Why a Costume Jewelry Necklace Is a Must-Have Accessory

Whether layered pendants or bejeweled collars, a costume jewelry necklace adds an instant burst of color and shimmer to your ensemble. With roots dating back to the early 20th century, this genre of fashion jewellery offers a whole new way to add timeless sparkle to your look.

While fine jewelry often relies on precious metals and gems, costume jewelers embrace less costly materials like glass, plastic, and metal alloys. The result is a range of stunning aesthetics that are bold, colorful, and often inspired by the natural world. Whether it’s an amethyst-inspired necklace or a textured bangle bracelet, these pieces elevate everyday looks and offer a playful alternative for special occasions that call for a pop of sparkle.

The first true modern costume jewelry took hold in the 1920s as French couturiers Madeleine Vionnet and Paul Poiret accessorized their couture dresses with fake pearls and crystal beads. This sparked a style trend that would explode with the advent of mass manufacturing and mechanization, which brought down production costs and opened the market to an array of aspiring designers. Coco Chanel, in particular, became known for creating trend-driven costume jewelry season after season.

While skepticism has surrounded the industry, especially in regard to human rights issues and the presence of toxic metals like lead and cadmium, costume jewelry has become a thriving subculture with thousands of dedicated collectors around the world. From vintage Garlan chains to sculptural corsages, there’s something for everyone in this expansive category that celebrates glamour and maximalism.