Jewelry Term Definitions – Alphabetical P’s
Parure - This is a matching set of jewelry, usually a brooch, necklace, earrings and a bracelet, but can be even larger. Part of a parure is called a demi or semi parure.
Paste - A brilliant cut glass stone which has been made to resemble a genuine gemstone.
Patina - this term refers to the change in the surface layer of jewelry as a result of the aging process. Sterling silver is particularly susceptible to developing a patina over time.
Pave - the process of setting stones (notably rhinestones), where a number of small stones are set as closely together as possible. Better pieces use a claw setting. Less expensive pieces often have the stones simply glued in.
Pearl - Pearl is a smooth luminous deposit that was formed from a foreign matter, like a grain of sand, entering an oyster or mollusk who then secretes nacre to coat the foreign matter with multiple layers creating a pearl.
Pendant - a decorative, usually large sized, charm which hangs from a chain necklace.
Peridot - A green gemstone which contains both iron and magnesium. The main source of the gemstone is Arizona. It is the birthstone for August.
Pietra Dura- Similar to Micromosaics, except that the piece is made of larger pieces of hard stone such as chalcedony, jasper, etc, in a background of black marble.
Platinum - Platinum is a strong metal that is white in color. It is heavier than gold, and holds stones well. Platinum is one of three precious metals including silver and gold.
Plique a jour - The process of applying enamel where a metal backing is lacking.
Poured Glass - This refers to a technique in which glass is heated and then poured into moulds to shape it. The resultant glass is translucent and often contains small bubbles. Miriam Haskell was fond of using poured glass in her pieces.
Princess Cut - Princess Cut is a style of cut that is square in shape. Unlike the emerald cut, the Princess cut has high brilliance and will not dull quickly.
Princess length - a single strand necklace which is 18" long.
Prong - this setting has a series of metal prongs which grip around the side of stones. Better rhinestone jewelry is prong set, rather than glued.
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.
