The Difference between Fine and Costume Jewellery

Costume jewellery can often be hard to distinguish from fine jewellery due to the professionalism of construction. Many precious metals can appear on costume jewellery in the form of plating, dipping and filling. However, when costume jewellery pieces are closely examined, it is obvious that the precious metal coatings can easily come off. This often reveals a number of metals below that do not fit into the category of precious metals.

This is the main difference between fine and costume jewellery; the quality of the metal used in the piece and the authenticity of the stones. It is not rare for fine jewellery to last generations and many people pass them down to family members. Fine jewellery is often considered an investment and many pieces are also collectors’ items.

Jewellery items that are considered fine jewellery are usually constructed of gold, silver or platinum; all of which are rare and expensive metals. Jewellery that is made of yellow or white gold needs to be at least 10 carats to be classed as fine jewellery, and they are usually offered as 10, 14 and 24 carats. Yellow gold tends to appear darker in colour when it is higher in carats. Whereas white gold will remain looking the same no matter how high the carat is. Gold that is higher in carats tends to be softer and scratches easier.

The stones that are set in costume jewellery are also a big giveaway to the value of the piece. Fine jewellery will only feature natural gemstones, of which have the correct visual, chemical and physical properties. Pearls are often confused, as many people are unaware that cultured pearls are natural, and therefore they are considered fine jewellery. The same goes with diamonds; if they are natural, they are considered fine jewellery. Many manufactured diamonds feature in jewellery pieces, though these are not considered as fine simply because they are not genuine or natural. An easy way to tell if a diamond is natural is to look at its compounds, as genuine diamonds consist of pure carbon.

Diamonds can also be lab-created. Though they have many of the same chemical properties as natural diamonds would, they have to be labelled as lab-created when sold. Unfortunately this means the selling price is significantly lower than natural diamonds, and the jewellery itself will now be worth as much in the future.

Though it may not be obvious upon first inspection, the methods used in order to tell the difference between fine and costume jewellery is quite simple. Costume jewellery will never be made of any precious metals, natural gemstones, diamonds or pearls. It is true, however, that both fine and costume jewellery pieces can look spectacular, and buying costume jewellery can often save the consumer a lot of money. Nevertheless, if you are looking for jewellery that is going to increase in worth as it ages, fine jewellery is the only option.

At Cuttings, we have a range of second-hand fine jewellery and watches available. Whether you’re looking for the perfect set of diamond earrings or an 18ct gold pearl pendant, you can visit us in store today for more fine jewellery available to view.

For more information, you can get in touch with a member of the team here.