Spanish Conversation · Level 2
86 words
Spanish word
joya
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈxoʝa/
Meaning
- feminine noungem
Example
Ella encontró una joya en la caja.
She found a gem in the box.
More examples
¿Quieres comprar una joya para regalar?
Do you want to buy a gem to give as a gift?
Core concept
Treasured piece of jewelry or keepsake, often centered on a gemstone.
Common phrases
llevar una joya
wear a gem
una joya antigua
an antique gem
Similar words
gema: Natural or cut stone prized for color and brilliance and used as a decorative gem.
bisutería: Inexpensive costume jewelry made from non-precious materials for everyday wear.
sortija: Circular decorative band designed to be worn on a finger.
colgante: Ornamental piece attached to a chain and worn around the neck.
Definition in Spanish
Objeto de gran valor, especialmente una piedra preciosa usada como adorno, o cualquier cosa considerada muy valiosa.
Word origin
Borrowed from Old French joyau, itself from Latin jocale 'plaything', reflecting a semantic move from display objects to items valued as jewels.
Usage tips
- If the reference is specifically to the mineral stone, Spanish often prefers gema, while joya usually denotes the finished jewel or a thing praised figuratively.