Costume jewelry is sometimes referred to as "fake jewelry" by some well meaning but unknowing individuals. Costume jewelry is crafted from among other items, rhinestones, glass stones and gold plated metal or sterling silver. Costume jewelry first surfaced in United States around early twenties; it was very popular among European immigrants that settled into states during this time. Movie stars and common folk alike wore costume jewelry that was carefully crafted and ornamentally designed.

Costume jewelry, particularly antique pieces, are well worth their weight in gold. Many hand crafted pieces can fetch thousands of dollars on open market. There are some designers that are more well known than others in world of costume jewelry:

• Napier
• Nettie Rosenstein
• Ciner
• Hattie Carnegie
• Miriam Haskell

Even celebrities currently invest thousands of dollars on costume jewelry every year. Because unique pieces are harder to come buy and rarely mass produced anymore, some pieces created in early 30s to late 40s can be hard to find. More common are pieces that were created in 1960s or later. Costume jewelry is fun in part because wearer is at liberty to make a bold statement. Not modest, most costume jewelry shouts out "here I am, look at me!" An excellent choice for bold and daring, costume jewelry can be a wonderful accessory to just about any wardrobe.

Costume jewelry collecting has even become a favorite pastime among many jewelry enthusiasts, much like beaded jewelry trading and collecting. The appeal of both of these styles is their uniqueness and diversity. Though in some instances hard to find, costume jewelry can be easily explored via online shopping. When buying online, be sure to have in mind a price range and style before shopping. The selection available online might leave you a bit overwhelmed.

If you collect costume jewelry, you might be wondering just how much it is worth. Just as there are popular designers for look and feel, some designers work is more valuable than others, including:

• Ciner
• Marel Boucher
• Eisenberg
• Hobe
• Kramer
• Vogue
• Hollycraft
• Monet
• Coro
• Kenneth J. Lane

These precious gems are often marked when crafted.

Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

Cubic zirconia jewelry has to be among most popular inexpensive "knock off" jewelry items to buy. Part of appeal of cubic zirconia jewelry is its remarkable ability to look exactly like real diamond jewelry. Most cubic zirconia is hard to distinguish from its natural cousins.

The widespread use of cubic zirconia became popularized around 1980s, when it first became mass produced. It is created through a chemical process that combines zirconium oxide and yttrium oxide, which when melted together form a radiant and shiny crystal resembling a natural diamond.

Most cubic zirconia jewelry is very durable, brilliant and long lasting. Some people have to look at a cubic zirconia under a powerful magnifying glass to distinguish it from a real diamond, a testament to its quality and aesthetic appeal. If you are looking for a clear, brilliant and inexpensive option to traditional diamond jewelry, don't hesitate to shop a wide selection of cubic zirconia jewelry. Buying online provides most advantages, because there is a wider selection and you have ability to customize your pieces with click of a button.

Pricing

Silver charms and gold charms may run anywhere from $2 all way up to $2000 depending on materials charm bracelets are made from. You can purchase chains or starter charm bracelets without any dangles for $20 or less price range in most cases. Less expensive versions crafted of sterling silver with one charm can be purchased. The more expensive charms are usually gold charms crafted of 18k gold with diamonds and other precious gems embedded in charm.

Italian charm bracelets $10 to $100 or more depending on quality and charms included. Their affordability makes them very popular among younger consumers, who are interested in investing in trendy jewelry that won't break bank.

Price will also vary depending on number of charms that come pre-fashioned with a particular piece of jewelry. Keep in mind that with charm bracelets, you can start with as little as 1 charm or buy into a bracelet that has several charms pre-selected. The choices are literally endless when it comes to charm jewelry.

Building a Unique Charm Bracelet

Anyone can create their own unique charm bracelet, whether Italian style or traditional. If you can't find something that exactly fits your needs and personality, why not create your own? Crafting individualized charm jewelry is increasingly popular among jewelry fans young and old alike. You can even create your own personalized family heirloom thanks to versatility charm jewelry has to offer.

Before you begin you'll need to decide whether you want an Italian style or traditional bracelet; remember that traditional style holds charms that dangle, while Italian version has charms that are embedded in chain links.

Once you decide this you can decide on a starter chain bracelet. There are literally hundreds of different starter bracelets to choose from. Consider your personal preferences. Do you prefer look of gold or silver? Perhaps you like a combination of both? You'll also want to have an idea of what size starter bracelet you need. Often you can tell this by measuring your wrist. You can do this by taking your thumb and middle finger and wrapping around your wrist. If your two fingers just touch, you'll probably need a medium. If they overlap, a small charm bracelet will work best for you. If your fingers do not touch, then you'll likely need a large.

Once you have decided on a type of chain and sizing, you can begin selecting perfect charms! Consider a theme, charms that represent personal interests, places you'd like to travel to, or hobbies.

Remember that charm bracelets are a fun and unique way of buying or making jewelry that expresses your style and personality in a unique way!