Welcome back to the H. Moradi Jewelers’ blog! Our blog is the place to learn about all things jewelry — both practical and interesting. In our last blog post, we discussed some of the steps to take to determine the worth of your jewelry. In another previous post, we talked about Victorian jewelry and propensity of designers to include symbolism in their pieces. Today, we are going to dive back into the books of history to discuss the origins and evolution of costume jewelry.
Costume Jewelry is For the Everyday Woman
Costume jewelry refers to the early 20th century term “costume” which meant what we would call an “outfit.” This type of jewelry differs from fine jewelry in that costume jewelry is for the sake of completing an outfit; the primary purpose of fine jewelry is as collectables, keepsakes, or monetary investments. Usually, costume jewelry is made with rhinestones, lucite, pewter, silver, nickel, brass, and other non-precious and inexpensive materials.
A Little History
The origins of costume jewelry could be said to go as far back as 300 years ago. However, most would say that the 20th century was the moment in history when the idea of costume jewelry took off. During this golden age of costume jewelry, pieces worn by actress such as Bette Davis, Vivien Leigh, Elizabeth Taylor, and Jane Russell could finally be worn by the everyday woman; copies of such pieces were easy to replicate due to advances in machinery and technology. Heirloom pieces were even replicated. Women of all classes could decorate themselves with fashionable jewelry.
Styles By Time Period
During the 1900s, time periods were defined by their style, and the costume jewelry, as was to be expected, mirrored or complimented those styles.
Art Deco (1920s-1930s)
The art deco period is one still beloved by many modern jewelry wearers today who wear art deco-influenced jewelry. This period was known for the idea of combining the convenience of mass production and balancing that harsh design with art and design. Characteristics of the art deco era include:
- Curves paired with geometric and symmetrical shapes
- Long necklaces with pendants, bangles, and cocktail rings
- Highly designed cigarette cases and holders were also popular
The art deco period was cut short with the onslaught of the Great Depression and World War II.
Retro Period (1935-1950)
Retro pieces incorporated some of the same pieces mass produced like that could be found in the art deco era. However, these pieces were combined with natural materials as well. Most pieces of this time period were created by American jewelers or European jewelry makers who wished to escape the stagnated economic climate of their countries. Jewelry of this time period tended to have these characteristics:
- Emanated glamour and sophistication with elegance
- Hollywood style
- Flowers, bows, sunbursts, moonstones, horses, and ballerinas
- Military influence
- Bakelite and plastic were popular jewelry materials
The retro period was all about being big and bold.
Art Modern Period (1945-1960)
As is typical those influential designers of the art modern period grew tired of the big and bold designs of the retro period and created pieces marked by traditional and understated lines. While remaining understated, jewelry of this time was also lavish, large, chunky, and bold in their own way. Popular items include:
- Chunky bracelets and charm bracelets
- Poodle pins
- Christmas jewelry including Christmas pins
- Rhinestones, jade, opal, citrine, and topaz
As the art modern period advanced, so did the designs of the time become more influenced by hippie culture.
Today’s Costume Jewelry
If you shop at any typical mall or modern retailer, you can still find a wide variety of costume jewelry that reflect some of the most popular trends of the modern day, made from materials including non-precious metals, crystals, beads, rhinestones, leather, feathers, wood, and glass. Women have been able to expand their own personal style with jewelry boxes heaping full of jewelry.
Ready to Clean Out Your Jewelry Box?
Are you ready to breath new life into your jewelry box? It may be time to speak to the jewelry buyers of H. Moradi Jewelers in La Jolla. We offer competitive prices for all types of valuable jewelry as well as luxury watches and engagement rings. Visit our website to learn about selling your jewelry for cash or trading it in for something new or stop into one of our two locations in La Jolla.