Is Chanel Costume Jewelry Worth Buying?

Read all about Chanel’s costume jewelry to find out if it’s really worth the high price tag

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If you’ve ever watched a Chanel runway show, then you’ve definitely noticed accessories like statement pearl necklaces, CC motif earrings, and bright resin bracelets. These items, and many more, make up the Chanel Costume Jewelry collection.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything there is to know about Chanel Costume Jewelry to help you decide if spending money on these pieces is worth it.

What is Chanel Costume Jewelry?

In contrast to Chanel’s High Jewelry and Fine Jewelry lines, its Costume Jewelry collection is made up of trendy, less expensive pieces designed to give outfits an extra oomph without a hefty price tag.

The line includes earrings, rings, brooches, bracelets, necklaces, and rings. All of these items are made using inexpensive materials like leather, ribbons, resin, glass gemstones, and non-precious metals.

Some of the most recognizable pieces of Chanel Costume Jewelry are long pearl necklaces, CC stud earrings, and camelia brooches.

These items are frequently showcased in Chanel runway shows and advertisements.

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What is the History of Chanel Costume Jewelry?

Coco Chanel is responsible for introducing the idea of costume jewelry in the 1920s when she started accessorizing her outfits with fake pearls.

For her, fake pearls and other big, flashy jewelry were a way to accessorize and accentuate a look without a visible display of wealth. She went on to note that costume jewelry is not meant to provoke desire, but rather to astonish and amuse.

By the 1930s, Chanel’s costume jewelry line expanded to include all types of jewelry meant to complement the brand’s fashion. Some items of clothing even came with jewelry attached!

The affordability of these items meant that women could accessorize Chanel’s minimal clothing with layers of jewelry without having to worry about the cost or theft of real jewels.