The Jewelry Maker’s Dictionary: G
Welcome to the Jewelry Maker’s Dictionary – Letter G, brought to you by Continental Bead Suppliers. In this installment, we’re exploring key terms beginning with “G” that every jewelry maker should know — from essential materials and tools to gemstone names and metalworking techniques.
Gauge (Wire Gauge)
A measurement of wire thickness. In jewelry making, the higher the gauge number, the thinner the wire. Common gauges include 20–24 for earrings and 16–18 for structural work.
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Gemstone
A naturally occurring mineral or stone that is cut and polished for use in jewelry. Includes popular varieties like amethyst, agate, fluorite, and quartz.
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Gilded
Refers to a surface that has been coated or overlaid with a thin layer of gold. Gilded components offer the look of gold without the cost of solid metal.
Glass Bead
Beads made from glass in a wide range of finishes, colors, and shapes. Includes lampwork, seed beads, fire-polished beads, and pressed glass beads.
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Glue-On Bail
A type of jewelry bail with a flat pad designed for gluing onto a cabochon, crystal, or pendant without a pre-drilled hole.
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Gold-Filled
A layer of real gold bonded to a base metal (usually brass). More durable and tarnish-resistant than gold-plated components, making it ideal for quality designs.
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Gold-Plated
A thin layer of gold applied to a base metal through electroplating. Offers the look of gold at a more affordable price point.
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Graduated Beads
A strand or necklace where beads increase or decrease in size, typically arranged with the largest beads at the center. Adds a polished, balanced look to designs.
Granulation
An ancient technique where tiny metal beads (granules) are fused to a metal surface to create texture and ornate patterns. Still used in artisan and ethnic jewelry today.
Graphite Crucible
A container used in metal casting to melt down raw metals for pouring into molds. Common in lost-wax casting and metal clay work.
Grip Chain
A type of chain with textured or faceted links that “grip” light, creating more shine and reflection. Often used in bold or statement jewelry.
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Gypsy Setting
Also called a flush setting. A stone-setting technique where the stone is set into a drilled hole in metal so that it sits level with the surface.
➡️ Continue Learning: Jewelry Maker’s Dictionary – H
Click here to explore the next set of jewelry-making terms starting with the letter H.