镶

• Pinyin: xiāng
• Hanzi breakdown: 镶 = 钅 (metal radical) + 襄 (surround) — to frame or embed with metal

Meaning

To inlay; to set (a gemstone or decorative element); to border or edge with a contrasting material.

Describes the craft technique of embedding one material within another — setting gems in metal, bordering garments with decorative trim, or fitting ornamental elements into a frame. Prized in Chinese jade carving, goldsmithing, and traditional textile arts. Often appears with 金 (gold-edged), 银 (silver-edged), or specific stone names.

Examples

1. 这枚戒指用铂金镶了一颗硕大的钻石，在灯光照射下熠熠生辉，令人叹为观止。 This ring is set with a huge diamond in platinum; under the lights it sparkles brilliantly and is truly stunning.
2. 工匠花费数月时间，将各色宝石镶在屏风木框四周，打造出极为华丽的装饰效果。 The craftsman spent several months setting gemstones of different colors around the wooden frame of the folding screen, creating an extremely luxurious decorative effect.
3. 旗袍的领口和袖口镶着精致蕾丝花边，凸显了穿着者优雅的女性气质与品位。 The collar and cuffs of the qipao are trimmed with delicate lace, highlighting the wearer’s elegant femininity and taste.

Usage Guide

Context: crafts, jewelry, fashion, decoration

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这枚翡翠戒指由黄金镶边，工艺精湛，令所有见过它的人赞叹不已。(This jade ring is edged with gold — the craftsmanship is exquisite, drawing admiration from all who see it.)
• 刺绣领口镶着银线，使整件旗袍显得格外华贵典雅，气质出众。(The embroidered collar is bordered with silver thread, making the entire qipao appear exceptionally magnificent and elegant.)

Don't Say

• 把书镶在架子上 — 镶 refers to embedding material into a surface or frame; for placing objects on a shelf use 摆放 or 放置 instead

Origin & History

镶 = 钅 (metal radical) + 襄 (to surround/assist) — metal used to frame or embed another material

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal