cool white luster |
| Rarity | High (low mining volume) | Extremely high (rarer than gold) | High (relatively abundant among precious metals) |
| Durability | Relatively soft, but strengthened by alloying | Very high (resistant to alteration and discoloration) | Soft, prone to tarnishing due to sulfurization |
| Weight | Heavy | Slightly heavier than gold | Light |
| Allergy | Relatively unlikely to cause allergies | Very unlikely to cause allergies | May cause allergies in some cases |
| Price Range | Expensive (depends on purity and type) | Most expensive | Least expensive among precious metals |
Types of Gold (K18, K14, K10, etc.)
Gold has been prized as a jewelry material since ancient times due to its beautiful luster and rarity. Pure gold is very soft and unsuitable for jewelry as is, so it is alloyed with other metals (silver, copper, palladium, etc.) to increase its strength. The purity of gold is indicated by the unit "K (karat)."
K24 (pure gold): Gold purity of 99.9% or more. It is very soft and difficult to process, so it is often used for ingots and coins and rarely for jewelry.
K18: Gold purity of 75%. The remaining 25% are other metals. It balances moderate strength with beautiful luster and is most commonly used in high-end jewelry. It is resistant to tarnishing and unlikely to cause allergies.
K14: Gold purity of 58.5%. The remaining 41.5% are other metals. It is harder than K18 and suitable for everyday jewelry. It is also more affordable than K18.
K10: Gold purity of 41.7%. The remaining 58.3% are other metals. It is even harder and more scratch-resistant. Because it is more affordable than K18 or K14, it is often used for casual fashion jewelry.
Also, the color varies depending on the type of metals mixed, mainly in the following three types:
Yellow Gold: The vibrant color inherent to gold. It blends well with Japanese skin tones and is especially recommended for those with warm undertones.
Pink Gold: By mixing a higher proportion of copper, it gets a warm pink color. It blends well with skin and gives a feminine impression. It is particularly popular among those with warm undertones.
White Gold: Gold mixed with palladium and other metals to create a white color, further coated with rhodium. It features a cool luster similar to platinum and is especially recommended for those with cool undertones.
Types of Platinum (Pt950, Pt900, etc.)
Platinum, due to its rarity and everlasting white luster, symbolizes "eternal love" and is often chosen for wedding and engagement rings. It is highly chemically stable, resistant to acids and alkalis, and rarely discolors or degrades.
The purity of platinum is indicated by the "Pt" mark.
Pt950: Platinum purity of 95%. The remaining 5% is an alloy (other metals) like palladium. This purity is the highest according to international jewelry standards, combining delicate brilliance with appropriate hardness.
Pt900: Platinum purity of 90%. The remaining 10% is an alloy. It is harder than Pt950 and more resistant to scratches. It is suitable for everyday wear and is adopted by many jewelry brands.
Platinum is often used for diamond jewelry because its white luster maximizes the beauty of diamonds. Its hypoallergenic property is also one reason it's suitable for rings and earrings that come into direct contact with the skin.
Types of Silver (SV925, etc.)
Silver, among precious metals, is relatively inexpensive and boasts a bright, refined white luster. It is widely used for everything from casual fashion jewelry to delicate accessory designs.
The purity of silver is indicated by the "SV" mark.
SV925 (Sterling Silver): Silver purity of 92.5%. The remaining 7.5% is mixed with other metals, such as copper, to enhance its strength compared to pure silver. It is the most commonly used silver material for jewelry.
Silver tends to "sulfurize" when it reacts with sulfur components in the air, causing it to tarnish and turn blackish. Therefore, regular maintenance is required. However, this discoloration can also be enjoyed as an antique-like patina. It is a popular material for those who want to easily incorporate trends or prefer a casual style.
Other Materials (Stainless Steel, Titanium, etc.)
In addition to precious metals, various other materials are used in jewelry today. These materials each have different characteristics and are chosen to meet specific needs.
Stainless steel (e.g., Surgical Stainless Steel 316L): This material is also used for surgical scalpels and is highly rust-resistant and unlikely to cause metal allergies. Its high strength and scratch resistance make it suitable for everyday casual jewelry and couple accessories. Its reasonable price is also an attractive feature.
Titanium: A very lightweight material that is unlikely to cause metal allergies. It is highly durable and resistant to deformation, used even in aerospace industries. It is often chosen by athletes or those concerned about metal allergies.
Ceramic: A material characterized by a unique luster and hardness, similar to pottery. It is scratch-resistant and hardly discolors. It is often used for modern and stylish designs, such as black and white. It is lightweight and poses no risk of metal allergies.
These materials offer different charms and functionalities compared to precious metals, expanding the choices for jewelry selection. It is important to choose the optimal material based on your lifestyle, allergies, and desired design.
Types and Characteristics of Gemstones
This section will elaborate on the various gemstones that adorn jewelry. By understanding the unique charm and value of each gemstone, as well as tips for choosing them, you will be able to enjoy jewelry more deeply.
Diamonds
Dubbed the "King of Gemstones," the diamond is cherished worldwide as a symbol of eternal love and bond due to its unparalleled brilliance and hardness. It is the hardest natural substance on Earth, and its sparkle is created by its unique crystal structure that maximizes the reflection and refraction of light. It is a special gemstone chosen for engagement rings, wedding rings, anniversary gifts, and self-rewards alike, exuding a unique presence.
The 4Cs of Diamonds (Carat, Color, Clarity, Cut)
The quality of diamonds is objectively assessed by the "4Cs," an international evaluation standard. These are crucial factors in determining a diamond's value, and it's essential to check them when purchasing.
Carat: Carat is a unit that expresses the "weight" of a diamond. One carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams, and the higher the carat weight, the rarer and more valuable the diamond. However, carat is not the only factor; the overall value is determined by its balance with the other 3Cs.
Color: Color is an evaluation criterion that indicates the "color" of a diamond; the closer it is to colorless and transparent, the higher it is rated. It is graded on a 23-point scale from D (completely colorless) to Z (yellowish visible to the naked eye), with D-F generally considered colorless and G-J near-colorless.
Clarity: Clarity indicates the "transparency" of a diamond and is evaluated based on the presence, size, and position of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external flaws). It is graded on an 11-point scale from FL (Flawless: no inclusions or blemishes) to I3 (Included: inclusions visible to the naked eye).
Cut: Cut is the most critical factor affecting a diamond's "brilliance." It refers to the skill of polishing and shaping the rough stone, and it is comprehensively evaluated based on three elements: proportion, symmetry, and polish. It is graded on a five-point scale: Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor, with the highest grade, Excellent, emitting particularly beautiful brilliance.
Colored Stones
Colored stones are, as the name suggests, a collective term for gemstones rich in color. From the passionate red of rubies, the deep clear blue of sapphires, to the vibrant green of emeralds, no two are alike, and each possesses its own unique charm and individuality. Popular as birthstones, they are ideal for expressing the personality and feelings of the wearer.
Representative Colored Stones (Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, etc.)
Among colored stones, Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald are particularly known as the "Big Three Precious Stones."
Ruby: A vibrant red gemstone symbolizing passion and victory. It is also the birthstone for July and is sometimes called the "Queen of Gemstones." Its high hardness makes it suitable for everyday wear, but care should be taken with sudden temperature changes and impacts. Its stone meanings are "passion" and "love."
Sapphire: Characterized by its deep, clear blue color, it symbolizes sincerity and compassion. It is the birthstone for September, and the highest quality, known as Royal Blue, is especially prized. Like ruby, it is a variety of the mineral corundum and is very hard. Its stone meanings are "compassion" and "sincerity."
Emerald: Characterized by its vibrant green color, it symbolizes nature, vitality, and rebirth. It is the birthstone for May and is also known as "Cleopatra's Gemstone." Compared to other precious stones, its toughness (resistance to breakage) is lower, making it vulnerable to impact, so careful handling is required. Its stone meanings are "good fortune" and "hope."
Other Colored Stones (Amethyst, Topaz, Garnet, etc.)
In addition to the Big Three Precious Stones, there are many other fascinating colored stones.
Amethyst (February birthstone): Characterized by its noble purple color, it symbolizes "true love" and "peace of mind."
Topaz (November birthstone): Available in various colors such as clear blue, yellow, and pink, it signifies "hope" and "friendship."
Garnet (January birthstone): Generally deep red, but also available in green and orange, symbolizing "truth" and "friendship."
Aquamarine (March birthstone): Beautiful translucent blue, believed to bring "happiness" and "wealth."
Peridot (August birthstone): Characterized by a vibrant yellowish-green color, it signifies "marital happiness" and "harmony."
Opal (October birthstone): Its charm lies in the "play-of-color" effect, changing various colors depending on the viewing angle, symbolizing "hope" and "purity."
Moonstone (June birthstone): Characterized by a mysterious luster (adularescence) like moonlight, it signifies "achievement of love" and "healing."
Tourmaline (October birthstone): A gemstone with a remarkably diverse range of colors, symbolizing "hope" and "innocence."
Pearls
Pearls, also known as "tears of the moon," are organic gemstones cultivated within shells. Their gentle and elegant luster (pearlescence) is suitable for formal occasions such as ceremonies and celebrations, as well as for everyday wear, making them beloved by women of all ages.
Types of Pearls (Akoya, South Sea, Freshwater, etc.)
The types of pearls vary greatly depending on the species of shell and the environment in which they grow.
Akoya Pearls: These are representative pearls from Japan, harvested from Akoya oysters. They typically range from 2mm to 10mm in diameter, characterized by a fine luster and beautiful interference colors with pink or greenish overtones. Grown in Japan's warm seas, they possess a delicate and elegant radiance.
South Sea Pearls: Harvested from Pinctada maxima (white-lipped oysters) and Pinctada margaritifera (black-lipped oysters), these pearls are primarily cultivated in warm waters around Australia, Indonesia, Tahiti, and other regions.
White South Sea Pearls: Large in size, characterized by silver and gold hues. Golden pearls are particularly popular, and their presence earns them the title "Queen of Pearls."
Tahitian Pearls: Found in Tahiti and elsewhere, these pearls are characterized by mysterious black, grey, and green hues. The deep hue known as peacock green is especially prized.
Freshwater Pearls: Harvested from freshwater mussels such as the Hyriopsis cumingii. Unlike Akoya and South Sea pearls, they are often cultivated without a nucleus, resulting in a variety of shapes and colors. They are relatively affordable and easy to incorporate into casual fashion.
Pearls are susceptible to acids, heat, and dryness, so it's important to wipe them with a soft cloth after wearing and store them away from direct sunlight, high temperatures, and high humidity.
How to Choose Jewelry that Suits You
Finding jewelry that truly suits you is crucial for long-term enjoyment. Here, we'll introduce specific tips for choosing jewelry from various perspectives.
By Purpose (For yourself, as a gift, engagement/wedding rings)
The points to emphasize vary greatly depending on the purpose of choosing jewelry.
For yourself: When buying jewelry as a reward for yourself, what matters most is that "you genuinely love it." Choose a design you can cherish for a long time, regardless of trends, or an item that lifts your spirits when you wear it. It's also good to splurge a little on a coveted brand or high-quality material. From simple pieces suitable for everyday wear to elaborate ones for special occasions, choosing according to your lifestyle will bring greater satisfaction.
As a gift for someone special: When giving a gift, it's important to consider the recipient's preferences and lifestyle. Discreetly observe the designs, materials, and colors of the jewelry they usually wear. Choosing their birthstone or a stone with a meaningful message can also be a wonderful surprise. Select an item with a strong message, suitable for the relationship with the recipient and the occasion (birthday, anniversary, appreciation, etc.).
For engagement or wedding rings: Engagement and wedding rings are special pieces of jewelry that will be with you for a lifetime. Prioritize timeless designs that are not swayed by trends, durability for daily wear, and comfort. The choice of material, such as platinum or gold, is also important; consider your lifestyle and future maintenance when making a selection. By incorporating your personal preferences, such as the quality of the diamond (4Cs) or an engraved message, the ring will become truly unique.
By Budget
The price range of jewelry varies significantly depending on the material, type of gemstone, and brand. Make the best choice according to your budget.
If your budget is limited, you can enjoy jewelry at a more accessible price point by choosing gold types like K10 or K14, or silver materials. Additionally, opting for colored stones or pearls instead of diamonds can help keep costs down while maintaining elegance. To find the best sparkle within your budget, it's important to consider the balance between the material and the grade of the gemstone.
By Occasion (TPO)
By matching your jewelry to the occasion, it will look more beautiful and also adhere to proper etiquette.
Everyday wear: For daily use, simple designs that won't catch on things are recommended. In the office, small earrings or delicate necklaces give an elegant impression. If you are busy with housework or childcare, choosing durable materials or designs that blend with your skin is a good idea.
Formal occasions: For formal events like weddings and parties, elegant and glamorous jewelry is appropriate. Pearl or diamond necklaces and earrings are classics. However, be mindful of balance so as not to overshadow the main focus of the event. For funerals, avoid anything flashy and opt for understated pieces like a single strand pearl necklace.
Business settings: In business settings, a discreet design that emphasizes cleanliness and trustworthiness is preferred. Avoid overly bright colors or large stones; a simple single-diamond necklace or small stud earrings are suitable.
Compatibility with Personal Color and Skin Tone
Understanding the compatibility of personal colors and skin tones is extremely effective when choosing jewelry that suits you.
Yellow undertone (Warm): For those with warm undertones and a warm impression, yellow gold and rose gold suit particularly well. For gemstones, warm-toned colors such as orange, brown, green, and coral pink blend with the skin and make you look healthier.
Blue undertone (Cool): For those with cool undertones and a cool, translucent impression, platinum and white gold are recommended. For gemstones, cool-toned colors such as blue, purple, grey, clear, and rose pink enhance the transparency of the skin.
Knowing your personal color helps avoid mistakes not only in choosing precious metal colors but also in selecting colored stones. By choosing colors that blend with your skin, the jewelry will not stand out awkwardly from your skin, and it can also have the effect of brightening your complexion.
Popular Brands and Trends (Reference)
When choosing jewelry, knowing what brands are available and what designs are in vogue can be very helpful in finding the perfect piece for you. Here, we introduce the trends of popular brands both domestically and internationally, as well as current jewelry trends.
Trends of Popular Brands
There are numerous jewelry brands both domestically and internationally, each with its unique charm and worldview.
High Jewelers (Luxury Brands): Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Bvlgari, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston, among others, captivate people worldwide with their unparalleled designs and quality, backed by history and craftsmanship. They are characterized by artistic jewelry, especially those featuring diamonds and rare colored stones. They hold immense popularity for engagement and wedding rings.
Fashion Jewelry Brands: Many brands, primarily Japanese ones like Agete, Ete, Vendome Aoyama, Star Jewelry, offer jewelry with designs suitable for everyday wear and at accessible price points. They often incorporate current trends, with a rich variety of items that can be layered.
Brands with Personal Charm: Brands with distinctive designs or specific themes are also gaining attention. For example, designs that leverage the power and colors of natural stones, or unique handcrafted pieces that shine with artisan skill, are chosen by those seeking charm not found in mass-produced items.
Current Jewelry Trends
Jewelry trends are constantly changing, but recent years have shown the following tendencies:
Layering style: Layering, where multiple necklaces or rings are stacked, continues to be popular. By layering delicate chain necklaces or combining rings of different materials and designs, you can enjoy your own unique style.
Genderless designs: Simple and refined designs that can be worn by anyone, regardless of gender, are on the rise. Thicker chain necklaces and minimalist rings are gaining attention as items that can easily be incorporated into fashion regardless of gender.
Re-evaluation of colored stones: Not just diamonds, but also representative colored stones like rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, as well as vibrant semi-precious stones such as amethyst, topaz, and peridot, are gaining popularity. Choosing a birthstone or a colored stone that matches your personal color can enhance your personal charm.
Ethical and Sustainable: There is growing interest in jewelry made with consideration for the environment and society. The movement to choose items made from recycled materials or ethically sourced diamonds (such as lab-grown diamonds) with clear mining origins is also expanding.
Bold designs: After a period where minimalist designs were mainstream, large earrings and rings that make a statement are now trending. They are recommended as an accent to simple outfits.
While trends serve as a reference, it is ultimately important to choose jewelry that aligns with your personal preferences and lifestyle, and that you will cherish for a long time.
Jewelry Care and Precautions
To maintain the beauty of your purchased jewelry for a long time, proper care is essential. This section will explain daily care, appropriate storage methods, and proper cleaning techniques, emphasizing the importance of maintenance to cherish your jewelry "for a lifetime."
Daily Care
When worn daily, jewelry can lose its sparkle due to the accumulation of sebum, sweat, cosmetics, and other substances. Make it a habit to gently wipe your jewelry with a soft cloth (such as a glasses cleaning cloth or a jewelry-specific cloth) after each use. Especially after sweating or if cosmetics have adhered to it, careful wiping can prevent the buildup of dirt and slow down discoloration and deterioration. While diamonds and precious metals are water-resistant, some pearls and colored gemstones are susceptible to water and detergents, so it's important to care for them according to their material.
Storage Methods
Proper storage is also crucial for keeping your jewelry beautiful. To prevent scratches from bumping into other pieces, store each item in an individual pouch or in a jewelry box with compartments. Also, avoid storing jewelry in direct sunlight or in humid places. Silver products, in particular, tend to tarnish when reacting with sulfur components in the air, so it is recommended to store them in airtight bags. Pearls can crack if they dry out too much, so choose a location where appropriate humidity is maintained.
Cleaning
For dirt that cannot be removed with daily care alone, appropriate cleaning is necessary. For simple at-home cleaning, you can soak the jewelry in lukewarm water with a diluted neutral detergent and gently remove dirt with a soft brush. However, this method cannot be used for delicate gemstones such as pearls, emeralds, and opals, which are sensitive to water and detergents. For these delicate gemstones, professional cleaning is recommended. Expert cleaning can remove dirt using methods appropriate for the material and type of gemstone, restoring its original brilliance. By regularly entrusting your jewelry to professionals, you can cherish it for longer.
Glossary of Basic Terms for Jewelry Selection
The specialized terms you hear when choosing jewelry are very important for understanding its value and characteristics. Here, we explain basic terms that are helpful for selecting jewelry.
Carat: A unit of weight for gemstones, commonly used for diamonds. 1 carat equals 0.2 grams. The higher the carat weight, the rarer and more valuable the stone.
Clarity: A grading standard that indicates the transparency of a gemstone and the presence/extent of internal inclusions. There are multiple grades, from "Flawless (FL)" with almost no inclusions to "Included (I)" where inclusions are visible to the naked eye.
Cut: The most important factor affecting the brilliance of a gemstone, especially a diamond. It is evaluated based on three elements: proportion, symmetry, and polish, with grades ranging from Excellent to Poor.
Catch: The fastener used to secure earrings to the ear. There are various types, including silicone, metal butterfly backs, and screw backs.
Chain Types: Necklace chains come in various types depending on their design and strength.
Adzuki Chain: The most common type, consisting of interconnected oval links.
Venetian Chain: Features a design of interconnected square links, known for its flexibility.
Kippei Chain: A design where links are twisted and connected, giving it a voluminous appearance.
Ball Chain: A charming design made of small interconnected balls.
Screw Chain: The chain itself has a twist, reflecting light and sparkling.
Setting: The method of securing a gemstone to jewelry. Common types include "prong setting" which maximizes the stone's brilliance, "bezel setting" where the stone is surrounded by metal, and "pavé setting" where small stones are embedded into the metal.
Jigane (Base Metal): Refers to the precious metal part that forms the body of the jewelry. Gold, platinum, and silver are common.
Rhodium Plating: A coating applied to the surface of white gold and silver to maintain a beautiful white luster. It gives a platinum-like sheen and helps prevent tarnishing. However, it may wear off with use, requiring periodic maintenance.
Supervised by

This article is supervised by Masakatsu Oneda, Representative Director of "GINZA VINTAGE JEWELRY."
Drawing on over 15 years of experience in the branded goods business, he utilizes his cultivated aesthetic eye and market knowledge, now focusing his expertise on vintage jewelry to accurately convey the charm and background of valuable one-of-a-kind pieces.
