Jewellery or Jewelry Plural: A Comprehensive Guide

The English language can be both fascinating and confusing, especially when it comes to spelling variations and grammar rules across different regions. One common area of confusion involves the word “jewellery” (British English) or “jewelry” (American English), particularly regarding its plural form. Is it “jewelleries” or “pieces of jewellery”? This article will explore the correct plural usage of the word, regional differences, and common grammatical practices.

1. Understanding “Jewellery” vs. “Jewelry”

British English:

Jewellery is the standard spelling in countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and India.

American English:

Jewelry is the preferred spelling in the United States and Canada.

Despite the spelling difference, both terms have the same meaning — they refer to decorative items worn for personal adornment, such as rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.

2. Is “Jewellery” or “Jewelry” Countable or Uncountable?

This is the key to understanding the plural form.

“Jewellery”/”Jewelry” is an uncountable noun in English.
This means that it does not take a plural form like regular countable nouns (e.g., books, chairs).
You cannot say “two jewelleries” or “five jewelries” in standard English.

Instead, when referring to multiple items, English speakers use quantifiers or measure words.

3. Correct Ways to Express the Plural of Jewellery/Jewelry

a. Using “Pieces of Jewellery/Jewelry”

This is the most grammatically correct and common way to express the plural:

✔ Two pieces of jewellery
✔ Several pieces of jewelry
✔ Many beautiful pieces of jewellery were displayed in the shop.

b. Using Specific Item Names

You can also refer directly to the types of jewellery:

✔ Rings, necklaces, and bracelets (All countable)
Example: She wore three rings and a pair of earrings.

4. Incorrect Usage: “Jewelleries” or “Jewelries”

Although “jewelleries” or “jewelries” might appear to be the plural form, they are not standard in modern English.

❌ Wrong: She owns many jewelleries.
❌ Wrong: The store sells expensive jewelries.

These forms may appear in non-native usage or older English literature, but are considered grammatically incorrect in current usage.

5. Examples in Sentences

Correct:

✔ Her jewellery is very expensive.
✔ He bought two beautiful pieces of jewellery for his wife.
✔ I love antique rings and vintage necklaces.

Incorrect:

❌ She has many jewelleries.
❌ He collected jewelries from around the world.

6. Summary Table

Term	Spelling	Countable?	Plural Form
Jewellery	British English	No	“pieces of jewellery”
Jewelry	American English	No	“pieces of jewelry”
Jewelleries	Non-standard	—	Incorrect
Jewelries	Non-standard	—	Incorrect

7. Final Thoughts

The word “jewellery” (UK) or “jewelry” (US) is an uncountable noun, and therefore, does not have a regular plural form. To talk about multiple items, use expressions like “pieces of jewellery”, or name the specific items like “necklaces”, “rings”, “bracelets”, etc. Understanding this small but important rule will help you speak and write English more accurately, especially in formal and academic contexts.