Similarities of Costume and Fashion Jewelry

Costume jewelry and fashion jewelry are essentially the same but from different time periods. The two types share similarities in construction and purpose, but there are some subtle differences between costume and fashion jewelry. Many consumers use these terms interchangeably while some jewelers and fashion designers distinguish between the two categories.

 

 

Similarities of Costume and Fashion Jewelry

Both costume and fashion jewelry offer consumers the same benefit of affordable accessories. These jewelry types mimic the appearance of finer pieces by using less expensive materials. Fine jewelry can be expensive because it uses precious metals and gemstones that are quite valuable. Costume and fashion jewelry substitute these materials with plated metals and fake gems. The following table highlights some common materials used in the construction of costume and fashion jewelry.

Plated Metals
Non-Precious Stones

Pewter
Rhinestones

Aluminum
Colored Glass

Nickel
Plastic or Acrylic Beads