Non-precious metal and
Rhinestone jewelry had a hay-day during the period of the 1920’s
through the 1940’s. Rhinestone jewelry had made a big comeback!
The average person could now own a great looking piece without
the cost of fine gems and metals. This new type of jewelry used
metals like Nickel Silver, Pewter, Rhodium and Pot metal. The
Rhinestones were man-made gemstones from highly refined glass.
In 1891, Daniel Swarovski developed a new glass-cutting machine
that mechanically cut faceted glass. Costume jewelry was off
and running for the second time!
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additional Color Palettes & Details...
The first time
costume jewelry was in fashion was around the thirteenth century.
It was a common practice with the rich to use Rhinestones (also
known as paste gems) and base type metals to have reproductions
made of the family jewels to wear to functions. The priceless
gems were kept in safe keeping while the “costume jewelry”
was worn regularly to social events. Who would have known?
Vintage Filigree
Bracelet was inspired by the bangles of the early 20th Century.
Most of the examples were made from Pot metal which was a mix
of metals that were all thrown into one pot. This piece is made
out of Herringbone open work that is then filled in with faux
gems. The closure of the bracelet smoothly flows into a shaped
Herringbone tab and toggle.
On
to the Elizabethan Workshop...
