Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Jewel \Jew"el\, n. [OE. juel, jowel, OF. jouel, juel, joiel, F.
   joyau, dim. of OF. joie joy, jewel, F. joie joy. See {Joy}.]
   1. An ornament of dress usually made of a precious metal, and
      having enamel or precious stones as a part of its design.

            Plate of rare device, and jewels Of rich and
            exquisite form.                       --Shak.

   2. A precious stone; a gem. --Shak.

   3. An object regarded with special affection; a precious
      thing. ``Our prince (jewel of children).'' --Shak.

   4. A bearing for a pivot a pivot in a watch, formed of a
      crystal or precious stone, as a ruby.

   {Jewel block} (Naut.), block at the extremity of a yard,
      through which the halyard of a studding sail is rove.