joyau

jewel, gem

noun zhwah-YOH Rare

Origin: Old French 'joiel' from 'joie' (joy)

Also means

treasure, gem (figurative)

Usage Note

Joyau (plural joyaux) refers to a precious jewel or piece of fine jewellery. Figuratively, le joyau de la couronne ('the jewel in the crown') is used just as in English to mean the most prized asset. The plural joyaux follows the standard -au/-aux pattern. It is slightly more elevated than bijou.

Examples

"Ce diamant est un joyau rare."

Natural Translation

This diamond is a rare jewel.

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