Understanding Jewellery Product Descriptions and Sizes

Jewellery product descriptions are full of shorthand: "AD stones", "1-gram gold", "oxidised", "2.6 size", "18-inch chain". Understanding these terms helps you know exactly what you are buying and avoid disappointment. This guide decodes the most common language in listings.

Material and finish terms

Term	What it usually means
Brass / copper / alloy	The base metal
Gold-plated	Thin gold layer over base metal
Gold-tone / gold-finish	Gold colour; gold content not implied
Micro-plated / micron gold	Plating described by thickness; ask for specifics
"1-gram gold" / "one gram gold"	A common Indian market term for gold-plated jewellery with a thin gold layer; it does not mean the piece contains exactly one gram of gold
Gold-filled	Thicker gold layer bonded mechanically (FTC: at least 1/20th of metal weight)
Vermeil	Gold over sterling silver (FTC: at least 10k and about 2.5 microns)
Rhodium-plated	Bright white finish
Silver-plated	Thin silver layer over base metal
Silver-tone	Silver colour only
Sterling / 925	Solid 92.5% silver
Oxidised	Deliberately darkened finish
Antique / matte gold	Aged, muted gold finish
Anti-tarnish	Usually a protective coating; ask what kind

US FTC guidance (16 CFR Part 23) defines several of these terms precisely and is a useful benchmark wherever you shop. For fine gold in India, BIS hallmarking certifies precious-metal content.

Stone terms

Term	Meaning
AD / American diamond	Cubic zirconia (CZ)
CZ	Cubic zirconia, a lab-made simulant
Kundan / kundan-style	Usually foil-backed glass in gold-toned frames
Polki / polki-look	Uncut-diamond look, usually glass or simulant
Crystal	High-quality glass
Rhinestone	Foil- or coat-backed glass stone
Faux / artificial pearls	Coated glass, plastic or shell beads
Semi-precious look	Coloured glass or dyed material imitating gemstones
Lab-grown diamond	Real diamond made in a lab, not a simulant

Size and measurement conventions

Necklaces

Length is usually given in centimetres or inches, measured end to end including the clasp. Check whether a pendant's drop is included. See How to Choose Necklace Lengths.

Earrings

Often listed as length × width, measured from the top of the earring (or hook) to the bottom. Check whether the hook is included.

Bangles

Indian sizes like 2.4, 2.6, 2.8 refer to inner diameter in inches and sixteenths (2.6 = 2 and 6/16 inches). Always check the seller's chart. See Bangles and Kada.

Rings

Sizes vary by system (US, UK, EU, Indian). Compare your millimetre measurement with the seller's chart. See Ring Size Guide.

Weight

Usually in grams, per piece or per pair. Useful for judging comfort.

Reading between the lines

Phrase	What to ask
"Premium quality"	What materials and finish?
"Long-lasting polish"	What finish? Any lacquer?
"Skin-friendly" / "hypoallergenic"	What are skin-contact parts made of? Any test evidence?
"Waterproof"	Which parts? Are stones glued?
"Same as picture"	Are photos of the actual product?
"Free size"	What is the adjustment range?

A listing that inspires trust

Specific materials and finishes
Clear measurements and weight
Multiple real photos, including the back
Care instructions
Clear returns policy
Honest, specific language

See How to Buy Artificial Jewellery Online.

Explore HANSINI369 Jewellery. Earrings, necklace sets and bangles for festive, bridal and everyday wear, from the HANSINI369 collection. Find Jewellery for Your Style

Key takeaway

Product descriptions use shorthand that hides important differences. Learn the material, stone and size terms, check measurements against what you own, and ask for specifics whenever claims sound vague.

Sources and further reading

Written by

HANSINI369 Editorial Team

Our editors research jewellery types, materials, care and craft, and review guides when materials, standards or recommendations change. Read our editorial policy.