The Differences Between Costume Jewellery and Silver Jewellery

The term 'Costume Jewellery' means that the item is plated and not a precious metal (i.e. Silver, gold or platinum). Most costume pieces is plated in either an 18ct gold or Rhodium finish. The base metals are either brass or tin alloy with two layers of copper then one layer of palladium followed by either of the above finishes.

Most costume items are made from Rhodium. Rhodium is a metal from the Platinum family, it is the most expensive and durable white metal known. Silver has been very popular for making beautiful pieces for many centuries and has become extremely popular since the mid 1700s. It is actually a very soft metal in its purest form and requires a mix with an alloy such as copper to make it hard and suitable for everyday use.

Silver is often made using 925, which means that 925 parts in every 1000 are pure; this represents an excellent quality product. It is hallmarked as proof of quality.

In the US, the laws state that Jewellery cannot be sold as silver unless it contains at least 92.5 percent pure. Many people expect silver to retain its colour forever, but it often tarnishes when it reacts with gases in the air or with other substances that it comes in contact with.

Many people are allergic to the Costume Jewellery because the alloy reacts with the acidity in their skin. This often makes the skin go green and may result in itching. Although many modern items are designed to be hypoallergenic many people choose to only wear silver because they can be certain their skin will not react.

Silver Jewellery does not look as vibrant and shiny as rhodium plated pieces and the best combination is plating silver items with rhodium. This results in a wonderful shine, similar to costume but at the same time providing protection from any allergies.

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