mount·ing | ˈmau̇n-tiŋ
noun
A piece of metal that holds a gem in place
A mounting is a piece of metal designed to hold a gem in place within a piece of jewelry. The phrase itself applies to any piece of hardware that is designed to hold, back, or support something, keeping it in place, and therefore the term is used for a range of different objects. For jewelry, mounting typically refers to the precious metals that are used to present and hold in place the gemstone. For many pieces, the gemstone is selected first and the mounting is designed specifically for that gemstone, ensuring it is the right shape, capable of holding that gemstone, and that is durable for the way in which the jewelry piece will be worn over time.
