Translation guide
In Japanese, the general term for jewelry is アクセサリー, a loanword from English. The native word 宝石 refers specifically to gems or precious stones, while 装身具 is a more formal term for personal accessories. This guide helps learners choose the right word based on context.
The most common way to refer to jewelry in everyday conversation, including necklaces, rings, earrings, etc.
The default word for jewelry in modern Japanese. It covers a wide range of decorative items worn on the body, including both fine and costume jewelry.
彼女は毎日違うアクセサリーをつけている。
She wears different jewelry every day.
このアクセサリーはどこで買ったの？
Where did you buy this jewelry?
Also a common loanword, often used in brand names, magazines, and when emphasizing fine jewelry or a more elegant nuance. Slightly more formal than アクセサリー.
彼は彼女に高級ジュエリーをプレゼントした。
He gave her luxury jewelry as a present.
A formal, somewhat old-fashioned term for personal ornaments, including jewelry, watches, and other accessories. Used in official documents or traditional contexts.
この店では高級装身具を取り扱っております。
This store deals in high-class personal accessories.
When specifically referring to gemstones like diamonds, rubies, etc., rather than the finished jewelry item.
Refers to gems or precious stones. It can also mean jewelry set with gems, but the core meaning is the stone itself.
彼女は宝石が大好きだ。
She loves gems.
この指輪には小さな宝石がついている。
This ring has a small gem on it.
Can also imply jewelry with precious stones, especially in commercial contexts.
Inexpensive jewelry made from non-precious materials, often for fashion.
Specifically refers to fashion accessories, including costume jewelry. The word アクセサリー alone often implies this in casual contexts.
このファッションアクセサリーは安いけどかわいい。
This fashion jewelry is cheap but cute.
A direct loan translation, used in fashion industry contexts but not common in daily speech.
コスチュームジュエリーのデザインを勉強しています。
I'm studying costume jewelry design.
アクセサリー is the broadest term, covering everything from cheap fashion items to fine jewelry. ジュエリー leans toward higher quality or elegance. 宝石 specifically means gems or jewelry with prominent stones. In daily conversation, アクセサリー is safest.
アクセサリーを買いに行く。
I'm going to buy some jewelry (could be anything).
ジュエリーショップで指輪を見た。
I looked at rings in a jewelry shop.
宝石の価値はカラットで決まる。
The value of a gem is determined by carats.
宝石 means 'gem' or 'jewel'. Using it for a simple metal necklace without stones sounds odd. Use アクセサリー instead.
彼女はいつも美しいアクセサリーをつけている。
She always wears beautiful jewelry.
アクセサリーボックスをなくした。
I lost my jewelry box.
このアクセサリーは銀製です。
This jewelry is made of silver.
ジュエリーの展示会に行った。
I went to a jewelry exhibition.