The Ajediam Glossary

Hair jewelry refers to decorative pieces of jewelry that incorporate strands of human hair, adding a personal touch and sentimental value to the adornments.

A hair locket is a pendant or locket designed to hold a lock of hair, often as a sentimental keepsake, commemorating a loved one or serving as a cherished memento.

A hair net is a small netted accessory used to hold hair in place, often decorated with jewels, providing an elegant and practical solution for styling hair.

A hair ornament is any decorative piece used to adorn the hair, such as clips, combs, or tiaras, enhancing the overall hairstyle and adding a touch of sophistication.

A hairpin is a long, slender accessory used to hold hair in place, often featuring decorative elements, such as gemstones or intricate metalwork, for a stylish look.

A hair ring is a ring-style hair accessory that encircles a ponytail or bun, providing an elegant way to secure and embellish the hair for various formal or casual occasions.

A hair spiral is a coiled hair accessory used for securing hair in a twisted or bun style, offering a fashionable and practical way to create unique hairstyles.

Hair work refers to intricate designs made from woven or braided strands of human hair, showcasing the craftsmanship and sentimental value of the personalized creations.

A hairstone is a gemstone or jewel incorporated into a hair accessory or ornament, adding a touch of brilliance and luxury to the overall look of the hairstyle.

Half pearls are semi-spherical pearls that are flat on one side and often used in jewelry settings, imparting a lustrous and classic appeal to various jewelry pieces.

A half-hoop bracelet is a bracelet with a curved, semi-circular band, often adorned with gemstones, exuding elegance and sophistication in its design and craftsmanship.

A hallmark is a stamped mark on jewelry, indicating its purity, origin, and/or manufacturer, providing assurance of quality and authenticity to discerning customers.

A halo in jewelry refers to a circle of gemstones or diamonds surrounding a central stone, accentuating the center stone's brilliance and creating a stunning visual effect.

A hammer pearl is a natural pearl with a surface resembling hammer marks, making it a unique and prized pearl variant with an intriguing appearance and texture.

Hammering in jewelry-making is a technique of shaping metal by using a hammer, allowing for artistic and textured designs on metal surfaces, enhancing jewelry aesthetics.

Hancocks is a renowned British jewelry retailer, known for its high-quality jewelry pieces, offering exquisite craftsmanship and a diverse selection of premium jewelry.

A hand amulet is a protective charm or ornament in the shape of a hand, believed to bring luck or ward off evil, adding symbolic significance and spiritual value to the wearer.

Hand ornament refers to jewelry pieces designed in the shape of a hand, often with gemstone accents, serving as a unique and artistic expression of personal style and taste.

A handkerchief ring is a ring designed with a compartment to hold a small handkerchief, offering a charming and practical accessory that combines fashion with functionality.

Hanover jewels refer to a collection of precious gemstones and jewelry pieces that were part of the Hanoverian Crown Jewels, known for their historical significance and exceptional craftsmanship.

Hanover pearls are a type of cultured pearls known for their luster and round shape, often associated with jewelry from the Hanoverian era, representing timeless elegance and a symbol of wealth and royalty.

Hanseatic jewelry represents the traditional jewelry styles and techniques associated with the historical Hanseatic League and its member cities, reflecting a rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship passed down through generations.

Hardness in gemology refers to the resistance of a mineral or gemstone to scratching or abrasion and is measured on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, providing crucial information for gemstone durability and identification.

Hardstone is a type of durable and dense gemstone, often used for carvings, cameos, and decorative objects due to its ability to hold intricate details, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and artistic expression in the lapidary arts.

The Harlech Torc is an ancient Celtic neck ring, typically made of gold or other metals, and characterized by its elaborate twisted design and finials, representing a significant historical artifact and a symbol of ancient Celtic artistry.

Harlequin opal is a unique opal variety with a distinctive pattern of closely arranged, angular, and colorful patches, resembling the Harlequin costume, displaying a rare and captivating optical effect admired by gemstone enthusiasts and collectors.

A harlequin ring features a gemstone, typically an opal, with a harlequin pattern – a symmetrical arrangement of angular, contrasting color patches, showcasing a distinctive and eye-catching design often admired in fine jewelry pieces.

The harp-shaped fibula is an ancient brooch or pin used in ancient Rome and Greece, characterized by its harp-like shape and used to fasten garments, representing a significant archaeological artifact and a glimpse into ancient jewelry-making techniques.

A hat badge is a decorative emblem or pin worn on a hat or cap, often used to denote a person's affiliation with an organization or their rank or profession, serving as a stylish accessory and a symbol of identity or allegiance.

A hat band is a strip of fabric or decorative material that is wrapped around the base of a hat, adding ornamentation and often serving as a sizing element, enhancing the aesthetics of a hat and offering a touch of personalized style.

A hatpin is a long pin with a decorative head used to secure a hat to a person's hair, often adorned with gemstones or intricate metalwork, serving both a functional and decorative purpose, popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

A hawk jewel is a type of pendant or brooch from the late medieval period, featuring a hawk motif, and symbolizing nobility, falconry, and heraldry, reflecting the cultural and historical significance of falconry and the artistry of medieval jewelry.

Hawk's-eye, a blue-gray to blue-green gemstone, is a form of quartz with fibrous inclusions that give it a chatoyant effect, resembling a hawk's eye, admired for its unique optical effect and often used in cabochon cuts for jewelry pieces.

Haüyne is a rare and prized mineral, typically blue in color, and often used as a gemstone in jewelry due to its vibrant hue and attractive transparency, known for its scarcity and high desirability among gemstone collectors and connoisseurs.

A head bead is a bead or ornament typically placed at the top of a necklace or bracelet design, acting as a focal point or enhancing the overall aesthetics, adding an eye-catching element and serving as a transition between the clasp and the main beads.

A head ornament refers to various types of jewelry or decorative pieces worn on the head, including tiaras, hairpins, and circlets, often for special occasions, embodying elegance and sophistication, and enhancing the wearer's appearance and outfit.

In jewelry, the heart symbol represents love and affection and is commonly used in heart-shaped pendants, rings, and other sentimental jewelry pieces, symbolizing love and emotions, making it a popular choice for romantic gifts and expressions of affection.

A heart brooch is a brooch or pin featuring a heart-shaped design, often embellished with gemstones, pearls, or intricate metalwork, serving as a symbol of love and sentimentality, and a cherished accessory for expressing affection or celebrating special occasions.

Heart scarabs were ancient Egyptian amulets in the shape of a heart that were placed on the mummy to protect the heart during the journey to the afterlife, believed to provide protection and guidance to the deceased, reflecting ancient Egyptian religious beliefs.

A heart-shaped diamond is a diamond cut in the shape of a heart, symbolizing love and affection. It is a popular choice for romantic occasions and is often used in engagement rings and sentimental jewelry pieces.

Heat is the process of applying controlled heat to metals to alter their properties, such as hardness or color. This technique is commonly used in jewelry making to anneal, solder, or change the color of metals.

Heat treatment is the use of heat to enhance the color or clarity of gemstones, commonly seen in sapphires and rubies. This process can improve the appearance and value of gemstones while often being a permanent treatment.

The Hedeby Hoard is an archaeological find of Viking-age jewelry and artifacts, discovered in the 19th century in Hedeby, Germany. This hoard provides valuable insights into the craftsmanship and adornment of the Viking era.

The Hei-tiki is a traditional Maori neck pendant made from nephrite jade, representing ancestors and fertility. Worn as a taonga (treasure), it is a significant cultural and spiritual symbol for the Maori people.

Heishi is a type of jewelry made from finely ground and polished gemstones or shells, popular in Native American cultures. This technique involves stringing small, disc-shaped beads together, creating unique and intricate designs.

The helical or volute pattern is a spiral design often found in ancient jewelry and architecture, symbolizing growth and eternity. This captivating motif has been used throughout history, from ancient civilizations to modern jewelry design.

Heliodor is a yellow-green or golden variety of beryl used as a gemstone, known for its brilliance and clarity. This gemstone is cherished for its sunny hues and is often used in rings, pendants, and other exquisite jewelry pieces.

The Helios brooch is an ancient Greek brooch depicting the sun god Helios, typically crafted in gold and adorned with gemstones. This stunning artifact showcases the artistry and religious symbolism of ancient Greek jewelry.

Heliotrope, also known as bloodstone, is a type of gemstone typically dark green with red specks, often used for carvings and cameos. Its unique appearance and mystical associations have made it a popular choice throughout history.

The helix is a spiral or twisted pattern often seen in jewelry designs, inspired by natural forms like shells or DNA structures. This captivating design element adds a touch of elegance and movement to various jewelry pieces.

Hellenic jewelry refers to jewelry styles and artifacts from ancient Greece, showcasing exquisite metalwork and gemstone craftsmanship. This ancient jewelry represents an era of rich cultural heritage and remains a source of inspiration for modern designs.

Hellenistic jewelry encompasses jewelry produced during the Hellenistic period, characterized by a blend of Greek, Egyptian, and Eastern influences. This unique fusion of styles resulted in intricate jewelry pieces reflecting the diversity of the Hellenistic world.

A helmet is a protective headpiece worn as armor in ancient times, sometimes adorned with intricate metalwork and engravings. These elaborately decorated helmets serve as a symbol of protection and valor in historical contexts.

A hem pearl is a pearl that forms within the chamber of a mollusk's shell, often with a distinct, irregular shape. These natural pearls, prized for their unique and organic appearance, have been treasured in jewelry for centuries.

Hematite is a metallic gray to black mineral often used as a gemstone or for beads, known for its high iron content and luster. Its alluring dark sheen makes it a popular choice for creating stylish and elegant jewelry pieces.

The Heneage jewel is a historic jewelry piece, gifted to Sir Thomas Heneage in the 16th century, featuring elaborate gemstone settings. This exquisite jewel serves as a testament to the skilled craftsmanship and luxury of the Elizabethan era.

The Heracles knot is a decorative knot symbolizing strength and unity, often used in ancient Greek and Roman jewelry designs. This intricate knot pattern remains an enduring symbol of power and resilience in jewelry artistry.

A heraldic ring is a ring featuring a coat of arms, symbols, or crests, historically worn to signify family lineage and status. These rings serve as personalized emblems of identity and heritage for the wearer.

George Heriot (1563-1624) was a prominent jeweler and goldsmith in the court of King James VI and I, known for crafting exquisite jewelry pieces. His work epitomized the opulence and craftsmanship of the Jacobean era.

Herkimer diamond refers to a type of double-terminated quartz crystal that is found in Herkimer County, New York. These unique crystals have exceptional clarity and are prized by collectors and crystal enthusiasts for their bright sparkle and geometric shape. While not actual diamonds, they earned the "diamond" nickname due to their brilliance. Herkimer diamonds are often used in jewelry, meditation, and metaphysical practices.

Susanna Heron, born in 1949, is a prominent contemporary jewelry artist known for her innovative and artistic approach to jewelry design. Heron's work often blurs the line between traditional jewelry and sculptural art pieces, incorporating a wide range of materials and techniques. Her unique creations have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums worldwide, inspiring a new generation of jewelry artists to push the boundaries of the field.

Hessonite, also known as "cinnamon stone" or "gomed," is a variety of grossular garnet that displays a warm, reddish-brown to orange-brown color. This gemstone is treasured for its alluring earth tones and excellent luster. Hessonite is often used in various types of jewelry, including rings, pendants, and earrings, and is believed to possess metaphysical properties that promote vitality, courage, and creativity in the wearer.

The hexagon cut is a unique and less common gemstone cut characterized by its six-sided shape. This cut is typically applied to hard gemstones to showcase their brilliance and natural features. The hexagon cut is a popular choice for gem enthusiasts looking for distinctive and unconventional shapes for their jewelry pieces, adding a touch of modernity and individuality to the finished design.

Hiddenite, a rare green variety of spodumene, is a prized gemstone named after its discoverer, William Earl Hidden. Its delicate green color ranges from pale mint to a richer emerald hue, and its exceptional transparency makes it a valuable choice for jewelry. Hiddenite is believed to have calming and healing properties, making it a sought-after gemstone for those seeking emotional balance and spiritual growth.

Higa, a term originating from the Spanish language, refers to a type of ornamental setting in jewelry. In the Higa setting, gemstones are tightly mounted together with minimal metal exposure, creating a seamless, continuous surface. This technique is commonly used with smaller gemstones, such as melee diamonds, to create an intricate and captivating design. The Higa setting showcases the gemstones' brilliance and maximizes the visual impact of the jewelry piece.

High jewelry refers to exceptionally crafted and luxurious jewelry, often featuring rare and valuable gemstones. This category of jewelry is known for its exquisite craftsmanship, artistic design, and the use of the finest materials available.

The term "Hilliard jewel" refers to a specific type of ornate and finely crafted jewelry that was popular during the Elizabethan period. Often designed by Nicholas Hilliard himself, these jewels featured intricate miniature portraits, enamel work, and gemstone settings. Hilliard jewels were highly prized and were often given as gifts to nobility and members of the royal court. Today, surviving Hilliard jewels are considered valuable historical artifacts and collectors' items, offering a glimpse into the artistry and luxury of the Renaissance era.

Nicholas Hilliard was a renowned English goldsmith, painter, and limner, known for his exceptional miniature portraits and jewel-like creations. He served as the official limner (miniature painter) to Queen Elizabeth I and later to James I, leaving a significant impact on the art of miniature painting and jewelry design during the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras. Hilliard's works are treasured as both historical artifacts and exquisite examples of artistry in small-scale portraiture.

The hinge pearl is a type of pearl used in jewelry, particularly during the Victorian era. It refers to a pearl that is attached to a piece of jewelry using a hinge mechanism, allowing the pearl to swing or move freely. This design element added an element of dynamism and charm to jewelry pieces, often featured in necklaces, earrings, and brooches. The hinge pearl setting showcases the pearl's lustrous surface and natural beauty, creating an eye-catching and graceful jewelry piece.

Hippocamp jewelry features the motif of a mythical creature known as the hippocampus. The hippocampus has the upper body of a horse and the lower body of a fish or serpent, often depicted with flowing manes and fins. In jewelry, this motif is commonly used in rings, pendants, and bracelets, symbolizing strength, grace, and the untamed forces of nature. The hippocamp design adds a touch of fantasy and enchantment to jewelry pieces, appealing to those with a love for mythology and whimsical creatures.

Hippopotamus ivory refers to the teeth or tusks of the hippopotamus, which have been historically used in the creation of various ornamental objects, including jewelry. The ivory's rich, creamy color and smooth texture make it an appealing material for carving intricate designs. However, due to conservation concerns and wildlife protection laws, the use of hippopotamus ivory in modern jewelry is restricted, and sustainable alternatives are preferred for ethical and environmental reasons.

Historiated jewelry refers to pieces of jewelry that feature narrative or storytelling elements in their design. These designs often depict scenes from mythology, history, or literature, and they were particularly popular during the Victorian era. Historiated jewelry served as a means of expressing sentiments, commemorating events, or conveying hidden messages through symbolic imagery. These intricate and sentimental pieces are valued not only for their beauty but also for the historical context and emotional stories they convey.

In the context of jewelry and gemology, a hoard refers to a hidden or buried collection of valuable gemstones, jewelry, or precious metal objects, often intentionally concealed during times of unrest or war. Hoards discovered by archaeologists provide valuable insights into ancient civilizations' craftsmanship, trade networks, and cultural practices. The study and preservation of jewelry hoards contribute significantly to our understanding of history and the development of jewelry design and techniques over the centuries.

The term "Holbein George" refers to a specific style of pendant or brooch that features a miniature portrait within a decorative setting. This design, popular during the Renaissance period, was named after the artist Hans Holbein the Younger, who was known for incorporating miniature portraits into his jewelry designs. The Holbein George jewelry pieces were often worn as personal adornments or given as gifts to express affection and admiration, capturing the beauty and sentimentality of the Renaissance jewelry tradition.

Hans Holbein the Younger was a prominent German artist and portrait painter during the Renaissance period. His exceptional skills as a portraitist extended to jewelry design, where he created intricate and ornate pieces for wealthy patrons. Holbein's jewelry designs often featured delicate enamel work, miniature portraits, and intricate metalwork, showcasing the artistic and technical finesse of the Renaissance era. Today, surviving pieces of Holbein's jewelry are treasured as precious historical artifacts and masterpieces of Renaissance craftsmanship.

Holbeinesque is an artistic term used to describe a style of jewelry and art that emulates the characteristics and aesthetics found in the works of Hans Holbein the Younger. This style is prevalent in Renaissance jewelry and typically features intricate enamel work, finely detailed miniature portraits, and delicate metalwork. Holbeinesque jewelry designs exude elegance and sophistication, often combining rich colors and precious materials to create luxurious and timeless pieces that continue to inspire contemporary jewelry artists and collectors.

Wenceslaus Hollar was a renowned Bohemian etcher and engraver known for his exceptional skill in creating detailed and intricate prints. He made significant contributions to the art of jewelry design by producing engravings of jewelry pieces, which were later used as references for creating jewelry and ornamentation. Hollar's engravings captured the beauty and craftsmanship of various jewelry designs, providing a valuable historical record of jewelry styles from the 17th century and influencing jewelry makers and artisans of his time and beyond.

The Holy Thorn Reliquary is an exquisite medieval reliquary crafted to house a relic believed to be a thorn from the Crown of Thorns worn by Jesus Christ during the crucifixion. This reliquary, made in the early 1400s, is a masterpiece of goldsmithing, enameled with intricate designs and adorned with gemstones. The Holy Thorn Reliquary exemplifies the artistry and religious devotion of the medieval period, and it is now preserved in the British Museum, recognized as one of the most important surviving examples of medieval jewelry and metalwork.

The Honours of Scotland, also known as the Scottish Crown Jewels, are the royal regalia and ceremonial objects used during Scottish coronations and other significant state occasions. The Honours consist of several iconic pieces, including the Crown, the Sceptre, and the Sword of State. These treasures represent the nation's sovereignty and are of great historical and symbolic importance. The Honours of Scotland are displayed at Edinburgh Castle, where they are carefully preserved and protected, serving as a tangible connection to Scotland's royal and cultural heritage.

The hoop is a basic and classic style of jewelry, especially in the context of earrings and bracelets. Hoop earrings are circular or semi-circular in shape and are often worn close to the earlobe, coming in various sizes and materials. Hoop bracelets feature a continuous circular band that can be plain or embellished with gemstones or engravings. Hoop jewelry offers versatility and simplicity, suitable for both casual and formal occasions, making them enduring and timeless pieces that have remained popular throughout different fashion eras.

Hoop earrings are circular earrings that form a continuous hoop around the earlobe. These earrings come in various sizes and designs, ranging from simple and classic to bold and statement-making. They are a versatile and timeless accessory.

Hoop earring is a circular or semi-circular piece of jewelry designed to be worn on the earlobe. It is often made of metal and can vary in size and thickness. Hoop earrings are a classic and versatile jewelry accessory.

Hope Chrysoberyl is a rare and valuable variety of chrysoberyl gemstone that exhibits a distinctive alexandrite-like color change under different lighting conditions. The name "Hope" is likely derived from the famous Hope Diamond, and it adds allure to this gem.

The Hope collection refers to a specific set of jewelry pieces or gemstones that share a common theme or origin. Such collections are often curated with great care and may have historical, sentimental, or artistic significance.

The Hope Diamond is one of the world's most famous and valuable gemstones, known for its deep blue color and storied history. It is associated with legends and is said to carry a curse. The diamond is currently housed in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.

The Hope pearl is a famous historical gem that was part of the Hope family's jewelry collection. It is a large and lustrous natural pearl that has been passed down through generations and is now considered a precious heirloom.

The Hope Sapphire is a stunning blue sapphire gemstone that shares its name with the renowned Hope Diamond. While not as large as the Hope Diamond, the Hope Sapphire is an exquisite gem appreciated for its color and clarity.

Hopi jewelry refers to the traditional jewelry crafted by the Hopi Native American tribe. It is known for its intricate designs, often incorporating symbols and motifs with deep cultural and spiritual significance.

Horn is a natural material often used in jewelry making. It is derived from the horns of animals and can be shaped and polished to create unique and organic jewelry pieces.

A hornet pendant is a jewelry piece, usually made of metal, that features a design inspired by or depicting a hornet. It may be worn as a necklace or as an accessory on other jewelry items.

Erasmus Hornick was a notable Renaissance-era goldsmith known for his intricate metalwork and contributions to jewelry artistry. His creations are highly sought after by collectors and museums.

Hornstone is a type of microcrystalline quartz with a fine-grained and compact texture. It is commonly used in lapidary to create gemstones or ornamental objects due to its durability and attractive appearance.

A horse fibula is a decorative and functional brooch or pin used to fasten garments. It typically features a horse-shaped design and was prevalent in ancient times, particularly during the Roman era.

Horsehair jewelry is a type of jewelry that incorporates horsehair into its design. It can be braided, woven, or wrapped to create unique and sentimental pieces, often as bracelets or necklaces.

The horticular style refers to a specific design aesthetic in jewelry characterized by motifs inspired by plants, flowers, and botanical elements. This style often showcases intricate metalwork and gemstone settings that mimic natural forms.

Howlite is a white or light-colored gemstone often used as a substitute for other more expensive minerals. It is commonly dyed to mimic turquoise or lapis lazuli and is used in jewelry and decorative items.

Mary Lee Hu is a renowned contemporary jewelry artist known for her innovative work with metal, particularly in the field of fiber jewelry. Her creations have won numerous awards and are displayed in major museums worldwide.

Huaca is a term used by Middle American Indian cultures to describe sacred places or objects with spiritual significance. In modern times, it may also refer to jewelry or art inspired by these ancient traditions.

Huang is a Chinese term for yellow or yellowish gemstones. In Chinese culture, yellow is considered an auspicious and noble color, and yellow gemstones hold symbolic value and are often used in significant jewelry pieces.

Hummingbird jewelry features designs inspired by hummingbirds, showcasing their grace and beauty. These jewelry pieces may incorporate colorful gemstones or enamel work to represent the bird's vibrant plumage.

Hungarian enamel refers to a traditional enameling technique practiced in Hungary, where a metal surface is decorated with colorful vitreous enamel. Hungarian enamel jewelry is cherished for its exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs.

Hungarian jewelry refers to jewelry originating from Hungary, characterized by unique designs and often showcasing the country's cultural and historical motifs. Hungarian jewelry may incorporate traditional craftsmanship and locally sourced gemstones.

Hungarian opal is a variety of opal found in Hungary, known for its beautiful play-of-color and vibrant hues. It is treasured by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts for its uniqueness and origin.

The Hungarian Opal is a term that might refer to a specific and renowned Hungarian opal of exceptional quality, historical significance, or large size.

The Hunsdon collection is a notable assortment of jewelry pieces and gemstones that belonged to the Hunsdon family, possibly named after Henry Hunsdon, a prominent figure in history. The collection might showcase a variety of jewelry techniques and styles.

A hunt button is a decorative button often worn on hunting attire or used as a decorative element in equestrian-themed jewelry designs. These buttons typically feature hunting-related motifs, such as foxes, hounds, or riding equipment.

The Hunterston brooch is a specific brooch of historical significance, possibly named after a person or a place. Brooches of this nature might be characterized by unique designs and craftsmanship.

A hunting belt is a type of belt, often made of leather or other durable materials, designed to hold essential tools and equipment for hunting activities. Hunting belts may also serve as a fashion accessory with hunting-related embellishments.

Hyacinth is an antiquated term used to refer to reddish-orange or reddish-brown zircon gemstones. The term might be of historical significance, especially when describing gemstones from older texts or antique jewelry pieces.

Hyalite is a type of transparent opal with a glassy appearance. It is valued for its clarity and can be used as a gemstone in jewelry or as an ornamental specimen.

The Hyderabad Nizam's Collection is a renowned and historically significant jewelry collection belonging to the Nizams of Hyderabad, India. This collection might include precious gemstones, elaborate jewelry sets, and items of cultural heritage.

Hydrophane is a type of opal that has the ability to absorb water, causing its transparency to temporarily increase. This phenomenon makes hydrophane opals unique and sought after by collectors and jewelry designers for their captivating appearance.

The hydrothermal process is a method of creating synthetic gemstones by replicating the conditions under which natural gems are formed, often using water-based solutions. This process is employed to produce gems with qualities similar to their natural counterparts.