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Centuries of Costume Jewelry

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By TheWatchMaker


Costume jewelry is made from inexpensive metals and imitation gems or semiprecious stones and has been around for ages. Chances are you have seen costume jewelry being worn at plays, dramas, operas, musicals and on TV. Most people I know have a piece of jewelry that would qualify as costume jewelry. You have probably even read about costume jewelry sets in old novels. Costume jewelry accessories were referred to as jewelry made of paste. Have you ever read about a character in a book that would bite a piece of jewelry? Well, in the old days this was a simple way to test for authenticity. The production of costume jewelry has come a long way over the years, and it is much more difficult for example, to tell a cubic zirconia (a synthetic gemstone) diamond from a real diamond at a glance.

What Kind of Costume Jewelry are You Looking For?



Costume jewelry turns up in more places than you might think
Costume jewelry turns up in more places than you might think

Costume jewelry can be found as every piece of jewelry imaginable. You may choose a costume jewelry necklace which consists of an imitation gem or semiprecious stone hanging from a chain or choker. A necklace can be the most prominent piece of fake jewelry that one can wear. It is usually what is seen and noticed most. Costume jewelry earrings are also popular. Many times the stones are attached to real gold or silver so as not to irritate the ear. The earrings can be simple elegant studs or more trendy pieces such as hoops and dangle jewelry. Rhinestone costume jewelry is often a trademark of some styles of belts. Rhinestone costume jewelry belts are common in western styles and many other styles of belts. Oftentimes a costume jewelry cross will be added in addition to the rhinestones. Fake gems are also used to decorate the arms. Birthstone pendants and bracelets are a popular way for mothers to show off the birth months of their children. These costume jewelry gems can also be attached to a pin that can be worn on a blouse, jacket or sweater. Costume jewelry rings are possibly the most popular item sold. You will find rings in every color, shape and size at any costume jewelry store. Rings may also be found through a costume jewelry wholesaler or online by going to auction sites. This is perhaps one of the best places to try first if you are looking for cheap costume jewelry. Rings may be fashioned to imitate pearls, diamonds, and other stones. Costume jewelry brooches may not be as popular as they once were, but they are often worn in past decades and are used in period costumes. All of the jewelry mentioned above brings about the mental image of a woman wearer, but men’s costume jewelry is prevalent as well. You can find fine costume jewelry for men like watches, tie clips, rings, money clips, cuff links, eyeglass chains, and pins. All of these may be found at a costume jewelry store.

Special Occasions and Other Uses

Just think of all the occasions in which costume jewelry can be worn. Bridal and wedding costume jewelry sets are sure to add a sparkle to any wedding ceremony. The jewelry may be worn to authenticate period clothing for your local pioneer and western day festivities. Add inexpensive pieces to your Halloween costume for a fun new look. Buy your child play jewelry to enhance the imagination during those dress up play days. High school dramas and one act plays will always need inexpensive replicas to finish off the look. Can you imaging Romeo and Juliet without costume jewelry? Replica gems looks great in your Christmas pageant on the kings’ crowns. Even Easter plays need costume jewelry for the Roman soldier and prominent leaders of the day. If you want to save some money, and your girlfriend likes fun gifts, a replica diamond or brooch makes a great gift for Valentines Day. Add rhimestones to your Mardi gras costume for added pizzazz. Personalize your collection by mixing and matching to make your ensemble an original look for you for everyday wear as well. With the price of costume and replica jewelry being cheaper, you can afford to buy in bulk and have a new look all the time for everyday wear. No matter how you choose to incorporate it into your wardrobe, there is nothing that makes a better statement than fine costume jewelry.

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