The Ajediam Glossary

Objects of vertu are small, often decorative items of artistic or cultural value, typically crafted with fine materials and craftsmanship. They can include snuffboxes, miniature portraits, and other luxury items. These objects hold historical significance and are often collectible due to their beauty and craftsmanship.

Objets trouvés is a French term meaning "found objects." It refers to items that have been found, often in nature or everyday life, and are used in art or jewelry making. These found objects can add a unique and organic element to jewelry designs, creating one-of-a-kind pieces.

Hubert Obry was a jeweler and artist known for his work during the 19th century. He is associated with creating intricate and artistic jewelry pieces. His designs reflect the craftsmanship and artistic trends of his era.

Obsidian is a natural volcanic glass known for its smooth, glossy texture and sharp edges when fractured. It is sometimes used in jewelry for its dark and lustrous appearance. This unique gemstone is prized for its striking appearance and can be shaped into various jewelry pieces.

Obus is a French term for a shell or projectile, often used in the context of antique military-themed jewelry. In jewelry design, antique pieces featuring obus elements can carry historical and cultural significance.

Occidental refers to something originating from the Western world, which may be relevant in the context of jewelry design and styles. Occidental influences can be seen in various jewelry designs and artistic motifs.

Occidental topaz may refer to topaz gemstones found in Western regions. It's a specific type of topaz with a potential regional association. These gemstones may exhibit unique qualities influenced by their geographic origin.

An Octagonal Cut is a gemstone cut featuring eight straight sides and eight angles, forming a distinctive octagonal shape. This cut style offers a balance between the traditional round cut and more angular shapes, providing a unique aesthetic in jewelry design.

Octahedrite is a type of meteorite known for its octahedral crystal structure. It may be of interest to collectors and gemologists. These meteorites possess a distinctive crystalline pattern and are highly sought after by collectors.

An octahedron is a geometric shape with eight triangular faces. It's used in gem cutting to maximize the brilliance of certain gemstones. The octahedral cut enhances the play of light in gemstones, creating stunning visual effects.

Odontolite is a fossilized tooth, often used in the creation of jewelry or decorative items. These ancient teeth, when used in jewelry, provide a fascinating link to prehistoric life and are prized by collectors and enthusiasts.

Oeuf de Naples is a French term meaning "Naples egg." It may refer to a specific style or design in jewelry or art associated with Naples, Italy. These artistic creations often carry cultural and historical significance, reflecting the aesthetics of Naples.

Offset Setting is a jewelry setting style where the gemstone is intentionally placed off-center. This design choice adds asymmetry and visual interest to the piece, creating a unique and dynamic focal point within the overall composition.

An oil pearl is a pearl that has been treated with oil to enhance its luster and appearance. Gemstone treatment is relevant here. These pearls undergo treatment to improve their visual appeal, making them more attractive in jewelry.

Oiling is a gemstone treatment process involving the use of oils to enhance a stone's clarity by filling surface-reaching fractures. This practice is commonly applied to emeralds and other gemstones to improve their visual appeal and overall quality.

Ojime is a type of small bead or toggle used in traditional Japanese kimono cords. They are often intricately carved and can be collectible items. Ojime beads play a functional and artistic role in traditional Japanese clothing and are appreciated for their craftsmanship.

The Old European Brilliant is an early version of the round brilliant cut, characterized by a smaller table, higher crown, and larger facets. This historic diamond cut reflects the evolving techniques in gem cutting during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Old European Cut is a vintage diamond cut that gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for its distinctive appearance, it features a smaller table, higher crown, and larger facets, reflecting the craftsmanship of its era.

The old mine cut is a type of diamond cut that was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. It has a distinctive antique look with a cushion-shaped outline and larger facets. Old mine cut diamonds are highly sought after by antique jewelry enthusiasts for their unique charm.

An old mine emerald refers to emeralds that have been cut in a vintage or antique style, typically with a cushion or rectangular shape with step-cut facets. These emeralds evoke the elegance of a bygone era and are favored for their classic appeal.

Olivine is a green mineral often used as a gemstone, particularly in peridot. It's important in gemology and jewelry design. Olivine, commonly found in peridot, displays a vibrant green hue that is beloved by gem enthusiasts and jewelry designers alike.

Olmec jewelry refers to the jewelry produced by the ancient Olmec civilization of Mesoamerica. It's of historical and archaeological significance. Olmec jewelry provides valuable insights into the artistic and cultural achievements of this ancient civilization.

Onyx is a type of banded chalcedony that is often used in jewelry for its striking black and white appearance. Onyx is valued for its contrasting colors and is commonly used in elegant jewelry designs.

An Onyx Cameo is a carved image, often a portrait, created on a black onyx background. This intricate art form, dating back centuries, showcases the craftsmanship of the carver and adds a touch of classical elegance to antique jewelry pieces.

Oorijzer is a Dutch term for an ornate headpiece or hair ornament traditionally worn by women in the Netherlands. These elaborate ornaments have cultural and historical significance in Dutch traditional attire.

Opal is a type of gemstone known for its striking play-of-color, which involves vibrant flashes of various colors as the gem is viewed from different angles. This phenomenon is caused by the refraction of light through tiny silica spheres within the opal. Opals are prized for their unique beauty and can come in various colors and patterns. They are often used in jewelry.

Opal agate is a variety of agate that contains opal inclusions. It combines the distinctive banding patterns of agate with the colorful play-of-color seen in opals. This unique combination creates visually stunning gemstones that are often used in jewelry and decorative objects. Opal agate is valued for its striking appearance and can come in various colors and patterns.

An opal doublet is a composite gemstone that consists of a thin layer of precious opal bonded to a backing material, usually common opal or black glass. The purpose of creating a doublet is to enhance the appearance and durability of the opal. The thin opal layer displays the characteristic play-of-color, while the backing provides support. Opal doublets are a cost-effective way to enjoy the beauty of precious opal in jewelry.

Opal matrix refers to opal that is found within its host rock or matrix. Unlike solid opal, which is entirely composed of opal material, opal matrix is a combination of opal and surrounding rock or mineral. This type of opal often exhibits unique patterns and colors due to its association with the matrix. Opal matrix is used in both jewelry and lapidary arts to create one-of-a-kind pieces.

Opalescence is a visual effect seen in some gemstones, particularly opal, where they exhibit a milky or iridescent glow. This effect is caused by the scattering of light by microscopic structures within the gem. Opalescence is highly prized for its ethereal and mesmerizing appearance, making opalescent gemstones popular choices for jewelry and collectors.

Opaline glass is a type of translucent or semi-opaque glass that resembles the appearance of precious opal. It is often used in the production of decorative glassware, such as vases and lampshades, due to its attractive play-of-color and opalescent quality. Opaline glass can come in various colors and is known for its delicate and elegant appearance.

Opalite is a man-made glass material that is designed to mimic the appearance of opal. It is often used in jewelry crafting due to its affordability and the ability to create a colorful, opalescent look. While not a genuine gemstone, opalite can be an attractive alternative for those seeking the opal's distinctive play-of-color in their jewelry designs.

Opalization is the lapidary process of turning wood or bone into opal-like material. This creative technique allows artisans to transform non-traditional materials into unique and colorful gemstone alternatives, expanding the possibilities in jewelry design.

Opaque refers to the visual property of a material that does not allow light to pass through it. In the context of gemstones and minerals, opaque specimens are not transparent or translucent; they are solid and do not transmit light. Opaque gemstones, such as jade or turquoise, are valued for their unique colors and patterns despite their lack of transparency. Opaque gemstones are often used in jewelry and carvings.

Open Pit Mining is a mining technique characterized by the extraction of valuable minerals through the removal of a large quantity of overburden. This method is commonly used for deposits close to the Earth's surface, allowing efficient access to resources.

An open setting is a jewelry setting technique where gemstones are held in place by prongs or other mechanisms that expose a significant portion of the gem's surface to light. This setting style allows for maximum light penetration, enhancing the brilliance and play-of-color of gemstones, such as opals. Open settings are commonly used for gemstone rings and earrings to showcase the beauty of the stones.

Openwork is a design element in jewelry where portions of the metal are cut away or pierced to create decorative patterns or open spaces. This technique adds intricate detail and lightness to jewelry pieces. Openwork designs can be found in various types of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and brooches. The openwork style can be both delicate and striking, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the jewelry.

Opera Length refers to a necklace that falls below the bust, typically around 28 to 36 inches in length. This longer necklace style allows for versatile and dramatic styling options, making it a classic choice for formal and elegant occasions.

An operculum is a small, protective lid or flap-like structure found in some mollusks, particularly snails and certain marine gastropods. These opercula function to seal the shell's aperture when the animal withdraws into its shell. In some cultures, opercula have been used in jewelry and as ornamental objects due to their unique shapes and patterns. The use of operculum in jewelry is a niche practice with a focus on natural beauty.

The Oppenheimer Diamond is a famous diamond with a remarkable history. It was discovered in the Premier Mine in South Africa, and it weighed 253.7 carats in its rough form. After cutting, it became a 68.8-carat, cushion-shaped diamond of exceptional quality. Named after Sir Ernest Oppenheimer, a key figure in the diamond industry, this diamond is known for its exceptional color and clarity. It is considered one of the world's most valuable diamonds.

The Optical Center in a gemstone is the point where light travels most slowly, affecting its overall brilliance and visual appeal. Gemologists often consider the optical center when evaluating and assessing the quality of a gem's cut.

Opus interrasile is a Latin term used in jewelry design and metalwork. It refers to a technique where metal sheets are intricately cut or pierced to create openwork patterns. This technique has been used historically in jewelry, particularly during ancient Roman and Byzantine times, to create elaborate and decorative metal pieces. Opus interrasile requires great skill and precision in metalworking to achieve intricate and aesthetically pleasing results.

The Orange Pearls is a term used to describe a famous collection of natural pearls known for their exceptional color. These pearls, as the name suggests, exhibit a vibrant orange hue. They are highly prized for their rarity and beauty and have been used in creating exquisite pearl jewelry. Pearls with unique and unusual colors, such as orange, are particularly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs of fine pearls.

In jewelry design, an orb refers to a spherical or ball-shaped gemstone or ornament. Orbs can be made from various materials, including gemstones, glass, or metals, and they are often used as decorative elements in jewelry, such as pendants or charms. The term "orb" is also used symbolically in jewelry to represent completeness, unity, or the celestial sphere. Orbs can add a touch of elegance and symbolism to jewelry designs.

Orbicular jasper is a type of jasper characterized by distinctive circular or orb-like patterns within the stone. These circular patterns can vary in color and size and create visually captivating gemstones. Orbicular jasper is often used in jewelry and lapidary work to create unique and eye-catching pieces. It is prized for its natural beauty and the artistic challenge it presents to lapidaries and jewelry designers.

The Royal Orbs is a reference to a set of ceremonial orbs used in the British royal regalia. These orbs are symbolic objects representing the sovereignty of the monarch. They are typically made of precious metals and adorned with gemstones, including a cross at the top. The Royal Orbs are an integral part of the British crown jewels and are used during the coronation ceremony. They hold great historical and symbolic significance in the monarchy.

In the context of jewelry and decorative arts, the term "order" can refer to a specific design style or architectural order that is characterized by particular proportions, motifs, and ornamentation. Different orders, such as the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders, have influenced decorative arts and jewelry design, particularly during periods like Neoclassicism. The use of these orders in jewelry design reflects the broader artistic movements of their respective eras.

Ore is a naturally occurring rock or sediment that contains valuable minerals. In the mining industry, identifying and extracting ore deposits is the fundamental process that leads to the production of precious metals, gemstones, and other valuable resources.

Orfèvrerie is a French term that translates to "goldsmith's work" or "metalwork," specifically in the context of fine metalwork and craftsmanship. It encompasses the creation of intricate and ornate objects, including jewelry, silverware, and other decorative items, often crafted from precious metals. Orfèvrerie reflects the high level of skill and artistry required in metalworking and is associated with the creation of exquisite and valuable pieces.

Organic Design in jewelry refers to design elements inspired by natural forms and shapes. Embracing asymmetry and irregularity, organic design celebrates the beauty of imperfection, creating pieces that resonate with the harmonies found in the natural world.

Organic Gems are derived from living organisms, such as pearls and amber. These gems possess a unique charm, as their formation involves natural processes within living organisms, adding a touch of nature's beauty to jewelry designs.

Organic Inclusions are inclusions within a gemstone that originated from living organisms. These natural inclusions, such as plant material or fossils, add a distinctive character to the gem, offering insights into its geological history and formation process.

In the world of pearls, "orient" refers to the iridescent and colorful play-of-color seen on the surface of some pearls. This optical effect is caused by the interaction of light with the layers of nacre (mother-of-pearl) that make up the pearl's surface. Pearls with a strong orient are highly valued for their shimmering and captivating appearance, adding to their overall beauty and desirability in pearl jewelry.

Oriental refers to a style or design that is characteristic of the Eastern world, often associated with Asian cultures. In jewelry, it may encompass designs, motifs, or gemstones inspired by the East. Oriental jewelry often features intricate patterns and vibrant colors influenced by Eastern aesthetics.

Oriental almandine is a variety of garnet known for its deep red color. It is often used in jewelry and is prized for its brilliance and luster. Almandine garnets, including Oriental almandine, are treasured for their rich, ruby-like hues and are commonly used in various types of jewelry.

Oriental amethyst is a type of amethyst gemstone with a purple color. It can be used in jewelry, and its quality is assessed based on factors like color, clarity, and cut. Oriental amethyst is valued for its deep purple tones and is often incorporated into rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Oriental aquamarine is a variety of aquamarine, a blue-green gemstone. It is appreciated for its soothing color and is often used in jewelry, especially in designs inspired by Eastern aesthetics. Oriental aquamarine's serene hue makes it a popular choice for creating elegant jewelry pieces.

Oriental chrysolite typically refers to peridot, a green gemstone. It has been used in jewelry for centuries and is known for its vibrant green hue. Chrysolite gemstones, including Oriental chrysolite, are favored for their fresh, grassy green color, making them sought-after choices in jewelry design.

Oriental emerald is a term that may refer to emeralds of Eastern origin, such as those from countries like Colombia or Zambia. Emeralds are prized for their rich green color and are often used in high-end jewelry. Oriental emeralds, known for their lush green hues, are cherished for their beauty and rarity.

Oriental pearl refers to pearls that originate in the Eastern hemisphere, including regions like the Persian Gulf and the South China Sea. These pearls have been used in jewelry for centuries and come in various shapes and colors. Oriental pearls, prized for their natural luster and iridescence, are renowned for their beauty.

Oriental topaz is a type of topaz gemstone, which can vary in color. It is used in jewelry and is evaluated based on factors like color, clarity, and size. Oriental topaz's diverse color palette, including warm amber tones and vibrant pinks, makes it a versatile choice for jewelry crafting.

In jewelry, an orle is a decorative border or edge that can be found on various items, such as brooches, pendants, or rings. It adds an ornamental touch to the design. The orle's intricate detailing enhances the visual appeal of jewelry, making it a popular choice for embellishing various pieces.

The Orlov Diamond, also known as the Orloff Diamond, is a famous blue diamond with a fascinating history. It is one of the world's most renowned gemstones and has been part of various jewelry pieces throughout its existence. The Orlov Diamond's deep blue color and storied past make it a symbol of rarity and prestige.

Ormolu is a term used in decorative arts and jewelry to refer to gilded bronze or brass. It involves applying a layer of gold onto metal surfaces, creating a luxurious appearance. Ormolu's intricate gilding technique imparts opulence and opulence to various artistic and jewelry creations.

Ornament refers to decorative items, often worn as accessories. In the context of jewelry, ornaments encompass a wide range of pieces designed for adornment, expressing individual style and complementing various fashion choices.

Orthoclase is a mineral commonly used as a gemstone in jewelry. It is known for its varying colors, including shades of pink, white, or green, and is used in various types of jewelry pieces. Orthoclase's diverse color range allows jewelry designers to create captivating pieces with a spectrum of hues.

Louis Osman was a notable jewelry designer known for his innovative and artistic creations. His work has left a lasting impact on the world of jewelry design and craftsmanship. Louis Osman's artistic legacy continues to influence modern jewelry designers, inspiring them to push creative boundaries.

The Crown of Otto the Great is a historical artifact that was worn by Otto I, Holy Roman Emperor. While not a piece of jewelry per se, it holds immense historical and cultural significance as a symbol of authority and power. The Crown of Otto the Great serves as a remarkable testament to medieval craftsmanship and symbolism.

Ottonian jewelry refers to the jewelry styles and designs associated with the Ottonian period, which was during the reigns of the Ottonian emperors in medieval Europe. These pieces often featured intricate metalwork and gemstones. Ottonian jewelry reflects the artistry and opulence of a bygone era.

Ouch is a term sometimes used in the jewelry industry to describe a type of setting used to secure gemstones. An "ouch setting" typically involves prongs or settings that hold the gemstone in place securely. Ouch settings are essential for protecting and showcasing valuable gemstones in jewelry design.

Outreach Mining is a sustainable mining practice that involves community engagement and environmental responsibility. By prioritizing ethical considerations and collaborating with local communities, this approach seeks to mitigate the environmental impact of mining activities.

Outreach Programs in the context of jewelry and mining are initiatives aimed at engaging with local communities for ethical and sustainable mining practices. These programs prioritize social responsibility, environmental conservation, and positive community impact.

An Oval Cabochon is a gemstone cut in an oval shape with a smooth, rounded, and polished surface. This cabochon cut enhances the stone's natural colors and textures, offering a classic and timeless option for creating elegant and versatile jewelry pieces.

The Oval Cut is a gemstone or diamond cut characterized by its elliptical shape. With its elongated silhouette, the oval cut offers a graceful and flattering appearance, making it a popular choice for various jewelry designs.

Overburden refers to the layer of soil and rock that covers a mineral deposit. In mining, the removal of this layer is a crucial step to access and extract valuable minerals and gemstones from beneath the Earth's surface.

Overhead Lighting is lighting from above, often used in jewelry showcases to highlight the brilliance and details of gemstones. This lighting arrangement is crucial in creating an inviting and visually appealing display for customers in jewelry stores.

In jewelry making, overlay refers to a technique where one layer of metal is placed over another to create a decorative design. This method is often used to add intricate patterns or contrasting colors to jewelry pieces. Overlay is a versatile technique that allows jewelers to achieve stunning visual effects and texture.

Overtone refers to additional colors seen in a pearl's iridescence beyond its primary body color. These subtle hues contribute to the pearl's unique beauty and are essential considerations in the grading and certification of pearl quality.

Owl's-eye agate is a type of agate with distinctive circular or concentric bands that resemble the eye of an owl. This gemstone is valued for its unique appearance and is used in jewelry and lapidary work. Owl's-eye agate's captivating concentric patterns make it a sought-after material for crafting distinctive jewelry.

Oxidation is the process of a metal reacting with oxygen, resulting in a change of color or corrosion. In the context of jewelry metallurgy, managing oxidation is crucial to maintain the appearance and longevity of metal components in diverse pieces.

Oxidation in jewelry refers to the natural process where metals react with oxygen or other elements in the environment, leading to a change in their surface color or appearance. This patina is sometimes intentionally created for aesthetic purposes. Oxidation in jewelry design adds depth and character to metalwork.

Oxidized Silver is silver that has undergone a controlled oxidation process to achieve a darker appearance. This intentional oxidation creates a patina on the silver surface, adding depth and character to the metal, especially in vintage and artisanal jewelry.

The Oxus armlet is an ancient piece of jewelry dating back to the Achaemenid Empire. It is a gold armband adorned with intricate animal motifs and gemstones. This historical artifact provides insights into ancient jewelry craftsmanship. The Oxus armlet symbolizes the exquisite craftsmanship and artistic expression of its time.

The Oxus treasure is a collection of ancient jewelry and artifacts discovered in the region of the Oxus River (modern-day Amu Darya). It consists of gold and silver objects, including jewelry, that date back to the Achaemenid period. The Oxus treasure offers a glimpse into the opulence and sophistication of ancient civilizations.

An oyster-shell pendant is a type of pendant that incorporates a piece of oyster shell into its design. These pendants often showcase the natural beauty of the shell, which can vary in color and pattern. Oyster-shell pendants celebrate the organic elegance of marine materials, making each piece unique and visually captivating.