Do you know what the karat weight of jewelry refers to? Find out this and the meanings of hundreds of other specialized terms in the Handbook of Fine Jewelry. The automatic appeal of spectacular jewelry, from antique to contemporary, is focused here through exquisite designs, brilliant gemstones and unique settings. In easy to use, encyclopedic format from A to Z, jewelry terms from ancient to modern are defined and lavishly illustrated by hundreds of beautiful color photographs. Famous jewelry designers and materials are included with illustrated examples of each. Jewelry styles and components, gem stones, and descriptive terms are included. This volume will become an important reference for jewelry dealers, collectors, and all who enjoy jewelry's aesthetic qualities.