镶嵌 (xiāngqiàn) is a noun referring to the traditional craft technique of inlaying—embedding small pieces of material (such as jade, ivory, metal, or shell) into a surface to create decorative patterns or images. The first character 镶 (xiāng) means 'to edge' or 'to set in', often implying surrounding or framing; the second character 嵌 (qiàn) means 'to embed' or 'to inset'. Together, they emphasize the precise, deliberate insertion of contrasting materials into recessed areas of a base object.

This term appears frequently in discussions of Chinese arts and crafts—especially in describing ornamental details on lacquerware, bronze vessels, furniture, and jewelry. While it can occasionally refer to modern industrial inlaying, its primary usage remains rooted in fine art and cultural heritage contexts. It is not used for simple sticking or gluing; the process always involves carving a cavity and securing the inlaid piece flush with the surface.