Translation guide
The English word 'jewel' can refer to a precious stone, a piece of jewelry, or metaphorically to something or someone excellent. In Japanese, different words are used depending on the context.
Referring to a cut and polished precious stone, such as a diamond, ruby, or emerald.
General term for gemstones, jewels, or precious stones. This is the most common and versatile word.
She has a collection of jewels.
This ring has a small jewel on it.
A more literary or formal term for a precious stone, often implying a large or particularly valuable gem.
A large jewel was set in the crown.
Referring to an ornament such as a ring, necklace, or brooch that contains precious stones.
Can also refer to jewelry items, especially when the focus is on the gemstones. Often used in compound words like 宝石箱 (jewelry box).
She likes to wear jewels.
Loanword from English, commonly used for jewelry as fashion accessories. Often implies modern or Western-style jewelry.
A broader term for personal accessories, including jewelry. More formal and less commonly used in everyday conversation.
Describing someone or something as outstanding, precious, or the best of its kind.
Means 'greatest treasure' or 'jewel' in a metaphorical sense. Used for people or things of exceptional value.
He is the jewel of our company.
This painting is the jewel of the museum.
A simile meaning 'like a jewel', used to describe something precious or beautiful.
Literally 'gem' or 'jewel', used metaphorically for an outstanding work of art, literature, or a person. Often used in phrases like 珠玉の作品 (a gem of a work).
Referring to the synthetic ruby or other hard material used as a bearing in mechanical watches.
In watchmaking, 'jewels' are called 石 (stones). Often used in specifications like 21石 (21 jewels).
This watch has 21 jewels.
宝石 (ほうせき) emphasizes the gemstones themselves, while ジュエリー refers to jewelry as fashion items. Use 宝石 for loose stones or when the focus is on the gem, and ジュエリー for accessories like necklaces and earrings.
buy a gemstone vs buy jewelry
The English word 'jewel' is sometimes used in Japanese as ジュエル, but it is not common and may sound unnatural. Stick to 宝石 or ジュエリー for most contexts.
彼女は高級ジュエリーを買った。
She bought expensive jewelry.
The store sells various kinds of jewelry.
Her singing voice shone like a jewel.
This novel is a jewel of a masterpiece.