Costume Jewelry: The Stirring Story of the Fabulous Fakes

Costume jewelry first came to the USA during the 1920's. The phrase Fabulous Fakes, stems from the tradition of antique American costume jewelry which was generally constructed out of rhinestones, sterling silver, gold plated metal, and multi-colored glass stones. The famous designer Miriam Haskell, along with many other designers of the time, started selling their costume jewelry during the year 1925. Not long afterwards, immigrants from Europe commenced makng their own jewelry in New York, Chicago and even in Providence Rhode Island.

Popularity rose for cosutme jewelry during the 1940s as Hollywood celluloid starts began using in their movies and in their off screen lives it to go to premieres and galas. Probably the most well known jewelry designers of that era was Joseff of Hollywood.Other big names in the costume jewelry field included Eisenberg Originals, Napier, Ciner and Hattie Carnegie. Today collectors go crazy after these highly sought designers and their jewelry. Items from this era, the 1930s-1950s, are particularly hard to get. Jewelry of this time period that has been signed by the designer fetch a high price and are prized amongst top collectors.

Many people in modern times are keen on collecting vintage cosutme jewelry. It has become en vogue. A good number of these vintage jewelry pieces can be bought and sold for thousands and even tens of thousands of dollars. Vintage costume jewery makes a daring fashion statement. Today's top celebrities have been spotted wearing some classic pieces. Demi Moore, Sarah Jessica Parker, Madonna, Nicolette Sheridan and Diane Keaton all wear classic costume jewelry, for instance. It makes a great visual impact. Costume jewelry is brilliant and vivacious. Many of the designs are unique and one of a kind. These pieces strike the perfect balance of elegance and originality.

Tips for Amateur Jewelry Collectors

As you start out with your jewelry collecting hobby, there are some things you should keep in mind. For one, you should always check the pin clasps to be sure they function properly as they can be rather hard to repair. Any jewelry featuring metal that has turned green should be avoided. Also stay away from items missing stones, unless you are confident you can replace them easily. The best finds can be had at rummage sales, estate sales, flea markets and antique fairs. Church fairs or bazaars can often turn up some great vintage pieces that have been stored away for years in someone's attic.

You can buy discount costume jewelry to pass on to your children. If you build up a nice collection today, then down the line you will have at least a few pieces that will be just as desirable and valuable as the antique pieces that are prized by collectors today. Ideally, if you can afford it you should purchase some jewelry pieces from designers such as Prada and Armani, more specifically their couture collections. Those pieces are very unique and only created in small quantities.