Jewelry Term Definitions – Alphabetical E’s
Edwardian - The period during the reign of Edward VII of England (1901-1910). In jewelry the style refers to the years of Queen Victoria's reign, from the late 1900's until shortly before World War I when the more geometric style of Art Deco began to make headway.
Electroplate - A process whereby metal is plated with gold. Eventually gold plating wears away, however it depends on how often the item is worn and how thick the plating is.
Emerald - Precious green stone that is part of the beryl family. The presence of flaws in emeralds is common and does not lower the value of the stone as much as other gemstones. Bright green stones with a slight blue cast are considered to be the most valuable. Most emeralds are mined in Columbia.
Enamel - A decorative technique in which a colored powdered glass "paste" is applied to the surface of a metal. The result may be translucent with fancy engraving on the metal underneath, which produces guilloche (ghee-YOSH) enamel.
Engrave - To decorate metal by inscribing or embellishing with a design using tools, stamping, or a drill. Many times an engraving is a dedication or monogram to identify a piece.
Etching - A process which produces design using acids to eat away at exposed metal creating high and low relief areas.
Etruscan - Jewelry characterized by intricate and ornate designs often in layers of filigree, and many times including precious gemstones.
Filed Under: Jewelry Terms Glossary
About the Author: Wanda Fitzgerald is a Florida native and an vintage charm collector who loves to share her adventures in an e-commerce jewelry business with anyone who is interested.
