Something about costume jewelry

Although cheap jewelry existed before the 20th century, the peak production of costume jewelry began in the 1930s in Europe, and is often attributed to the emergence of the middle class. This type of jewelry was made mostly of metal, vermeil (gold leaf glued to the silver) and sterling silver set with semi-precious stones (topaz, amethyst, peridot, citrine, coral ...), some organic materials and enamels.

In 1930, the rhinestones (from the bottom of the glass powder coated silver or silver leaf to imitate diamonds) were very popular in Europe. Jewellery in general reflects the materials, techniques and fashions of the period.

The design and materials used in costume jewelry can often identify the period in which they did. For example, some types of combs, perfume bottles and clips were in the dress of 1930. The Art Deco period jewelry and later the back are easily recognizable by their sophisticated style and appearance.

Vermeil jewelry is mainly used during the Second World War, due to the scarcity of gold. Today, the styles of the early days to be very popular. Unfortunately, many of the pieces produced today do not have the vitality and quality of the originals.