a·jour | ä-ˈzhu̇r
adjective
A jour is a unique and captivating setting technique used in jewelry to showcase the full brilliance and beauty of gemstones. It translates to “openwork” in French, aptly describing its essence.
Here’s a closer look at this intriguing setting.
Concept and Benefits of A Jour
- Openwork Design: The setting features intricate metalwork that surrounds and supports the gemstone, but leaves portions of the culet and pavilion exposed. This allows light to enter the gemstone from multiple angles, amplifying its brilliance and revealing hidden facets.
- Enhanced Light Play: The open design maximizes the play of light within the gemstone, highlighting its fire, scintillation, and depth of color.
- Lightweight and Airy: Compared to traditional settings, a jour settings appear lighter and more delicate, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to jewelry pieces.
- Versatility: This setting can be used with various gemstones, from round brilliant diamonds to faceted colored stones, allowing for diverse and captivating designs.
Types of A Jour Settings
- Prong A Jour: This setting uses delicate prongs to secure the gemstone, leaving the sides and pavilion open for maximum light penetration.
- Bezel A Jour: A thin metal bezel surrounds the gemstone, leaving the crown and culet exposed. This provides a more secure and contemporary look.
- Bar A Jour: This setting uses thin metal bars to support the gemstone, creating a minimalist and geometric aesthetic.
Ideal Applications
- Fine Jewelry: A jour settings are perfect for showcasing the brilliance and beauty of high-quality gemstones, often used in earrings, pendants, and rings.
- Statement Pieces: The open design and intricate details make a jour settings ideal for creating unique and eye-catching pieces.
- Antique and Vintage Jewelry: This setting technique has been used for centuries, making it a popular choice for antique and vintage jewelry pieces.
Important Considerations
- Durability: Due to the open design, a jour settings may be less durable than closed settings and require more careful handling.
- Maintenance: Gemstones set a jour may require more frequent cleaning due to the exposed facets.
- Professional Setting: Due to the complexity of the design, it’s recommended to have a skilled jeweler set the gemstone using the a jour technique.
In Conclusion
A day setting is an enthralling approach for revealing the genuine beauty and brightness of diamonds. It improves the stone’s fire, scintillation, and depth of color by enabling light to penetrate from all sides. A day settings give a timeless elegance and a stunning exhibition of the gemstone’s hidden beauty, whether you’re seeking for a unique piece of fine jewelry or a striking ite