Sometimes, it is easy to get confused about fashion or luxury jewelry in the fashion world. To complete a look, consumers add many components to an outfit, especially in women’s fashion. It could be a scarf, shoes, handbag, bracelets, and more. But what makes these pieces “fashion” rather than fine jewelry?
Fashion Jewelry vs. Fine Jewelry
1) Price
The biggest difference between fashion and fine jewelry is price. Fashion jewelry is much more affordable than fine jewelry. That is because fashion jewelry is made with less expensive materials, like metals, glass, and plastic. Fine jewelry is made with gems and precious metals, making it more expensive. For instance, fashion jewelry such as rings or necklaces might cost anywhere from $20-$2000, while fine jewelry starts at $850 depending upon how much gold/platinum/diamonds each piece has but can go up quite a bit higher than $10, 000.
2) Maintenance
Maintenance will be minimal for fine jewelry, while fashion jewelry should be handled to maintain its appearance. Fine jewelry, made of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, does not require polishing or cleaning because it has a natural luster that resists tarnishing. These pieces are meant to last forever, so they are designed to withstand harsh conditions without losing shape or shine. In contrast, fashion jewelry is made from base metal alloys finished with a thin layer of precious metals, making them more prone to losing color when exposed to chemical elements in perfumes and cosmetics. To keep your fashion jewels looking fresh, you should avoid contact with water to prevent rusting metal components and use polishing cloths to keep them looking bright.
3) Weight
Fine jewelry and fashion jewelry differ when it comes to weight. Fine pieces are made of metals such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. These precious metals weigh more than their less expensive counterparts, which is why it takes a greater amount of time to design with them. They also possess a solid feel which makes them extremely durable and long-lasting.
In comparison, fashion jewelry is generally made from base metal alloys finished with a thin layer of precious metal: gold plating, silver plating, or rhodium coating. They feel lighter than fine jewelry, and some large pieces can be quite flimsy and easily bend out of shape if you do not handle them appropriately. Additionally, the colored agents used on fashion jewelry do not sparkle like genuine gemstones or diamonds under direct light.
4) Sparkle
Fine jewelry is generally made with precious metals, semi-precious stones, and alloys designed to last forever. Fashion jewelry can be found in almost any retail store and usually consists of base metal alloys finished with a thin layer of precious metal: gold plating, silver plating, or rhodium coating. The finish can wear off quickly over time, and the coloring agents used will fade out after repeated use. Since fashion jewelry is manufactured to look pretty on one’s hand for a short period, it may contain inferior materials such as glass beads and acrylic rhinestones that do not sparkle like genuine gemstones or diamonds under direct light.
5) Volume
Another big difference between fashion and fine jewelry is volume. While both types of jewelry have high-end designs, they appeal to very different audiences. Fashion has a larger market because people looking for moderately priced items are more likely to spend their money on them. For example, fashion jewelry is often mass-produced with costs kept low by using machines. In contrast, fine jewelry appeals to customers who are willing to spend a lot of money for quality pieces that they can wear on special occasions. Because of this nature, many fine pieces are made one at a time in small quantities.
The Wearability of Each Type of Jewelry
The wearability of both jewelry depends on personal preference and what the jewelry will be used for. Some people believe that fashion jewelry should only be worn for special occasions, while others think it can be worn daily. The same applies to fine jewelry; some people believe it should only be worn on rare occasions, while others think they can wear it daily.
There are a few factors to consider when deciding when to wear fashion jewelry and fine jewelry. The first is the occasion. Fashion jewelry is often more casual and less formal than fine jewelry, so it may not suit more formal occasions. Fine jewelry is often more elegant and sophisticated than fashion jewelry, meaning it may be better suited for special occasions like weddings or galas.
The second factor to consider is the outfit. Fashion jewelry is often more colorful and eclectic than fine jewelry, so it may not be a good match for more understated outfits. Fine jewelry typically features simpler designs and smaller gemstones, so it can be worn with a wider range of outfits.
The third factor to consider is personal preference. Some people feel more special when they wear fine jewelry, while others prefer the more casual look of fashion jewelry. Ultimately, the best time to use fashion jewelry or fine jewelry is when it makes the person wearing it feel their best.
In summation, the best time to use fashion jewelry or fine jewelry depends on the individual. If you’re unsure which type of jewelry is right for you, it’s always best to consult with a jeweler. They will be able to help you find the perfect piece of jewelry for your needs and preferences.
