# Difference between metalwork, jewelry and ornamentation

> Metalwork creates decorative and functional objects, jewelry creates personal adornments, and ornamentation adorns and decorates objects.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/difference-between-metalwork-jewelry-ornamentation/
- Language: en
- Published: 2023-07-13
- Updated: 2023-07-24
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/diferencia-orfebreria-joyeria-ornamentacion/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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### Difference between metalwork, jewelry and ornamentation

Metalwork (goldsmithing), jewelry and ornamentation are related but distinct terms within the field of arts and crafts. Here is a brief explanation of the differences between them:

![Differences between metalwork, jewelry and ornamentation](https://www.711grados.com/media/diagrams/disciplines.en.svg "Metalwork, jewelry and ornamentation")

- **Metalwork**: Metalwork refers to the art of working precious metals, such as gold, silver and bronze, to create **decorative and functional objects**. Metalworkers use techniques such as molding, forging, chasing, filigree and soldering to shape metals and create unique pieces. Metalwork can include the creation of jewelry, but it also includes the production of objects such as tableware, candelabra, urns, sculptures and other decorative objects.
- **Jewelry**: Jewelry focuses specifically on the **creation of personal adornments** and luxury items made with precious metals and precious or semi-precious stones. Jewelry includes the making of rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings and brooches, among others. Jewelers use design skills and techniques of stone setting, mounting, filigree, enameling and others to create unique and attractive pieces of jewelry. Although jewelry is often associated with precious metals, it can also include the use of materials such as stainless steel, titanium and others.
- **Ornamentation**: Ornamentation refers to the **act of adorning or decorating objects** with ornamental motifs. It can involve the use of various materials, such as metals, wood, stone, ceramics, glass, textiles and more. Ornamentation is used to beautify objects such as furniture, buildings, clothing, accessories and other decorative elements. Ornamental motifs can include carving, engraving, inlay, painting, enameling, embroidery and other decorative details.

**Metalwork** focuses on working precious metals to create decorative and functional objects, **jewelry** focuses on creating personal adornments made with precious metals and precious stones, and **ornamentation** is concerned with adorning and decorating objects with ornamental motifs using a variety of materials.

### Common tools used by a metalworker, a jeweler and an ornamenter

There are some common tools that are usually used by metalworkers, jewelers and ornamenters. These tools can vary depending on the specific type of work they do, but here are some general tools used in these disciplines:

- **Jeweler's tweezers**: Tweezers are essential tools that allow small pieces to be held and handled with precision. They can have different shapes and sizes, such as round-nose tweezers, flat-nose tweezers, cutting tweezers and chain-nose tweezers, among others.
- **Pliers**: Pliers are versatile tools used to bend, shape, hold and cut wire, chains and other materials. There are different types of pliers, such as flat-nose pliers, round-nose pliers, side-cutting pliers and chain-nose pliers, among others.
- **File**: Files are cutting tools used to shape, smooth and refine metal surfaces. They come in different shapes and thicknesses, such as flat files, round files, triangular files and half-round files, among others.
- **Jeweler's hammer**: Jeweler's hammers are small, precise tools used to strike and shape metal. They can have different heads, such as flat heads, ball heads and chisel heads, among others.
- **Torch**: The torch is a tool used to apply controlled heat in soldering, melting metals and other metalworking techniques. It is used with gas and oxygen to generate the necessary flame.
- **Jeweler's lathe**: Jeweler's lathes are machines used to machine and shape metals. They allow the metal to be turned and cut precisely to create specific shapes and details.
- **Magnifying lenses**: Magnifying lenses, such as loupes or magnifying glasses, are tools used to improve vision and allow more detailed and precise work.

Depending on their specialty and specific techniques, they may also use other more specialized and specific tools for their work.