Costume jewelry got its name because it was used in stage costumes. Its soul purpose is just to look good. It is typically made out of invaluable materials such as plastic, base metals and glass, although today it is also created out of man-made stones.
Most people buy jewelry as some sort of investment. Costume jewelry is definitely not an investment, but some people may have sentimental value invested in it. Many famous designers have created pieces of costume jewelry that have gone on to become very valuable simply because of its maker. Pieces designed by Coco Chanel and Kenneth Jay Lane have fetched top dollar at auction houses like Sotheby's and Christire's.
This jewelry became very popular during the 1920s and 1930s during the Art Deco movement. The jewelry had strong geometrical lines, which reflected the style of the art movement. Jewelry created out of beads and with long pendants, was usually seen adorning women during this time, especially whenever they were wearing their flapper dresses. Black, white and very bold colors were the style.
After the Art Deco movement came the Retro period. The theme of peace was reflected in this jewelry with the designs of bows, military insignias, flowers and sunbursts. Following the retro period came the modernist period that introduced a quiet, classy, sophisticated style to fashion jewelry.
For quite a while fashion jewelry became something quiet. As of late, there has been a movement towards collecting vintage pieces that have more attitude. Designers have also been creating pieces that are bigger and bolder because customers have been wanting more interesting pieces of jewelry. Costume jewelry is special because it has its own style and attitude. It can be incredibly personable and it helps its wearer to make a fashion statement.
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