Jewellery Sizing and Care
Latest Jewellery Blog Posts
Subscribe to the Jewellery For Sale Blog RSS
|
|
All That Glitters is Not Gold. Except if it's Costume Jewellery |
|
Costume jewellery, also called fashion jewelry, is extremely fashionable, exquisite and extremely affordable. It's as though our emotional and sentimental fascination with the real thing spills over and rubs off on costume jewellery to the extent where even the most notorious of public figures bare no shame in displaying their costume bling.
As a child I remember being drawn to anything small and sparkley. A piece of green glass, glitter or cake decorations, all attracted my attention and deserved my utmost attention.
Costume jewels are a far cry from broken glass and glitter. Every bit as beautiful as “fine jewellery”, costume jewels hold the power to turn heads. Whether one adorns ones self with costume jewels for the desire of attention or one own attraction to glittering beauty, there is no denying that the low price tag, enormous selection of pieces and near look alike qualities of costume jewels are a powerful force behind why these exquisite imitations are so popular.
When it comes to costume jewellery, woman are spoilt for choice. There's something for everyones budget, something to match any outfit and something fit to be worn at every event, casual or formal.
Costume Jewellery is made of non-precious materials and therefore holds little financial value. Nevertheless, it is astonishing to see that costume jewellery pieces can hold every bits as much sentimental value to their owner as fine jewellery counterparts.
Years older, my fascination for all things that sparkle has not changed, well perhaps the price tag has changed.
So what are these master pieces of deception made from and what is the history that has lead to today's popularity?
Costume jewellery is often made of base metals, glass, plastic, synthetic stones and similar materials. Fine jewellery is far more expensive and made only of precious metals and gems. This often has a disadvantage as many women can’t buy fine jewellery that fits every day, every outfits and every event. For this reason costume jewellery has become very popular.
The source of it’s name “costume” jewellery it is said to date back to the early 20th century. Today this world is known as “outfit”. It was worn as everyday fashion jewellery, hence the two names, “costume jewellery” and “fashion jewellery”. Jewellery that was worn with every day outfits for fashion accessory purposes. There is a theory that costume jewellery initially started in the theatrical arena. In other words jewellery worn in theatrical productions.
In history books it is said that this type of jewellery dates back some 300 years. People started making cheap jewellery as early as the late 1700s. In the 1800s it was found that costume was made of semi precious metals and brought to market for regular people to buy. It was a less expensive form of jewellery that more people could afford, rather than fine jewellery that only they very rich could afford at that time.
Back then costume jewellery did not enjoy the notoriety it enjoys today. Then in the 1930s, rhinestone material came into vogue in Europe. Rhinestone is a diamond imitation made form rock crystal, glass or acrylic. Many manufacturers arose, each claiming to have captured the the perfect sparkle given off by diamonds and other precious gems. This competition pushed innovation to the point where soon, manufactured diamonds and gems became hard to distinguish from the real product.
Rhinestones are said to have originated from the Rhine river region in Germany. Rhinestone, being such a close imitation to real diamonds made wearing of costume jewellery fashionable and famous amongst the masses. Starting what is referred to as “golden era” of costume jewellery.
“Coco” Chanel (Gabrielle Bonheur - August 19, 1883 – January 10, 1971) was a pioneering French fashion designer that is said to have greatly popularized the use of costume and fashion jewellery.
Kenneth Jay Lane (born April 22, 1930), an American costume jewellery designer, has since the 1960s been known for creating unique pieces for figures such as Jackie Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor, Diana Vreeland, and Audrey Hepburn. He is probably best-known for his three-strand faux pearl necklace worn by Barbara Bush to her husband's inaugural ball.
As you see, costume jewellery, from its humble beginnings as affordable jewellery for common people and theatrical productions has become a fashion on its’ own, accepted by people from all walks of life.
In many instances, high-end fashion jewelry has achieved a "collectible" status that increases in value over time. Today one can find a substantial secondary market for vintage fashion jewelry.
The reason behind this is quite often very easy to understand – you can buy as much costume jewellery as you wish for every day, every wear, every event, while fine jewellery has its’ place it can not replace the costume and fashion jewellery every day use.
Today costume jewellery is worn by everyone, including famous actresses if you just take a look at paparazzi photographs from glitz events such as the Ami awards or the Oscar awards you will stunning pieces of costume jewellery adorning virtually every star.
|
|
|
Christmas gifts for the woman in your life - Costume Jewellery |
|
Sometimes deciding what to give to that special woman in your life can be difficult. If you've been together for a good many years, then there's a good chance that you've bought just about everything you can think of. Finding something unique and feminine can perplex the best of men. You want something unique, something special, something not too cheap and not to expensive, something they will be able use regularly.
With all that in mind, the last thing on a guys mind will be jewellery . Mere mention of the word makes a man think of diamonds and a heavy price tag. So why am I even mentioning jewellery. What are the guys missing?
Here's what many guys don't understand. It's the secret that can help you get what you lady loves without burning a hole in your pocket.
Women love jewellery. Yes they love the real thing, meaning if it's real diamond or gold that is always the first prize, but jewellery does not have to be made from real gold or diamonds to be loved by a lady. Women just have an appreciation for beautiful things, so if you can give you lady a piece of stunning costume jewellery they will be just as happy.
Many celebrities wear costume jewellery, take a look at any picture of an actress arriving at the Oscars and ten to one you will see that they are wearing Costume Jewellery. These fashion jewellery pieces are so beautiful and so real looking that they pass for the real thing and are even acceptable to celebrities. Costume or fashion jewells is now very popular with ladies and gents alike. Many costume jewellery peices are simply esquisite and have a look and feel that matches fine jewellery. Some jewellery peices are difficult to distinguish from the real thing.
Costume jewellery comes in a wide range of materials and stones. There are rings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, bangles, earrings from stick-on to hoops. You can even find body jewellery like belly bars, eyebrow rings and toe rings. The range of jewellery pieces and their design is enough to "bedazzel" anyone.
The beauty of giving jewellery to your special lady is that jewellery is timeless. So fella's it's not the price; it's the style that determines whether your gift of jewellry is received in the same spirit in which it is given. Aim to give her jewelry that delights, something that matches her own special and unique style. Jewellry is one area where you cannot give a gift that you would love to own. Your idea of a fashionable pendant may not be her idea of something she would wear.
Simple attention to details such as whether the jewellery piece is intended for casual or formal wear, traditional or contemporary, or matching a piece of clothing she already owns and loves, can have a big impact on showing how much love and thought was put into your jewellery gift .
|
|
|
How to Select Earrings to Suite your Face and Personal Style |
|
Earrings are the most flattering of jewellery styles. Sparkling gems and precious metals brighten the face and dangling earrings visually elongate the neck. Even the most basic gold hoops or diamond studs dress up a casual outfit and create a smart, pulled together look. There are many earrings that will flatter your look and showcase your personal style and personality. In fact, there are so many earring designs that shopping for the right pair can be mind-boggling. This earring buying guide is designed to help you sort through the options with confidence.
Just like cosmetics and apparel, certain jewellery shapes and colors suit some face shapes and skin tones more than others. However, by considering your own face shape when you search for earrings, you'll find earrings that look great on you. Just remember that earring shapes should balance the face instead of matching it. Round hoops soften rectangular faces, but angular earrings emphasize sharp features. Follow these hints for individual features:
- Oval face:
Lucky you! If you have an oval face shape, you can wear almost any earring style. Hoops and triangles are especially flattering. However, triangles will emphasize a pointy chin.
- Round face:
Choose longer earrings with oblong or straight styles. Earrings with sharp angles balance the curves of the face. Avoid round and chunky earrings that sit on the ear lobe. For pretty gemstone earrings, consider the long chains with dangling gems.
- Square face:
hoops, ovals and small earrings look best. Avoid wearing short and chunky earrings; they make the face appear wider.
- Large/small/full:
Earring size is relevant to the size and shape of each individual's face. Chunky earrings that are fabulous on a tall woman may overwhelm a petite woman's features. Round and button styles add curves to a full face; and 3-inch chains or spikes drag down a long, skinny face. Again, balance is the key to a good fit.
- Skin color:
White gold earrings are popular right now, but yellow gold is still a classic style. Most people prefer one over the other, and many can wear both yellow and white metals. In general, white metals enhance cool skin tones and yellow metals enhance warm skin tones.
|
|
|
Types of Costume Jewellery Earrings |
|
Earrings are a popular jewellery piece worn by both women and men. Costume Jewellery pieces are made from a wide variety of different materials. An assortment of stones, beads, shells and other natural and synthetic materials are used to create scintillating and attractive costume earring jewellery designs, resulting in an amazing range of costume jewellery earing types, including:
-
Hoop earrings: These circular or semi circular ear rings are generally made of metal or plastic
-
Stud earrings: These ear rings appear to be sticking onto the earlobe without any visible connection or support. Studs are provided with a removable friction back or clutch
-
Dangle earrings: These earrings hang from the end of the earlobe and are available in varying lengths
-
Huggy earrings: These ear rings actually hug the earlobes and are available in varying shapes and designs
-
Clip on earrings: These ear rings do not require earrings and pinches on to the earlobe with the help of a tension clip
-
Stick on earrings: These earrings jewllery do not require ear piercing, the jewellery piece is sticked onto the earlobe with the help of skin friendly adhesive or tape
Various types of earrings are manufactured and designed from a range of materials. These earrings are widely sold in the international market. Since costume jewellery is a fashion driven product, earring manufacturers are using a mix of both exotic and durable materials that are not very expensive, for creating exclusive jewellery pieces.
A range of earrings are available in floral, geometric, animal figures, spiritual designs. Gold or silver plating is often done to give the jewellery piece a fine finish. Stone and crystal studded earrings are quite popular. Hoops and chandelier earring are also widely in demand.
|
|
|
Popular Types of Materials used in Costume Jewellery Earrings |
|
Costume jewellery Earings come in a wide range of designs incorporating a diverse range of materials.
 |
Metalic Earrings:
Metal ear rings are the most widely sold jewellery. They are manufactured using fine quality metals like stainless steel, Bronze, white metal both for formal and casual occasions. These metal ear rings are stylishly created in various designs to cater to the ever growing costume earrings world market. The designs are also made keeping in mind the age groups of the wearer. These metallic and trendy earrings are worn by both men and women.
|
 |
Shells Earrings:
Shell earrings are the latest fad to have hit the fashion conscious youth. These earrings are usually hand crafted and manufactured using different shapes shell and exclusive colors. These are often teamed with colorful beads for an exclusive look. Indonesia is one of the major manufacturers of shell based costume earrings. |
 |
Leather Earrings:
These ear rings are made from different types of skin friendly and soft leather. The earrings are often styled as hoops, danglers, studs, rings etc. The earrings are studded with stones and beads for creating dazzling designs. Hand painted leather ear rings are often in popular demand. Manufacturers are coming out with innovative designing for making long lasting jewellery pieces. |
 |
Terracotta Earrings:
Attractively carved terracotta earrings are available in traditional designs and bright colors. Ethnically designed danglers, hoops, studs are made and are hand painted for giving a distinctive look. These traditionally designed costume earrings are a rage in the international markets like USA, UK, Canada, South Africa, etc. |
 |
Plastic Earrings:
Plastic earrings are available in a wide and stunning range. These earrings are sold on a large scale in various countries across the globe. Molded plastic is often used for making exquisite designs of earrings for youngsters and old women. These earrings are generally worn for casual occasions and daily wear. China is one of the largest exporters of plastic earrings. |
 |
Glass Earrings:
Stained and clear glass are popularly used for making beautiful and fashionable earrings. These designer earrings are made in different styles, including studs, danglers, hoops in a variety of colors. The earrings can be worn on both formal and casual occasions. |
 |
Crystal Earrings:
Crystal ear rings are the most sold and sought after by customers all over the world. Synthetic crystals are often used in combination with other materials and beads, stones to create eye catching ear rings, hoops etc. These ear rings resemble fine jewellery ear rings but are much cheapest, hence the rising demand for such ear rings. |
 |
Stone Earrings:
Stone studded ear rings are very fashionable and chic. These earrings are designed for women of different age groups. A variety of semi precious stones are used for creating scintillating designs. Stones of different shapes, colors and sizes are finely polished for creating unique jewellery pieces. India is famous for manufacturing and exporting stone earrings to many countries in the Western Hemisphere. |
 |
Wooden Earrings:
Natural and rustic looking wooden earrings have been in vogue for a long time now. These ear rings are especially handcrafted to perfection and sold in countries including the USA, the UK, and Canada. These jewellery pieces are quite appealing and made in countries including India, Indonesia etc. |
 |
Beaded Earrings:
A complete range of beaded earrings made from glass, pearl, crystal, stones etc are made in countries like India, Italy, China and Indonesia. These specially crafted earrings are made in different styles, colors and shapes. |
 |
Jute Earrings:
Jute as a material for making jewelery is very popular. Jute Earrings are highly demanded in the fashion market. Elegantly crafted jute earrings are fast-moving items. There are lots of fantastic designs of jute earrings to suit all tastes. |
 |
Ivory Earrings:
Various designs are carved out of ivory to make earrings. Ivory carving is done either mechanically or manually to make earrings of various styles and sizes. Intricate carving on earrings are real treasure and popular among all women. |
 |
Lac Earrings:
Lac Earrings are beautifully designed and handcrafted to perfection. These earrings are also embellished with colorful stones, meenakari work, beads for a distinct look. Colored and mirror work lac earrings are also very popular. |
|
|
|
|
|
087 - 808 2382
|
RING 179

R180.00
|
RING 158

R345.00
|
RING 133

R132.00
|
RING 117

R163.00
|
RING 115

R136.00
|
RING 109

R180.00
|
RING 108

R204.00
|
RING 103

R236.00
|
RING 099

R204.00
|
RING 095

R180.00
|
RING 087

R180.00
|
RING 084

R275.00
|
RING 066

R188.00
|
RING 055

R320.00
|
RING 041

R204.00
|
JEWELLERY GIFT VOUCHER

R800.00
|
BRACELET 031

R175.00
|
BRACELET 029

R172.00
|
BRACELET 027

R174.00
|
BRACELET 013

R203.00
|
|