Pennyweight Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pennyweight
[ˈpɛn.i.weɪt ]
Definition
weight measurement
A pennyweight is a unit of mass that is equal to 1/20th of a troy ounce or approximately 1.555 grams. It is commonly used in the measurement of precious metals like gold and silver. The term comes from the historical use of a penny as a weight reference in the British coinage system. In modern applications, it is primarily utilized by jewelers and in the assay of metals.
Synonyms
dwt, troy weight.
Examples of usage
- The jeweler weighed the gold using pennyweights.
- A standard ounce contains 20 pennyweights.
- The value of the ring is based on its pennyweight.
- The assay report lists the purity in pennyweights.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- In the troy weight system, which is used to measure precious metals, one pennyweight is approximately 1.555 grams.
- Understanding pennyweight is important for jewelers who need to accurately assess the weight of gold and other metals.
Cultural Significance
- Pennyweight is part of a larger system known as 'troy ounces,' which dates back to the Roman Empire and is still used today.
- Collectors of coins and jewelry often examine items by weight; pennyweight helps distinguish between different qualities and values.
Literature
- In Victorian literature, the weight of precious items often played a significant role in character development and plot progression.
- Poets may use terms like pennyweight metaphorically to describe small but significant moments or values in life.
Economics
- The value of precious metals fluctuates, which means understanding their pennyweight is vital for investment and trade.
- The pennyweight measurement assists in evaluating the market value of gold and silver jewelry, directly affecting the economy.
Origin of 'pennyweight'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the historic use of a penny as a standard weight in medieval England.
- Originally, pennyweight referred to the weight of one penny coin, which was made of silver during its early usage.
The term 'pennyweight' originated from the Old English word 'penig', which means 'penny'. Historically, the penny was used as a unit of weight in ancient Britain, and it was standardized in the context of coinage and trade. The pennyweight became a part of the troy weight system, which was introduced for trading precious metals and gems. The system established a standard measure of currency in the form of weighted metal coins. The troy ounce, which is equivalent to the pennyweight, helped in standardizing the trade of gold and silver. Over time, the pennyweight became less common in everyday use but remains relevant in specialized fields like jewelry, where precise measurements are crucial. The use of pennyweights has persisted due to their historical significance and their precision in the context of tiny weights used in precious metal trading.