The term "costume jewelry" is spelled as /ˈkɑːstuːm ˈdʒuːəlri/. The word "costume" is derived from the French word "costume" meaning "dress" or "suit," and "jewelry" is from the Latin "jocale," meaning "plaything." In phonetic terms, the emphasis falls on the first syllable of both words, with a long "oo" vowel sound in "jewelry." The spelling of "costume jewelry" refers to decorative jewelry made of inexpensive materials and intended to complement fashionable clothing or costumes.
Costume jewelry refers to decorative accessories that are made from inexpensive materials rather than valuable gemstones or precious metals. Also known as fashion jewelry or imitation jewelry, it is designed to be worn as adornments to complement an outfit or for decorative purposes. Costume jewelry is typically made using materials such as glass, plastic, beads, synthetic gemstones, or non-precious metals like brass or plated alloys. These materials are used to mimic the appearance of genuine gemstones, diamonds, gold, or silver.
The primary characteristic of costume jewelry is its affordability, making it accessible to a wider range of consumers who may not have the means to purchase fine or luxury jewelry. It is often mass-produced, allowing for a variety of designs and styles to be made available at lower price points compared to their high-end counterparts. Costume jewelry may include necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, brooches, or any other type of jewelry typically worn for decorative purposes.
While not as valuable or durable as fine jewelry, costume jewelry can serve as a fashionable accessory or an affordable alternative for those looking to enhance their personal style without making a significant financial investment. It allows individuals to experiment with different designs, colors, and styles, and to keep up with ever-changing fashion trends without breaking the bank.
The word "costume jewelry" originated in the early 20th century and is a combination of the words "costume" and "jewelry". The term "costume" in this context refers to an outfit or attire worn for a particular occasion or performance. "Jewelry" refers to decorative items worn for ornamental purposes.
The term "costume jewelry" was first used to describe jewelry pieces that were made specifically to complement or match a particular costume or outfit. Unlike fine or precious jewelry made from precious metals and gemstones, costume jewelry was typically made from inexpensive materials such as glass, plastic, base metals, or non-precious gemstones.
Over time, the term "costume jewelry" has expanded its meaning to refer to any type of jewelry that is not considered fine or high-end. It is often used to describe fashion accessories that are affordable, trendy, and designed to complement various fashion styles and outfits.