Education

The Ajediam Glossary

L

LaCloche

LaCloche is a French term used to describe a type of enameled watch with a hinged cover, resembling a small cloche or bell, popular in the early 20th century. LaCloche watches were coveted for their exquisite craftsmanship and design, often incorporating colorful enamel work and precious materials.

Lab-Created Gemstone

A lab-created gemstone is a synthetic gem produced in a laboratory setting rather than occurring naturally. These gems share physical and chemical properties with their natural counterparts but are created under controlled conditions, offering an ethical and sustainable alternative.

Labradorescence

Labradorescence is the optical phenomenon that produces a play of colors, typically iridescent flashes of blue and green, in labradorite gemstones. Labradorite is a feldspar gemstone known for its remarkable labradorescence and often exhibits vibrant colors, making it a popular choice in jewelry.

Labradorite

Labradorite is a feldspar gemstone known for its remarkable labradorescence, which produces vibrant iridescent flashes of color. This captivating phenomenon, along with its durability and unique appearance, makes labradorite a sought-after gemstone in jewelry design.

Labret

A labret is a type of body piercing jewelry designed to be worn on the lower lip, often featuring a flat backplate for comfort and stability. Labrets come in various styles and materials, and they have been used for adornment and cultural purposes for centuries.

Lace pin

A lace pin is a decorative pin used to fasten lace collars or other delicate fabrics, typically featuring a long pin stem and an ornamental head. These delicate and intricate pins have been popular throughout history, adding a touch of elegance and functionality to fine lace garments.

Lady-in-waiting brooch

A lady-in-waiting brooch is an ornamental brooch, often featuring gemstones and intricate metalwork, historically given as a gift to a lady-in-waiting. These brooches served as tokens of appreciation and were worn as decorative adornments by the recipients, signifying their important roles in royal courts and noble households.

Lahun treasure

The Lahun treasure is a collection of jewelry and artifacts discovered at the Lahun Pyramid in Egypt, dating back to the Middle Kingdom period. This treasure trove includes finely crafted jewelry, amulets, and other precious objects, offering valuable insights into the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Lalique, René (Jules) (1860 - 1945)

René Lalique was a renowned French jewelry designer and glassmaker, known for his innovative art nouveau creations and exquisite glasswork. His masterful designs often featured natural motifs and intricate detailing, and his legacy continues to influence modern jewelry design and the art of glassmaking.

Lamballe Necklace

The Lamballe Necklace is a famous diamond necklace once belonging to Princess Lamballe, a close friend of Marie Antoinette, with a tragic history. This opulent and historic necklace symbolizes the splendor and extravagance of the French monarchy during the 18th century, and it remains an iconic piece of antique jewelry associated with the royal court of Versailles.

Lambayeque style

Lambayeque style refers to a pre-Columbian art style from the Lambayeque region of Peru, known for its intricate gold jewelry and metalwork. This ancient artistic tradition produced exquisite pieces adorned with symbolic motifs, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the Lambayeque civilization.

Lamellar

Lamellar is a term used to describe a type of layered or plate-like structure, commonly found in certain gemstones and minerals. Gemstones exhibiting lamellar formations often display unique optical effects, and this specific structure can be a fascinating characteristic for gemologists and collectors to observe and study.

Landscape nephrite

Landscape nephrite is a type of ornamental stone, often used for carvings, featuring natural inclusions resembling landscape scenes. This intriguing gemstone variety evokes images of picturesque landscapes captured within the stone, making it a popular choice for creating decorative carvings and artistic expressions of nature's beauty.

Langdale rosary

The Langdale rosary is an ancient rosary discovered in the Langdale Valley, England, made of jet beads dating back to the Neolithic period. This historically significant artifact offers a glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of the Neolithic inhabitants of the region, providing valuable archaeological insights into the ancient past.

Langobardic rosary

The Langobardic rosary is a historical rosary with gold and garnet beads, dating back to the 6th to 8th centuries, found in the Lombardy region. This exceptional and intricate piece of early medieval jewelry showcases the skilled craftsmanship and artistry of the Lombardic people, reflecting their religious beliefs and social status during that era.

Lapel watch

A lapel watch is a type of small pocket watch designed to be worn on a lapel or a buttonhole, serving as both a timepiece and a decorative accessory. These charming and practical timepieces were popular during the Victorian and Edwardian eras, adding an element of sophistication and style to men's formal attire.

Lapidary

Lapidary is the intricate art of cutting, shaping, and polishing gemstones to enhance their beauty and reveal their unique features. Lapidaries use specialized tools and techniques to transform rough stones into exquisite gems for use in jewelry.

Lapidary Artist

A lapidary artist is an individual skilled in the intricate art of cutting, shaping, and polishing gemstones. These artisans possess a deep understanding of gem materials and use their expertise to create one-of-a-kind pieces that showcase the inherent beauty of each stone.

Lapis lazuli

Lapis lazuli is a vivid blue gemstone with golden pyrite inclusions, historically prized for its use in jewelry and art since ancient times. This prized gemstone has been treasured by various cultures throughout history for its rich color and association with spirituality, making it a favored choice for creating ornamental objects, amulets, and religious artifacts.

Lappet hatpin

A lappet hatpin is a hatpin with a decorative finial or embellishment at its end, used to secure women's hats and bonnets in the late 19th century. These fashionable and functional accessories were a popular part of women's fashion during the late Victorian and Edwardian periods, adding a touch of elegance and flair to their headwear.

Lariat Necklace

A lariat necklace is a unique style that lacks a traditional clasp and is worn by draping around the neck. Known for its flexibility and adjustability, the lariat necklace allows for creative styling, making it a popular choice for fashion-forward jewelry enthusiasts.

Lark Hill Hoard

The Lark Hill Hoard is a significant archaeological discovery of Bronze Age jewelry and artifacts found in England. This remarkable hoard contains a diverse range of objects, including metalwork, beads, and personal adornments, shedding light on the craftsmanship and societal practices of the Bronze Age inhabitants of the region.

Laser Drilling

Laser drilling is a gemstone treatment method that involves using a laser to remove or minimize inclusions within the stone. This precise technique enhances the gem's clarity, and while widely accepted, it is essential to disclose such treatments for transparency in the jewelry trade.

Lasque (lask or laske)

Lasque is a term used to describe a small, flat, polished diamond without a faceted surface, often used in antique jewelry. These uncut diamonds were popularly used in antique jewelry during the Georgian and Victorian eras, appreciated for their natural beauty and charm as they were found in nature, without the intervention of human artistry.

Latchet

A type of ornamental hook or clasp used in jewelry to fasten chains or necklaces. It is often designed with intricate patterns and motifs. Latchets add both functionality and decorative appeal to jewelry pieces.

Latten (Laton)

Latten, also known as Laton, is an alloy of copper and zinc used in jewelry making, known for its gold-like appearance. It has been historically used for creating various jewelry components due to its malleability and resemblance to gold.

Laub- und Bandelwerk

Laub- und Bandelwerk is an intricate decorative style in jewelry design, characterized by the use of leaf and strapwork patterns. This style was popular in historical jewelry, especially during the Renaissance period, and is often associated with elaborate and ornate designs.

Lava jewelry

Lava jewelry refers to jewelry made from volcanic lava stones, which are often porous and black, resulting in unique and textured pieces. The use of lava stones in jewelry provides an earthy and natural appeal, making each piece one-of-a-kind.

Lavalier

A lavalier is a type of pendant necklace, often featuring a gemstone or a pearl, suspended from a chain and worn as a decorative piece. This elegant and feminine style of necklace has been popular in various fashion eras and adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.

Lavalier Necklace

A lavalier necklace is a distinctive style featuring a pendant with a dangling element, adding a sense of movement and grace to the design. This type of necklace has enduring popularity for its timeless elegance and versatility in complementing various fashion styles.

Lavaliere

A lavaliere is a pendant or necklace featuring one or more dangling gemstones or ornaments. This classic jewelry style is cherished for its feminine and delicate appearance, making it a popular choice for both everyday wear and special occasions.

Lavernite

Lavernite is a trade name for a type of green variety of plagioclase feldspar used in jewelry as a gemstone. This rare and attractive stone exhibits a beautiful green coloration and may display iridescence, adding a captivating play-of-color to jewelry pieces.

Laxy diamond

The term "laxy diamond" is colloquially used to describe a low-quality diamond with visible inclusions and lackluster appearance. Despite its imperfections, such diamonds might still find use in jewelry as accent stones or in settings where brilliance is not the primary focus.

Lazo (Spanish)

Lazo is a term used for a lasso or bow-shaped jewelry piece, often worn as a decorative element. This design motif can be found in various jewelry forms, such as brooches, pendants, and rings, adding a sense of movement and fluidity to the piece.

Lazulite

Lazulite is a rare blue mineral used in jewelry as a gemstone, known for its deep azure color and occasional pyrite inclusions. Its intense blue hue and rarity make it a sought-after collector's gemstone, often featured in unique and high-end jewelry designs.

Lazurite

Lazurite is a deep blue gemstone often used as a synonym for lapis lazuli, composed mainly of the mineral lazurite. Lapis lazuli has been a prized gemstone for centuries, valued for its striking blue color and use in jewelry, decorative objects, and artworks.

Lead

Lead is a soft and malleable metal that has been historically used in jewelry-making for decorative purposes. However, its use in jewelry has decreased due to concerns about its toxicity. In modern times, lead is mostly avoided in jewelry to ensure the safety of wearers.

Lead Glass Filling

Lead glass filling is a gemstone treatment process designed to enhance clarity by filling surface-reaching fractures with lead glass. This treatment is employed to improve the overall appearance of gemstones, particularly in the case of lower-quality materials.

Lead glass

Lead glass is a type of glass containing lead oxide, often used in jewelry as imitation gemstones and for added brilliance. This glass variety, commonly known as "crystal," has higher refractive qualities than standard glass, making it sparkle and resemble gemstones.

Leaf

The leaf is a common motif in jewelry design, resembling the shape of a leaf. Often used as a decorative element, leaf designs can be found in various styles, ranging from delicate and naturalistic to stylized and abstract, adding a touch of nature-inspired elegance to jewelry.

Leatherette

Leatherette is a synthetic material resembling leather, commonly used in jewelry packaging. Its versatility and durability make it an ideal choice for creating elegant and cost-effective packaging solutions that complement the overall presentation of jewelry items.

Lechosos opal

Lechosos opal is a term used for opals with a milky or white body color, often with play-of-color that is not as vibrant as other opals. While not as colorful, these opals can still display captivating flashes, making them appealing choices for unique and subdued jewelry pieces.

Lechtzin, Stanley (1936- )

Stanley Lechtzin is an American lapidary artist known for his innovative stone-cutting techniques and intricate gemstone designs. Throughout his career, Lechtzin has significantly contributed to the field of contemporary jewelry and has inspired many with his artistic achievements.

Leda and the Swan Jewel

The "Leda and the Swan Jewel" is a famous jewelry piece depicting the mythological scene of Leda and the Swan. Often depicted in Renaissance and Baroque jewelry, this theme showcases the artistic craftsmanship of the era, with intricate detailing and symbolism imbued in the design.

Leech bead

Leech beads are small beads used in ancient jewelry, made by winding molten glass around a wire, producing a striped or spiraled pattern. These ancient beads hold historical significance, showcasing the early techniques and artistry of beadmaking in various cultures throughout history.

Leech ear-ring

A leech ear-ring is an ancient earring style featuring a beaded or granulated design, resembling the appearance of a leech. This unique and historic earring design reflects the craftsmanship and creativity of ancient jewelers in creating jewelry pieces with symbolic and decorative value.

Leech fibula

A leech fibula is an ancient fibula or brooch, often with granulated beadwork, inspired by the segmented body of a leech. These fibulae are artifacts of historical significance, showcasing the artistry and metalworking skills of ancient civilizations in crafting functional and ornamental jewelry pieces.

Lefébure, François (fl. 1635 - 63)

François Lefébure was a historical jewelry maker and goldsmith known for his work during the 17th century. His craftsmanship and designs have left a lasting impact on the field of antique jewelry, reflecting the artistic trends and influences of the Baroque period.

Legacy Jewelry

Legacy jewelry refers to pieces that have been passed down through generations within a family. These heirloom items hold sentimental value, often accompanied by stories and memories, making them cherished symbols of familial connections and enduring love.

Legionnaire ring

A legionnaire ring is a type of signet ring that typically features the emblem or symbol of a legion or military unit. It has historical significance and was often worn by members of ancient Roman legions to signify their affiliation. In modern times, legionnaire rings are sometimes used as decorative and meaningful jewelry pieces, reflecting a connection to the military or ancient Roman heritage.

Lemercier, Balthasar (fl. 1620 - 30)

Balthasar Lemercier was a skilled French goldsmith and jeweler who flourished during the early 17th century. He was known for his innovative jewelry designs, incorporating intricate metalwork and gemstone arrangements. Lemercier's creations were highly sought after by European nobility, and his legacy as a talented jeweler endures in the surviving pieces attributed to him.

Lemonnier

Lemonnier is a term used to describe a specific style of jewelry design that emerged during the Art Nouveau period. The style is characterized by its fluid and organic lines, often depicting natural elements like flowers, leaves, and vines. Lemonnier pieces typically exhibit a graceful and harmonious composition, reflecting the artistic influences of the time. Collectors and enthusiasts value Lemonnier jewelry for its artistic and historical significance.

Lennox jewel

The Lennox jewel is an exquisite piece of jewelry that once belonged to the Scottish noble family of Lennox. The jewel is renowned for its intricate craftsmanship and lavish use of gemstones, including diamonds, rubies, and emeralds. It is believed to have served as a decorative ornament and a symbol of status and prestige within the Lennox family. Today, the Lennox jewel stands as a remarkable example of historical jewelry design and craftsmanship.

Leontine

A leontine is a decorative chain or necklace that features a lion's head motif as its central element. This design was particularly popular during the Victorian era, and leontines were often made of precious metals like gold or silver. These chains were worn as fashion accessories or jewelry pieces and were favored by both men and women for their stylish and symbolic appeal. The lion's head on a leontine is associated with attributes like strength, courage, and royalty.

Lesotho diamonds

Lesotho diamonds are high-quality diamonds that originate from the Kingdom of Lesotho in Southern Africa. The country is known for producing large and exceptional diamonds with excellent clarity and color. Lesotho diamonds are highly valued in the gemstone market and have been the centerpiece of numerous exquisite jewelry pieces and collections worldwide.

Lesser George, The

The Lesser George is an esteemed order of chivalry associated with the British monarchy. It is a prestigious and exclusive honor bestowed upon individuals for their outstanding service to the crown and the nation. The Lesser George is typically represented as a small pendant or insignia featuring St. George slaying the dragon. As a symbol of honor, loyalty, and bravery, the Lesser George holds great significance among recipients and serves as a testament to their dedication to the country.

Letter jewel

A letter jewel is a type of personalized jewelry that gained popularity during the Victorian era. It typically consists of a pendant or brooch with a precious or semiprecious gemstone forming the shape of an initial or monogram. Letter jewels were often given as sentimental gifts or tokens of affection, and they held a special meaning for the wearer. Today, antique letter jewels are cherished as unique and sentimental pieces of jewelry that capture the essence of a bygone era.

Leubingen Treasure

The Leubingen Treasure is an archaeological find discovered in Germany, dating back to the Bronze Age. It consists of several valuable items, including gold jewelry, artifacts, and weaponry. The treasure's significance lies in its historical and cultural importance, providing valuable insights into the craftsmanship and material culture of the Bronze Age civilization. The Leubingen Treasure is a fascinating archaeological discovery that enriches our understanding of ancient societies.

Leuhusen chain

The Leuhusen chain is a prestigious and ornate ceremonial chain that holds historical importance in Swedish culture. It was commissioned by a Swedish nobleman, Jakob Leuhusen, during the 18th century. The chain is made of gold and features intricate links and decorative motifs, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the time. The Leuhusen chain is regarded as a national treasure in Sweden and serves as a symbol of nobility and tradition.

Leverback

A leverback is a type of earring fastening characterized by a hinged lever that snaps shut behind the earlobe. This secure and elegant design ensures that earrings stay in place while providing a stylish and comfortable option for jewelry enthusiasts.

Liberator diamond

The Liberator diamond is a renowned diamond with a remarkable history. It was discovered in the early 20th century in Africa and became known for its large size and exceptional quality. The diamond was later acquired by a group of Belgian businessmen who intended to use its proceeds to fund a hospital. However, during World War II, the diamond was hidden to protect it from Nazi confiscation. After the war, it was sold, and its proceeds finally fulfilled its intended purpose of financing the hospital, thus earning the name "Liberator" diamond.

Ligament pearl

A ligament pearl is a rare and fascinating natural occurrence in certain types of mollusks. When a mollusk sustains an injury, such as a tear in its mantle tissue, it secretes a substance that encapsulates the irritant and forms a pearl. The unique feature of a ligament pearl is that it attaches to the shell's ligament, unlike traditional pearls that form within the mollusk's body. Ligament pearls are prized by collectors and connoisseurs for their rarity and unusual origin.

Light of peace

The Light of Peace is an iconic jewelry piece with historical significance. It was created in the aftermath of World War II to symbolize hope, reconciliation, and peace. The pendant typically features a dove carrying an olive branch, representing peace, and is often crafted from precious metals like gold or silver. The Light of Peace jewelry became a meaningful symbol during the post-war era, reflecting humanity's desire for peace and a better world.

Lignite

Lignite is a type of coal appreciated for its suitability in jewelry carving due to its relatively soft and workable nature. While not as durable as other gem materials, lignite showcases unique textures and colors, making it a distinctive choice for artistic jewelry pieces.

Lily bead

A lily bead is a decorative bead or pendant that takes the form of a lily flower. The lily is a symbol of purity, virtue, and rebirth in various cultures, and the lily bead often carries these symbolic meanings. These beads are commonly used in jewelry, particularly in necklaces and bracelets, and are appreciated for their delicate and elegant appearance. Lily beads add a touch of grace and meaning to jewelry designs.

Lim, Auguste (1830 - 95)

Auguste Lim was a renowned French jeweler and designer who lived during the 19th century. He was known for his innovative and artistic approach to jewelry making, often incorporating elements of nature and fantasy into his designs. Lim's jewelry pieces were favored by aristocrats and celebrities of his time for their exquisite craftsmanship and unique style. Today, his surviving works are cherished as examples of exceptional 19th-century jewelry artistry.

Limavady treasure

The Limavady treasure is a collection of ancient gold jewelry and artifacts discovered in Northern Ireland. The treasure dates back to the Bronze Age and includes various decorative items, such as torcs, bracelets, and necklaces. The Limavady treasure is an important archaeological find, shedding light on the craftsmanship and artistic skills of the ancient civilization that once inhabited the region.

Lime dipper

A lime dipper is a small ladle-like utensil used for serving lime juice or slices. In the context of jewelry, a lime dipper may also refer to a pendant or charm shaped like a lime dipper, often made of precious metals. These pendants can be decorative and hold personal significance for individuals who enjoy tropical themes or appreciate the cultural symbolism associated with lime and lime juice.

Lime flask

A lime flask is a container used for holding and dispensing lime juice. It was historically employed on sailing ships to provide a source of Vitamin C and prevent scurvy among sailors. In the context of jewelry, a lime flask may refer to a pendant or charm resembling the historical lime flask, often crafted from precious metals. Such jewelry pieces can be admired for their nautical or historical significance.

Limoges enamel

Limoges enamel refers to a type of enameling technique originating in Limoges, France, known for its intricate and colorful designs. It involves fusing glass to metal and is often used in decorative arts.

Limonite

Limonite is a type of iron ore that can be yellow, brown, or black in color. It often forms botryoidal or stalactitic masses and is sometimes used as an ornamental stone in jewelry.

Limousin, LĂ©onard (c.1505 - c. 1577)

LĂ©onard Limousin was a renowned French enamel painter and sculptor during the Renaissance period, known for his intricate enamel work on copper and gold. His pieces are highly prized in the art and jewelry world.

Lincoln Sapphire

The Lincoln Sapphire is a famous blue sapphire with a rich history, believed to have belonged to King Edward IV of England. It is a rare and valuable gemstone, often featured in royal and historical jewelry.

Line bracelet

A line bracelet, also known as a tennis bracelet, is a flexible bracelet made of symmetrical set gemstones, typically diamonds. It is known for its elegant and continuous line of sparkling gemstones.

Linea Viaja jewelry

Linea Viaja is a contemporary jewelry brand that specializes in creating minimalist and modern designs inspired by travel and different cultures. Their pieces often feature geometric shapes and clean lines.

Link bracelet

A link bracelet is a type of bracelet made of individual links or segments that are connected to form a chain. It provides flexibility and comfort when worn, and it's available in various styles and metals.

Linnean pearl

The Linnean pearl, named after the Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus, is a rare and unique pearl formation that occurs when a foreign object is enclosed in the nacre of a mollusk, creating a pearl with a specific shape.

Linobate

Linobate refers to the process of coating a gemstone or glass with a layer of molten metal, creating a metallic sheen on the surface. This technique is often used to enhance the appearance of certain gemstones.

Lion jewel

The lion jewel is a prestigious award presented by the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths in London to individuals who have made significant contributions to the goldsmithing and jewelry industry.

Lip plug

Lip plugs are a form of body modification jewelry worn in stretched lip piercings. They are usually made of various materials, including wood, bone, or metal, and are often adorned with decorative carvings or engravings.

Liquidation

Liquidation refers to the sale of jewelry items at significantly reduced prices, often due to clearance, bankruptcy, or the need to quickly convert inventory into cash. Buyers can find exceptional deals during liquidation sales on a wide range of jewelry products.

Lithia (Lithium) emerald

The term "Lithia emerald" is a misnomer used historically for a rare variety of tourmaline that exhibits an intense green color. It does not actually belong to the emerald family but is still valued for its vivid green hue.

Lithium niobate

Lithium niobate is a crystal material known for its unique properties, including its use in certain types of optical and electronic devices. While not a gemstone, it plays a significant role in technology and scientific applications.

Littledale, H.A.P.

Henry A. P. Littledale was a renowned gemologist and author who made significant contributions to the study of gemstones and their properties. His works have been instrumental in the field of gemology.

Livery collar

A livery collar is a type of necklace or chain worn as a symbol of honor or allegiance, often bestowed by a noble or royal figure to show favor or loyalty. It may feature emblems, crests, or other decorative elements.

Lizard jewelry

Lizard jewelry includes pieces that are inspired by or designed in the shape of lizards. These designs may incorporate gemstones, enamelwork, or other materials to represent the reptile's distinctive features.

Lizardite

Lizardite is a type of serpentine mineral that is typically greenish in color and has a scaly or platy texture, resembling lizard skin. It is sometimes used as a lapidary material or included in decorative objects.

Loan

In the context of jewelry, a loan involves the temporary exchange of a valuable gemstone for a specified monetary value. This practice allows individuals to leverage the worth of their gemstones without parting with them permanently, providing financial flexibility.

Loch Buy Brooch

The Loch Buy Brooch is a famous Scottish brooch featuring a large citrine gemstone set in gold and surrounded by a cluster of smaller gems. It is a classic example of Victorian-era jewelry and a collector's item today.

Locket

A locket is a small, hinged pendant or charm designed to hold a keepsake, such as a photo, lock of hair, or other memento. Lockets often have sentimental value and are cherished as meaningful pieces of jewelry.

Locket ring

A locket ring is a ring with a compartment or space for holding a small keepsake, just like a traditional locket pendant. It offers a unique way to carry cherished memories and sentiments with you as part of your jewelry.

Lode

A lode is a rich deposit of ore found within the Earth, often containing valuable minerals and gemstones. Mining operations target these lodes to extract precious materials for use in various industries, including jewelry production.

Logan sapphire

The Logan sapphire is an exceptionally rare and exquisite blue sapphire, known for its impressive size and remarkable deep blue color. It has a fascinating history of ownership.

Londesborough brooch

The Londesborough brooch is an exceptional piece of antique jewelry, crafted centuries ago. It features intricate metalwork and is adorned with an array of captivating gemstones, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.

London Blue Topaz

London Blue Topaz is a deep blue variety of topaz prized for its rich color and clarity. Widely used in jewelry, this gemstone adds a touch of sophistication and vibrancy to various designs, making it a popular choice for both traditional and contemporary pieces.

Longchain

A longchain is a type of necklace characterized by its extended length, often reaching the waist or hips. It may be adorned with pendants or left plain for an elegant and elongating effect.

Loop-in-loop chain

The loop-in-loop chain is a chainmaille technique where individual loops are woven together, creating a flexible and visually appealing chain. This ancient and intricate method has been used for centuries in jewelry making.

Loop-terminal torc

The loop-terminal torc is a torc, a type of ancient neck ring, with decorative terminals featuring looped designs. It is a symbol of status and authority, often associated with ancient Celtic and Viking cultures.

Loose Stone

A loose stone refers to a gemstone that has not been set into a piece of jewelry. Jewelers often work with loose stones to create custom-designed pieces, allowing for greater creativity and personalization in jewelry crafting.

Lorgnette

A lorgnette is a distinctive pair of spectacles or opera glasses with a handle, often used as an elegant accessory in antique jewelry. It reflects a bygone era's fashion sensibilities and serves as both a functional and ornamental item.

Lost-wax process

The lost-wax process, also known as investment casting, is a technique used to create metal jewelry by casting a wax model into a metal mold. This method allows for intricate and detailed designs, making it popular among artisans.

Lothair, Crystal of

The Crystal of Lothair is a medieval rock crystal and gilt copper reliquary, believed to contain a relic of the True Cross. It is an extraordinary piece of craftsmanship, with intricate metalwork and religious significance.

Lotharingian jewelry

Lotharingian jewelry refers to the jewelry styles and artifacts dating from the Lotharingian period. These historical pieces offer valuable insights into the artistic and cultural heritage of the region.

Louis Treize enamel

Louis Treize enamel is a type of decorative enamelwork popular during the reign of Louis XIII of France, characterized by intricate designs and vibrant colors. This enameling technique is highly esteemed for its artistic beauty.

Loupe

A loupe is a small, handheld magnification tool used by jewelers and gemologists to closely examine gemstones and jewelry. Its precision and clarity aid in the detailed assessment of gemstone characteristics.

Loupe Clean

Loupe clean is a grading term indicating that a gemstone is free of visible inclusions when examined under 10x magnification using a loupe. Gemstones with this designation are highly valued for their exceptional clarity and transparency.

Love ring

A love ring is a ring style popularized during the Victorian era, often featuring the word "love" or sentimental motifs like hearts and flowers. These romantic rings served as tokens of affection and enduring symbols of love.

Lover's-knot ring

The lover's-knot ring is a symbolic ring design consisting of intertwined loops, representing eternal love and unity between two individuals. This timeless design has been cherished for centuries as a meaningful expression of love and devotion.

Low Relief

Low relief refers to a carving or design that is slightly raised from the background, creating subtle depth and texture. This technique is commonly used in jewelry design to add visual interest and detail without creating a pronounced three-dimensional effect.

Lozenge

A lozenge is a diamond-shaped gemstone cut, typically with 58 facets, designed to enhance the stone's brilliance and sparkle. This elegant cut is a popular choice for creating eye-catching and dazzling gemstone jewelry.

Lozenge cut

The lozenge cut is a diamond or gemstone cut with a diamond-shaped outline and a series of facets to optimize its brilliance and fire. This distinctive cut is often used for both diamonds and colored gemstones, showcasing their beauty.

Lozenge facet

A lozenge facet is one of the many small, diamond-shaped facets on the surface of a gemstone, designed to enhance its visual appeal. These facets play a crucial role in reflecting and refracting light, adding to the gem's allure.

Luckenbooth brooch

The Luckenbooth brooch is a traditional Scottish brooch, often shaped like a heart and adorned with symbols like a crown and thistles. This cherished brooch design is steeped in history and tradition, often exchanged as a token of love and commitment.

Lulls, Arnold (fl. 1600 - 20)

Arnold Lulls was a skilled jewelry artisan, known for his intricate metalwork and craftsmanship. His creations were highly sought after and are considered valuable pieces of art and historical artifacts.

Luminescence

Luminescence refers to the emission of light by a gemstone that is not caused by heat. This phenomenon is often observed in certain gemstones under specific lighting conditions, adding an enchanting quality to the stone's overall visual appeal.

Lunate

The lunate refers to a crescent-shaped gemstone, typically used as a decorative element in jewelry. This unique shape adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to jewelry designs, often seen in earrings and pendant settings.

Lunette

A lunette is a half-moon-shaped jewelry piece, often used as an ornament or a decorative component in various accessories. This versatile and eye-catching shape is found in earrings, brooches, and other jewelry items.

Lunula

The lunula is a crescent-shaped metal collar or necklace, often associated with ancient Celtic and Roman jewelry. This ceremonial jewelry piece was historically worn as a symbol of status and spiritual significance.

Luster

Luster refers to the visual quality and shine that emanates from the surface of a gemstone or mineral when illuminated. It is a crucial factor in assessing a gem's overall appeal and value in gemology.

Luster Enhancement

Luster enhancement is a treatment process applied to gemstones to improve their shine and reflective qualities. This method aims to enhance the visual appeal of gemstones by optimizing their surface brilliance, contributing to their overall attractiveness.

Lustre

Lustre refers to the shine, brilliance, and reflective quality of a gemstone's surface, resulting from light interacting with its microscopic structure. Gemstones with high lustre are highly valued for their captivating beauty and allure.

Lustreware jewelry

Lustreware jewelry refers to a type of jewelry adorned with lustreware, a type of ceramic glaze that creates an iridescent or metallic effect on the surface. Lustreware jewelry often features vibrant colors and unique patterns, making it an appealing choice for artistic and decorative pieces. This type of jewelry has a rich history and can be found in various cultures and time periods.

Luxury Brand

A luxury brand in the realm of jewelry is characterized by its commitment to exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. These brands are renowned for creating pieces that exemplify the pinnacle of design and are often associated with prestige and sophistication in the world of fashion.

Luxury Jewelry

Luxury jewelry refers to high-end, often bespoke, pieces crafted with exquisite materials and exceptional craftsmanship. These exclusive creations are prized not only for their monetary value but also for their artistic and design excellence in the realm of fashion and style.

Lynx sapphire

Lynx sapphire is a rare and unique variety of sapphire known for its distinct and striking cat's eye effect, also referred to as chatoyancy. This optical phenomenon is caused by needle-like inclusions that reflect light, creating a narrow band of light that moves across the gem's surface, resembling the eye of a lynx. Lynx sapphires are highly prized by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts for their exceptional beauty and visual appeal.

Lyte jewel

Lyte jewel is a term used to describe a type of illuminated or glow-in-the-dark jewelry. These jewels incorporate luminescent materials that absorb and store light energy from various sources and emit a soft glow in low-light conditions. Lyte jewelry comes in various forms, such as rings, pendants, and bracelets, and offers a captivating and enchanting glow that adds a touch of magic and uniqueness to any outfit or occasion.

Légaré, Gidéon (1615 - 76)

Gidéon Légaré was a notable Canadian silversmith and engraver. He was active in the late 17th century and is known for his exceptional craftsmanship in creating silver objects, including cutlery, tankards, and decorative pieces. His works are considered valuable artifacts of Canadian decorative arts and are often sought after by collectors.

Légaré, Gilles (b. c. 1610)

Gilles Légaré was a French jewelry artisan who lived around the early 17th century. He specialized in crafting intricate jewelry pieces using precious metals and gemstones. His designs often featured elaborate filigree work and exquisite gemstone settings, showcasing his exceptional skills as a jewelry maker. Today, his surviving pieces are treasured as historical examples of fine jewelry craftsmanship from that era.