The word "enchases" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ɪnˈtʃeɪsɪz/. The first syllable is pronounced with the short "i" sound, followed by the "n" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with the "ch" sound, followed by the long "a" sound and then the "s" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with the short "i" sound, followed by the "z" sound. "Enchases" is the present tense, third person singular form of the verb "encha se", meaning to set or mount a jewel or other object in a setting.
Enchases is a verb that refers to the act of setting or securing a valuable or decorative object, typically a gem or precious stone, into a metal encasement. The word is derived from the Old French term "enchacier," which means "to enclose or lay in." Enchases predominantly occur in the context of jewelry making or metalwork where artisans carefully embed or mount gemstones within a metal framework.
The process of enchasing involves skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail. Jewelers and metalworkers use various techniques to securely encase the gemstone, such as prong setting, bezel setting, or channel setting. The goal is to create a visually pleasing and protective housing for the gem, allowing it to be prominently displayed.
Enchases can be seen in a vast range of jewelry items, including rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets, and brooches. The choice of metal, such as gold, silver, or platinum, enhances the beauty and durability of the enchanted piece. The intricacy of the design and the quality of the gemstone both contribute to the overall value and appeal of the finished product.
In summary, enchases involve the process of securely embedding a gemstone into a metal framework, allowing for the creation of stunning and valuable pieces of jewelry. This technique requires expertise in jewelry making and results in a visually captivating appearance that showcases the gemstone's beauty.
The word "enchases" is derived from the Middle English word "encasen", which originated from the Old French word "enchasser". In turn, "enchasser" can be traced back to the Vulgar Latin word "incapsare", meaning "to enclose in a box". This Latin word is a combination of "in" (into) and "capsa" (box). Over time, "enchases" evolved to refer to the act of setting or securing something within a protective or decorative casing, particularly in the context of jewelry or metalwork.