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