Jewels...

[fitmic]

Excuse my ignorance, but why are jewels used in the movements, and are they real jewels?

Thanks in advance.

[ubiquitous]

Jewels are typically synthetic ruby, and are used at friction points to reduce wear (i.e. pivot points, etc) with a small drop of lubrication.

EDIT: Here's a nice website that explains the use and function of jewels:

http://elginwatches.org/help/watch_jewels.html

[pro expert dan]

they are used because they dont wear away easy.

//edit: someone has already got there

Edited December 29, 2006 by pro expert dan

[fitmic]

Thanks for educating me!