piece of jewelry / gem
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piece of jewelry
An object worn on the body as jewelry, such as a ring, necklace, or bracelet.
Zum Geburtstag hat sie ein wunderschönes Schmuckstück von ihrer Großmutter bekommen.
For her birthday, she received a beautiful piece of jewelry from her grandmother.
gem
A person or thing considered especially beautiful, valuable, or worth showing off. It is often used to express admiration or pride.
Das frisch renovierte alte Rathaus ist das neue Schmuckstück der Stadt.
The freshly renovated old town hall is the city's new gem.
The word consists of 'Schmuck' (jewelry) and 'Stück' (piece). So it literally means 'a piece of jewelry' and is a very direct description.
In der Schatulle lagen mehrere alte Schmuckstücke.
There were several old pieces of jewelry in the jewelry box.
You can tell from the context whether the literal or the figurative meaning is intended. If people are talking about rings, necklaces, or bracelets, it means jewelry. If they are talking about a building, a car, or a city, it is an admiring description.
Sie trägt ein wertvolles Schmuckstück am Hals.
She is wearing a valuable piece of jewelry around her neck.
When referring to a real piece of jewelry, the verbs 'tragen' (to wear), 'anlegen' (to put on), 'ablegen' (to take off), or 'verschenken' (to give as a gift) are often used.
Zu besonderen Anlässen legt sie dieses Schmuckstück an.
She puts on this piece of jewelry for special occasions.
In the figurative meaning, 'Schmuckstück' (gem) is often used for things that people are proud of and like to show. These can be buildings, works of art, or even well-maintained vintage cars.
Sein altes, perfekt restauriertes Motorrad ist sein liebstes Schmuckstück.
His old, perfectly restored motorcycle is his favorite gem.
jewel / gem
When referring to a valuable ring, Juwel means the valuable, cut gemstone. Schmuckstück, on the other hand, means the entire object worn on the body, such as the ring with its setting and stone. The choice depends on which part is the focus.
Das funkelnde Schmuckstück an ihrem Finger ist besonders wertvoll.
The sparkling piece of jewelry on her finger is particularly valuable.
Das funkelnde Juwel in der Mitte des Rings ist besonders wertvoll.
The sparkling jewel in the center of the ring is particularly valuable.
