Definition of jewel

The word "jewel" has its origins in the Old English word "gewell", which referred to a precious stone or gemstone. This word is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*guli-", which is also the source of the Modern German word "Gelüd", meaning "precious stone". In Middle English (circa 11th to 15th centuries), the word "jewel" emerged as a variant of "gewell", and by the 15th century, it had become the standard spelling. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include any object of high value or beauty, such as a pearl or a precious metal ornament. Today, the word "jewel" is used to describe a precious or valuable object, often associated with beauty and luxury. Its origins in Old English and Proto-Germanic reflect the historical importance of gemstones and precious metals in human culture and trade.