Costume jewellery is fabricated without precious metals or gemstones. Originally invented to accent a particular garment, it is also known as designer or fashion accessories. The finished product relies primarily on design to create beauty. From pieces small enough that men can wear them as lapel pins to huge chunky creations, there's something to please everyone. Some items are glitzy, others are discreet. Cost varies from very inexpensive to very expensive.
Designers first made use of plastic, wood, and glass. Some pieces included stainless, or rarely, sterling silver. Synthetics are in wide use today, the choice of materials inspired by imagination.
Although many think of costume pieces as contemporary, skilled workers have made counterfeit gemstones from glass for thousands of years. While the counterfeits then were often meant to deceive buyers, modern buyers know they're getting fakes. They're aware they are not purchasing valuable gems or metals. They are, however, acquiring attractive and fun-to-wear accessories.
Careless cleaning will ruin most pieces. Each often includes several kinds of material, some of which, such as rhinestones, are ruined by water. Immersion can also cause rust in metal components, and other parts may loosen or break. Dabbing on a mild cleaner is usually safe. Avoid polishing harshly, as that will destroy fragile finishes. Ultrasonic washes should be avoided.
Proper storage prolongs the life all adornments. Keeping pieces from touching or rubbing prevents wear and breakage. Plastic or cloth bags, or separate compartments, keep each item intact. Cosmetics should be applied before putting jewellery on. Hair spray is especially damaging.
Collectors attend thrift stores or flea markets in search of bargains. Desired pieces can also be found at estate sales, or even at yard sales. The Internet as well as antique road shows or shops are a source of treasures for many. Informed purchasing will allow maximum enjoyment from your costume jewellery, whether you add it to your collection or have fun wearing it.
Designers first made use of plastic, wood, and glass. Some pieces included stainless, or rarely, sterling silver. Synthetics are in wide use today, the choice of materials inspired by imagination.
Although many think of costume pieces as contemporary, skilled workers have made counterfeit gemstones from glass for thousands of years. While the counterfeits then were often meant to deceive buyers, modern buyers know they're getting fakes. They're aware they are not purchasing valuable gems or metals. They are, however, acquiring attractive and fun-to-wear accessories.
Careless cleaning will ruin most pieces. Each often includes several kinds of material, some of which, such as rhinestones, are ruined by water. Immersion can also cause rust in metal components, and other parts may loosen or break. Dabbing on a mild cleaner is usually safe. Avoid polishing harshly, as that will destroy fragile finishes. Ultrasonic washes should be avoided.
Proper storage prolongs the life all adornments. Keeping pieces from touching or rubbing prevents wear and breakage. Plastic or cloth bags, or separate compartments, keep each item intact. Cosmetics should be applied before putting jewellery on. Hair spray is especially damaging.
Collectors attend thrift stores or flea markets in search of bargains. Desired pieces can also be found at estate sales, or even at yard sales. The Internet as well as antique road shows or shops are a source of treasures for many. Informed purchasing will allow maximum enjoyment from your costume jewellery, whether you add it to your collection or have fun wearing it.