Costume jewelry or fine jewelry: how to tell the difference?

Main portant une bague dorée texturée avec pierre fine blanche, bijou fantaisie artisanal inspiré de la nature, fait main à Paris.

What is costume jewelry?

Costume jewelry is a fashion accessory made from non-precious materials such as brass, stainless steel, resin, synthetic pearls, or rhinestones. These pieces are often gold-plated or gold-filled but do not contain a significant amount of precious metals.

They’re chosen for their style, originality, and affordability. Very popular in current fashion trends, they let you change your look with the seasons. However, their lifespan is more limited, especially if worn frequently or exposed to water, perfume, or humidity.

What is a fine (precious) piece of jewelry?

A fine piece of jewelry is made from noble metals such as gold (yellow, white, or rose), silver, or platinum, and is often adorned with precious stones (diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald) or semi-precious stones (quartz, amethyst, topaz...).

This type of jewelry is valued for its lasting quality and expert craftsmanship. It is often passed down from generation to generation and can represent both a meaningful gift and a long-term investment. Each piece is typically hallmarked to certify its authenticity.

Unlike fashion jewelry, the stones are set (not glued), the rings are soldered for greater durability, and the materials used do not rust, meaning the piece can be replated as often as needed without compromising its integrity.

Fine Jewelry vs Fashion Jewelry: How to Tell the Difference?

There are three key factors to help you distinguish between fashion jewelry and fine jewelry.

First, the materials: 18K gold (or more rarely, 24K) is dense, tarnish-resistant, and long-lasting, unlike gold-plated or base metals commonly used in fashion jewelry.

Second, the hallmark: a legal stamp engraved on gold or silver jewelry certifies the purity and authenticity of the metal.

Lastly, the price, weight, quality of craftsmanship, and the type of stones used also indicate whether a piece is fine jewelry or costume jewelry.

Discover LA LUEUR DE L’AUBE

At La Lueur de l’Aube, we blend the worlds of fantasy and fine jewelry to craft unique, artisanal pieces of exceptional quality. Imagined and handcrafted in our Parisian atelier, each design is inspired by nature, featuring organic textures and offered at accessible prices.

Sterling silver (925), 18k gold, or gold-plated: each metal is carefully selected to enhance the material and reveal timeless elegance.

Our collection includes customizable and bespoke pieces, designed to accompany life’s precious moments. White topaz, rose quartz, peridot, citrine… a curated selection of fine gemstones brings our creations to life, tailored to your desires.

Behind every piece, the hand of Makiko, our creator, breathes poetry, sensitivity, and brilliance into truly original jewelry.

The luxury of a handmade Parisian jewel, at an accessible price.