'jewel' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'jouel', which in turn comes from Medieval Latin 'jocale' where the root from Latin 'jocus' meant 'play' or 'joke'.

'jewel' changed from Medieval Latin 'jocale' and Old French 'jouel' into Middle English 'juel'/'juel' and eventually became the modern English word 'jewel'; the adjective/past form 'jeweled' developed by regular -ed suffixation.

Initially, it meant 'plaything' or object of amusement (from 'jocale'), but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a precious ornament or gem' and by extension 'adorned with jewels'.