subject: The Truths About Costume Jewelry [print this page] Costume jewelry is sometimes termed "fake jewelry" by some
well meaning but unknowing individuals. Costume jewelry is crafted from among other items, rhinestones, glass stones and gold plated metal or sterling silver. Costume jewelry first surfaced in the United States around the early twenties; it was very popular among European immigrants that settled into the states during this time. Movie stars and common folk alike wore costume jewelry that was carefully crafted and ornamentally designed.
Costume jewelry, particularly antique pieces, are well worth their weight in gold. Many hand crafted pieces can fetch thousands of dollars on the open market. There are some designers that are more well known than others in the world of costume jewelry:
Napier
Nettie Rosenstein
Ciner
Hattie Carnegie
Miriam Haskell
Even celebrities currently invest thousands of dollars on costume jewelry every year. Because unique pieces are harder to come buy and rarely mass produced anymore, some pieces created in the early 30s to late 40s can be hard to find. More common pieces that were created in the 1960s or later. Costume jewelry is fun in part because the wearer is at liberty to make a bold statement. Not modest, most costume jewelry shouts out "here I am, look at me!" An excellent choice for the bold and daring, costume jewelry can be a wonderful accessory to just about any wardrobe.
Costume jewelry collecting has even become a favorite pastime among many jewelry enthusiasts, much like beaded jewelry trading and collecting. The appeal of both of these styles is their uniqueness and diversity. Though in some instances hard to find, costume jewelry can be easily explored via online shopping. When buying online, be sure to have in mind a price range and style before shopping. The selection available online might leave you a bit overwhelmed.
If you collect wholesale costume jewelry, you might be wondering just how much it is worth. Just as there are popular designers for look and feel, some designers work is more valuable than others, including:
Ciner
Marel Boucher
Eisenberg
Hobe
Kramer
Vogue
Hollycraft
Monet
Coro
Kenneth J. Lane
These precious gems are often marked when crafted.
