| This type of jewellery can exude expense, but | | | | Many jewelers sell both costume jewellery as |
| costs very little, usually over the top and | | | | well as expensive pieces. H.Samuel a well |
| ostentatious, it can be a main focus point of | | | | known jeweler has a wide range to choose |
| any outfit. | | | | from, click on this link to see: |
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| Originally, costume or fashion jewelry was | | | | The term costume jewelry dates back to the |
| made of inexpensive simulated gemstones, such | | | | early 20th century. It may reflect the use of |
| as rhinestones or Lucite, set in pewter, | | | | the word "costume" to refer to what is now |
| nickel or brass. Modern costume jewelry | | | | called an "outfit"; for example, a "handsome |
| incorporates a wide range of materials. High | | | | street costume of maroon brown velvet". Thus |
| end crystals, CZs or cubic zirconia simulated | | | | the jewelry worn with everyday fashion |
| diamonds, and some semi-precious stones are | | | | (costumes) grew to be known as "costume |
| used in place of precious stones. Metals | | | | jewelry." Another theory is that the term |
| include gold- or silver-plated brass, and | | | | refers to the jewelry worn in theatrical |
| sometimes vermeil or sterling silver. | | | | productions. |
| Lower-priced jewelry may still use gold | | | | |
| plating over pewter, nickel or other metals; | | | | In many instances, high-end fashion jewelry |
| items made in countries outside the United | | | | has achieved a "collectible" status, and |
| Kingdom may contain lead. Some pieces | | | | increases in value over time. There is a |
| incorporate plastic, acrylic, or wood. | | | | substantial secondary market for vintage |
| | | | fashion jewelry. |