Jewelry or Jewellery: Correct Spelling Guide

The debate over whether to use "jewelry" or "jewellery" often sparks confusion, especially among non-native English speakers and those who work in international markets. Although both spellings are valid, their use is largely determined by regional conventions and linguistic traditions. In this article, we will explore the origins of these terms, their regional usage, and the nuances that separate them. Let’s dive into this fascinating linguistic discussion.

The Origin of the Words

The words "jewelry" and "jewellery" both derive from the Old French term jouel, which means "a jewel." This term, in turn, originates from the Latin word jocale, meaning "plaything" or "toy." During the Middle Ages, as the English language evolved, the word "jewel" took root in Middle English, eventually giving rise to the modern terms "jewelry" and "jewellery."

Regional Differences

1. American English: Jewelry

In American English, "jewelry" is the preferred spelling, reflecting the country’s streamlined approach to language. This simplified version aligns with the broader American English tendency to streamline words, often by removing extra letters. For example:

Colour becomes color.

Flavour becomes flavor.

Centre becomes center.

The adoption of "jewelry" as the preferred spelling was largely standardized by Noah Webster in the early 19th century. Webster, the lexicographer behind Webster’s Dictionary, aimed to differentiate American English from British English by advocating for simpler, phonetic spellings.

2. British English: Jewellery

In contrast, British English retains the spelling "jewellery." This version adheres more closely to the original French and Middle English forms. The additional "-le-" reflects the British English preference for maintaining older linguistic conventions. For example:

Colour remains colour.

Flavour remains flavour.

Theatre remains theatre.

The "jewellery" spelling is also used in countries that follow British English conventions, such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and India.

Pronunciation: The Same for Both

Despite the difference in spelling, "jewelry" and "jewellery" are pronounced almost identically. Both are generally pronounced as /ˈdʒuː.əl.ri/ or /ˈdʒuəl.ri/, with variations depending on the speaker's regional accent. The pronunciation discrepancy, if any, is minor and does not usually lead to misunderstandings.

Common Usage in Business and Marketing

The choice between "jewelry" and "jewellery" often depends on the audience and market being addressed:

International Brands: Companies that operate globally may choose one spelling over the other based on their primary market. For example, Tiffany & Co., an American brand, uses "jewelry," while British brands like Asprey use "jewellery."

E-commerce Platforms: Platforms such as Etsy or Amazon may allow sellers to tag products with both spellings to ensure visibility to a broader audience.

SEO Considerations: Search engine optimization (SEO) strategies may require the use of both spellings in product descriptions or blog posts to capture traffic from both American and British English-speaking users.

Examples in Literature and Media

American English Usage: “In American English usage, one might say, “The museum displayed a stunning array of Native American jewelry.””

British English Usage: “In British English usage, one might say, “The crown jewels shone brilliantly under the grand hall's lights.””

These distinctions are subtle but important for authors, journalists, and marketers aiming to cater to specific audiences.

Exceptions and Contexts

1. Canadian English

Canada is an interesting case because it uses both "jewelry" and "jewellery" depending on the context. Canadian English is influenced by both American and British standards, so you may encounter either spelling in Canadian publications.

2. Academic Writing

In academic or historical contexts, "jewellery" may be preferred to align with British English traditions. Conversely, "jewelry" is common in research or writings originating in the United States.

3. Art and Craft Communities

In art communities, especially those focusing on handmade or bespoke items, "jewellery" is often used, even in the United States, to evoke a sense of tradition or craftsmanship.

Tips for Choosing the Right Spelling

Know Your Audience: If your audience is primarily in the United States, use "jewelry." For audiences in the UK or other Commonwealth countries, "jewellery" is more appropriate.

Check Style Guides: Consult relevant style guides, such as the AP Stylebook for American English or the Oxford Style Manual for British English.

Stay Consistent: Once you choose a spelling, maintain consistency throughout your writing to avoid confusing readers.

Use Tools: Software like Grammarly allows users to set a preferred language (e.g., American or British English) to ensure consistent usage.

Conclusion

The difference between "jewelry" and "jewellery" is a matter of regional preference rather than correctness. Both spellings are valid and widely recognized, but understanding their distinctions can enhance your communication, especially in international contexts. Whether you’re writing for an American audience, catering to British clients, or targeting a global market, being mindful of these nuances ensures clarity and professionalism.

So, which spelling will you use? Ultimately, the choice hinges on understanding your audience and the specific message you aim to communicate.