Figuring out the quality of the metals and the gemstones is all it takes to determine whether a piece of jewellery is considered fashion jewellery or fine jewellery. We’re walking you through the definitions that expert authenticators use when it comes to assuring the quality of jewellery so that you know what to look for when shopping for new additions to your jewellery collection.
Fashion Jewellery
Fashion jewellery, also referred to as costume jewellery, is typically made with base metals and simulated stones. These pieces are often made with brass, copper, or aluminium, which bend and tarnish easily. Jewellery made entirely out of textiles or leather, base metal alloys, and even metals plated with precious metals like gold or silver also fall into fashion jewellery. Simulated stones include plastic stones, cubic zirconia, and Swarovski crystals.
Some jewellery enthusiasts will insist upon a middle category called “semi-fine,” which is reportedly characterized by jewellery that’s made with gold vermeil or is gold-filled. “Semi-fine” jewellery is additionally made with real gemstones that are far more affordable, like morganite and opals, or “enhanced” stones, which are treated with heat or chemicals in a laboratory to appear clearer or more flawless or to change the colour of the stone.
The “semi-fine” category may be useful for jewellery makers to more accurately compartmentalize their jewellery, but it is not a standard by which experts and authenticators measure jewellery. In the eyes of an expert, “semi-fine” jewellery is still considered fashion jewellery because of its incorporation of base metals—again, the materials that make the item.
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Fine Jewellery
Fine jewellery is solely manufactured from precious metals such as solid gold, silver, platinum and palladium. This kind of jewellery often uses natural precious and semi-precious gemstones like Diamonds, Rubies, Sapphires, Citrines, Garnets, Amethysts, Morganite etc. Because it’s made entirely of solid precious metals and gemstones, fine jewellery is so much stronger than fashion jewellery and will not tarnish with proper care and storage. In addition to that, fine jewellery can be repaired. Fine jewellery may come at an elevated price, but in truth, the value and longevity of these pieces are well worth the investment.
If you’re confused about where designer jewellery falls between these two categories, simply look at the composition of the piece. Some designers do raise prices on fashion jewellery simply because of the association with the brand name, making it seem as though a low-quality piece is actually worth more. Most brand names only produce high-quality pieces made of precious metals and genuine gemstones. Do pay attention to hallmarks on your jewellery to figure out whether it’s fashion jewellery with a fancy brand name or truly fine jewellery.
If you are interested in investing in fine jewellery but are deterred by the price tag, you should definitely look into buying pre-owned. You get all of the high-quality materials and excellent craftsmanship at a much more reasonable price.
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