Advice on Jewellery Terms

k
European symbol for carat when used to show the quantity by weight of fine gold to alloy 

ct
Abbreviation of carat when used to show diamond weight 

wall thickness
How thick the shank and head of the ring are in cross section (as if you cut through it) - this gives a good indication of durability 

tapering
Describes a gradual narrowing of the ring, usually towards the back of the finger 

head
The top of the ring 

shank
The band of the ring that goes around the finger 

width
The width of the ring from the base of the finger 

mm
Abbreviation of millimeter 

gm
Abbreviation of gram 

pin
In this context means a small brooch using a short pin and push-on ballou back, as in a badge. 

brooch
In this context means a larger brooch using a standard brooch fitting with a safety revolver catch or tube catch. 

enamelled
All enamelled items shown are enamelled with vitreous enamel (a fine glass-like form of enamel, unlike resin enamel which is commonly used in badges and costume jewellery).