How Do You Spell Jewelry

Common Variations in Spelling

The two most common variations for referring to decorative personal items are "jewelry" and "jewellery." Here's a breakdown of how these terms are used in different English-speaking regions:

American English

• Preferred Spelling: Jewelry

• Examples of Usage:

  • "She has an exquisite collection of jewelry."

  • "The jewelry store has a new collection of diamond rings."

British and Australian English

• Preferred Spelling: Jewellery

• Examples of Usage:

  • "Her jewellery box is filled with beautiful heirlooms."

  • "The jewellery designer showcased her latest collection at the fashion show."

Canadian English

In Canadian English, both "jewelry" and "jewellery" are acceptable, although "jewellery" is generally preferred.

• Examples of Usage:

  • "The jewellery exhibition was a grand success."

  • "She inherited some antique jewelry from her grandmother."

Differences in Derivatives

The spelling variations between American and British/Australian English extend beyond just the word "jewelry" or "jewellery." Here are some additional terms and their correct spellings in both forms of English:

Examples of Derivatives

• Jeweler vs. Jeweller:

  • American English: "The jeweler crafted a custom engagement ring."

  • British and Australian English: "The jeweller's craftsmanship is unparalleled."

• Jeweled vs. Jewelled:

  • American English: "She wore a jeweled tiara."

  • British and Australian English: "She wore a jewelled tiara."

• Jeweling vs. Jewelling:

  • American English: "She is jeweling a new piece for the exhibition."

  • British and Australian English: "She is jewelling a new piece for the exhibition."

Understanding the Core Term: Jewel

Interestingly, the root word "jewel" remains the same across all forms of English. No matter where you are, "jewel" is universally spelled the same way. This consistency can be a useful anchor point when trying to remember the different spellings for "jewelry" and "jewellery."

Why the Difference?

The spelling differences between American and British English often stem from historical and linguistic developments. American English tends to favor more simplified spellings, dropping extra letters that are typically retained in British English. This principle applies to other words as well, such as "color" (American English) versus "colour" (British English) and "theater" (American English) versus "theatre" (British English).

Quick Reference Table

For a quick and easy reference, here is a summary of the differences in spelling between American English and British/Australian English:

Jewelry or Jewellery? Know the Correct Spelling

Understanding the correct spelling of "jewelry" or "jewellery" largely depends on knowing your audience and the form of English they use. In American English, "jewelry" is the preferred spelling, while in British and Australian English, "jewellery" is the correct form. Canadian English speakers may use either, although "jewellery" is more commonly preferred. Additionally, derivatives such as "jeweler," "jeweled," and "jeweling" follow similar patterns of variation between American and British/Australian English.

By keeping these differences in mind, you can ensure that your writing is accurate and appropriately tailored to your audience. Whether you're describing a beautiful piece of jewelry or discussing the intricacies of jewellery design, knowing the correct spelling can make all the difference.