The History of Costume Jewelry

Jewelry has been worn for thousands of years. In ancient civilizations, jewelry signified status and royalty. Today jewelry is worn as an accessory to complete an outfit and accentuate our style and personality. The term costume jewelry dates back to the 1920s.

In the early 1900s, we experienced new innovations in production. American jewelry was mass-produced in large numbers, making stylish jewelry available to people of all classes.

Many people call fashion designer Coco Chanel the innovator of costume jewelry. Her jewelry combined real stones and fake stones that resembled precious gemstones. Her jewelry complemented the fashions she made popular like the flapper style and comfortable sportswear.

1930s

During the Great Depression consumers cut back on their spending. As a result, manufacturers started making fashion jewelry using stylish materials that were affordable. The dress clip gained popularity during this time. Women used them to dress up their thrifty wardrobes.

During World War II costume jewelers began integrating patriotic symbols, such as the American flag, into their jewelry. As the economy recovered, consumers had more money in their pockets and the demand for jewelry increased. Hollywood movie stars also popularized big, bold styles.

In the 1950s and 1960s women wore more tailored pieces, such as charm bracelets, bangle bracelets and pins. Bright colors and rhinestones were also popular at this time.

Modern Day

Today, costume jewelry combines the colors, materials and styles that were popular in previous decades.

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