The Ajediam Glossary

An ID bracelet is a type of jewelry worn to display personal identification information. It often includes the wearer's name, emergency contact details, or other vital medical information, serving as a practical accessory for safety purposes.

An IHS pendant features the monogram "IHS," which is a Christogram representing the name of Jesus Christ. It is often used as a religious symbol in Christian jewelry and carries spiritual significance for those who wear it.

The term "Ice Diamond" is used to describe a highly transparent and colorless diamond, often resembling the clarity and purity of ice. These diamonds are prized for their exceptional brilliance and are popular choices for engagement rings and other high-end jewelry.

The "Ichtus," also known as the "Jesus fish," is a symbol commonly used by early Christians. It consists of two intersecting arcs resembling a fish. The Ichtus holds religious significance and is often associated with Christianity and its history.

An icon is a religious work of art, typically a painting, found in Orthodox Christianity. Icons are considered sacred and are venerated by believers. They are characterized by their distinctive style, symbolism, and role in devotional practices.

Iconic jewelry encompasses designs that are widely recognized and have a significant impact on the world of fashion and style. These pieces often become timeless classics, symbolizing eras and influencing trends in the jewelry industry.

An iconographic ring features intricate designs or symbols with religious or mythological significance. These rings often depict saints, deities, or other religious figures, and they carry both decorative and spiritual value for the wearer.

Ideal cut is a specific diamond cutting style designed to maximize the stone's brilliance and sparkle. Diamonds cut to ideal proportions reflect light optimally, creating a stunning play of light and enhancing their overall visual appeal.

Idocrase, also known as Vesuvianite, is a mineral that forms in various colors, such as green, brown, yellow, and blue. It is commonly used in jewelry and has a vitreous luster. Idocrase gemstones are known for their brilliance and attractive colors.

The Idol's eye is a famous diamond known for its unique blue hue, exceptional clarity, and large size. It is a type IIb diamond, which means it contains traces of boron that contribute to its blue color. The Idol's eye is highly valued among collectors.

Igmerald is a misspelling of "Emerald," which is a precious green gemstone known for its rich color and historical significance. Emeralds are highly prized and have been used in jewelry and royal adornments for centuries.

Ikhoko is a type of beadwork originating from West Africa. It is a traditional craft where beads are woven into intricate patterns to create jewelry and adornments. Ikhoko beadwork has cultural and aesthetic importance in the region.

An illusion setting is a jewelry design technique that uses metalwork or prongs to make a gemstone appear larger than its actual size. This technique enhances the stone's visual impact, giving the illusion of a larger, more dazzling gem.

An imitation or artificial pearl is a man-made product designed to mimic the appearance of natural pearls. These pearls are created through various processes using materials like glass or plastic and are a cost-effective option for pearl jewelry.

Imitation jewelry refers to pieces made from non-precious materials, designed to resemble genuine jewelry. These affordable alternatives allow individuals to achieve a desired look without the expense of precious metals and gemstones.

An imitation gemstone is a synthetic or man-made stone that resembles a natural gemstone but is chemically different and less valuable. Imitation gemstones are often used as affordable alternatives to their natural counterparts in jewelry.

The Imperial Diamond, also known as the Victoria Diamond or the Great White Diamond, is one of the largest diamonds ever discovered. It weighed about 457 carats in its rough form and was later cut into smaller gemstones. Its current whereabouts are unknown.

The Imperial Crown, also known as the Reichskrone, was the crown used for the coronation of German emperors. It was a symbol of imperial power and is considered an important historical artifact rather than a piece of jewelry for personal adornment.

The Imperial State Crown is one of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom, worn by the British monarch during the State Opening of Parliament. It is adorned with numerous precious gemstones, including the famous Cullinan II diamond.

Imperial jade, also known as Type A jade, is the finest quality jadeite with an intense green color. It is highly valued in Chinese culture and is often used to create exquisite jewelry pieces, especially in the form of jade bangles and pendants.

Inca jewelry refers to the adornments and ornaments crafted by the ancient Inca civilization of South America. It typically included pieces made of gold, silver, and other materials, displaying intricate designs and symbols of religious significance.

Incised refers to a carving or engraving technique where the design is cut into the surface of a gemstone or metal. This method allows for intricate detailing and decorative elements in antique jewelry pieces.

Inclusions are internal or external imperfections or foreign materials present in a gemstone. They may affect the gemstone's clarity and overall appearance. Inclusions are crucial in gemological assessments as they impact the stone's value and durability.

Incrustation is a decorative technique in jewelry making where gems, enamel, or other materials are set into the surface of a metal piece to create intricate patterns or designs. This technique adds ornamental value and enhances the overall appearance.

The India(n) cut is a gemstone cutting style that originated in India. It typically features a flat base, rose-cut crown, and may have numerous small facets on the pavilion. The cut is used for various gemstones, and it has a historical significance dating back centuries.

Indian jewelry made in the United States is influenced by Native American and Indigenous designs. It often features sterling silver, turquoise, coral, and other natural materials. Native American artisans craft unique pieces that carry cultural and spiritual significance, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Indian jade refers to jadeite or nephrite that is sourced from India. It is valued for its beautiful green hues and is often used in traditional Indian jewelry pieces like bangles, pendants, and beads. Indian jade is cherished for its cultural significance and healing properties.

Indian jewelry encompasses a wide range of jewelry styles and designs that originate from the Indian subcontinent. It reflects the rich cultural heritage and is often adorned with gemstones, intricate metalwork, and symbolic motifs. Indian jewelry includes items like necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings, crafted using traditional techniques.

Indian topaz is a type of topaz that originates from India. It is known for its warm, golden-yellow color, which can range from pale to deep amber. Indian topaz is often faceted and used in various jewelry pieces, providing a touch of elegance and sophistication to the wearer's ensemble.

Indian-trade silver jewelry refers to silver jewelry crafted by Native American artisans for trade with European settlers and traders. The jewelry often incorporates traditional Native American designs and symbols, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship and cultural heritage of the Indigenous people.

Indicolite, also known as indigolite, is a blue variety of tourmaline. It displays a range of blue shades, from light to dark, and is highly valued for its vivid color. Indicolite gemstones are used in various jewelry pieces, such as rings, pendants, and earrings, adding a touch of captivating blue to the jewelry collection.

Industrial diamonds are diamonds used for industrial purposes due to their hardness and abrasive properties. These diamonds play a crucial role in various industrial applications, including cutting, grinding, and drilling hard materials like stone and metal.

Infrared spectroscopy is a technique used in gemstone treatment analysis, involving the measurement of how gemstones interact with infrared radiation. This method provides valuable insights into the gem's composition and any treatments it may have undergone.

An ingot is a mass of metal, typically a bar or block, obtained after casting or hammering the metal into a specific shape. In metallurgy, ingots serve as a convenient form for transporting and further processing metals in various industrial applications.

An inlaid bead is a type of bead where different materials, such as gemstones, metals, or other materials, are set into a base material to create decorative patterns or designs. The process involves precise craftsmanship to achieve intricate and visually appealing beadwork used in various jewelry designs.

Inlay is a jewelry design technique where gemstones are set into a recessed surface, creating a mosaic-like pattern. This meticulous process involves cutting precise shapes and fitting them together seamlessly, enhancing the visual appeal of the jewelry piece.

Inlaying is a jewelry technique where materials such as gemstones, metals, shell, or enamel are set into a cavity or depression in a jewelry piece to create patterns or decorative designs. The process requires precision and skill, resulting in unique and eye-catching jewelry pieces that showcase intricate craftsmanship.

An inquisition pendant is a historical jewelry piece that dates back to the Inquisition period. These pendants were often used as amulets to protect the wearer from harm or as symbols of religious beliefs. Inquisition pendants are collectible items with historical significance and are appreciated by antique jewelry enthusiasts.

An inro is a traditional Japanese small, multi-compartmentalized box used to carry small objects or medicines. They were often secured to a kimono sash using a netsuke. Inro can be highly decorative, featuring intricate lacquerwork, metalwork, or other artistic techniques, making them valuable collectible items and cultural artifacts.

An inscription in jewelry refers to a meaningful message, date, or name engraved on the piece. It can add sentimental value and personalization to the jewelry, making it a cherished gift or heirloom. Inscriptions can be found on rings, lockets, bracelets, and other jewelry items, holding special significance to the wearer.

Intaglio is a carving technique used to create a design or image by incising or engraving into a flat surface, typically gemstones or glass. The carved design is often in the form of a recessed, mirror image. Intaglio gemstones are popular for making seals, cameos, and other personalized jewelry pieces with intricate designs.

Intarsia, also known as Florentine intarsia, is a jewelry technique where different gemstones or materials are meticulously cut and fit together to create a mosaic-like pattern. The resulting design showcases a harmonious blending of colors and textures, adding a unique artistic element to the jewelry piece.

The Investiture Coronet of the Prince of Wales is a crown-like coronet used in the investiture ceremony of the Prince of Wales. It is a symbol of the Prince's title and is adorned with gemstones and intricate metalwork. The coronet is a part of the British Crown Jewels, and its design reflects the opulence and grandeur of the monarchy.

An investiture ring is a special ring worn by individuals during an investiture ceremony to mark their new title or rank. It may bear insignia, gemstones, or other symbolic elements related to the conferred honor. Investiture rings are meaningful jewelry pieces that signify the individual's achievements and position.

Investment jewelry refers to high-value pieces purchased not only for their aesthetic appeal but also as potential financial assets. Buyers often consider the rarity and market demand of the jewelry, hoping for appreciation in value over time.

Investment casting, also known as lost-wax casting, is a jewelry-making technique where a wax model is used to create a mold. Molten metal is then poured into the mold, creating a precise and detailed metal casting. This process is commonly used to produce intricate and delicate jewelry pieces with high precision.

Invisible setting is a jewelry technique where gemstones are set without visible prongs or bezels, creating a smooth and uninterrupted surface. This method often involves cutting a groove into the gemstone's girdle and securing it into a metal framework.

Invisible setting is a jewelry technique where gemstones are set without visible prongs or bezels, creating a smooth and uninterrupted surface. This method often involves cutting a groove into the gemstone's girdle and securing it into a metal framework.

Iolite, also known as iolith, is a gemstone that exhibits pleochroism, displaying different colors when viewed from different angles. It can range from violet-blue to light blue or yellow-gray. Iolite gemstones are faceted and used in various jewelry designs, offering a unique display of colors and adding a touch of sophistication.

Iranian diamonds refer to diamonds that are mined or sourced from Iran. These diamonds are known for their quality and have a reputation for their unique characteristics. Iran has a historical association with diamond mining, and its diamonds are valued for their brilliance and exceptional beauty, making them sought after in the gem market.

Iridescence refers to the optical phenomenon where surfaces display shimmering, changing colors when viewed from different angles. It is often seen in certain gemstones, pearls, and other materials used in jewelry. Iridescence adds a captivating and magical quality to jewelry, creating eye-catching pieces that exhibit a play of colors.

Iris quartz is a variety of quartz that exhibits a play of colors, similar to the rainbow effect seen in opals. The stone's iridescence is caused by the presence of sub-microscopic inclusions. Iris quartz is a captivating gemstone used in various jewelry designs to add a touch of unique brilliance.

Iris agate is a type of agate with a stunning visual effect, displaying a spectrum of colors when viewed under light. The stone's appearance resembles the iris of an eye, which gives it its name. It is often used in jewelry and decorative items due to its mesmerizing and colorful patterns.

Iris opal, also known as rainbow opal, is a captivating gemstone that exhibits a vivid play of colors, resembling the colors of the rainbow. This phenomenon, known as iridescence, makes iris opal a sought-after gemstone in jewelry making, as it imparts a vibrant and magical appearance to the piece.

The Irish torc is a traditional Celtic neck ring made of metal, typically gold or bronze. It features open-ended terminals and sometimes intricate knotwork or designs. Historically, it symbolized high social status and was worn as a sign of wealth and prestige. Irish torcs are now popular in Celtic-inspired jewelry.

Iron is a metallic element widely used in jewelry making due to its durability and malleability. It is a popular metal for crafting contemporary jewelry pieces and is often alloyed with other metals to enhance its properties. Iron jewelry offers a modern and industrial aesthetic for those seeking unique designs.

The Iron Crown is a highly symbolic and ancient crown containing a band of iron believed to be made from a nail used in Christ's crucifixion. It was historically used in the coronation of various European monarchs, making it a significant artifact in royal and religious contexts.

Iron jewelry refers to any jewelry pieces crafted from iron or its alloys. It can range from simple and minimalist designs to intricate and artistic creations. Iron jewelry is valued for its robustness and ability to take on unique finishes, making it a popular choice for contemporary and alternative styles.

Iron pyrites, also known as "fool's gold," is a mineral that resembles gold due to its brassy yellow color. However, it lacks the valuable properties of gold and is primarily used as a decorative stone in jewelry and ornaments. Iron pyrites are admired for their striking metallic luster and are often cut as cabochons.

An irradiated diamond is a natural diamond that has undergone an artificial irradiation process to alter its color. This treatment enhances the diamond's hue, making it more vibrant and desirable. Irradiated diamonds are commonly used in jewelry and offer an affordable alternative to naturally colored diamonds.

Irradiation is a gemstone treatment process that involves exposing the stone to controlled radiation to alter or enhance its color. This treatment can produce stunning and vividly colored gemstones, making them more appealing to consumers and expanding the range of available colors in the gem market.

Israelite jewelry refers to jewelry pieces inspired by or crafted in Israel, often reflecting the country's rich cultural and religious heritage. These designs may incorporate symbols and motifs of historical significance and are sought after for their unique connection to the land and its diverse history.

Ivory is a dense, creamy-white material derived from the tusks and teeth of animals like elephants, walruses, and mammoths. It has been used in jewelry and decorative arts for centuries due to its beauty and workability. However, due to ethical concerns, contemporary use of ivory in jewelry is highly regulated.

The Ixworth Cross is a distinctive Anglo-Saxon pendant cross dating back to the 9th or 10th century. It features intricate metalwork and is often adorned with gemstones or enamel. Ixworth Crosses hold historical and archaeological significance and are treasured as valuable relics of the Anglo-Saxon era.