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