When it comes to Jewelry ~ Quality Does Matter!
The Difference Between Costume/Fashion Jewelry and Luxury Jewelry: Why Quality Matters
Jewelry has long been a symbol of personal expression, love, and even status. But when it comes to choosing the perfect piece, many shoppers find themselves torn between costume/fashion jewelry and luxury jewelry. While both have their place in the world of accessories, understanding the key differences can help you make an informed decision, ensuring you invest in pieces that truly reflect your style and values.
At Blackberry Designs, we pride ourselves on offering luxury jewelry that stands the test of time. Our handcrafted charm bracelets, non-tarnish jewelry, and timeless designs are not just accessories—they are heirlooms in the making with stories to tell. It's time to explore the distinct differences between costume/fashion jewelry and luxury jewelry, using Blackberry Designs Jewelry as the gold standard for quality and craftsmanship.
What is Costume/Fashion Jewelry?
Costume, or fashion jewelry, is typically made from inexpensive materials like base metals (often plated with a thin layer of gold or silver), plastic, glass, or synthetic stones. The focus is usually on trendy designs that are mass-produced and meant to be worn for a season or two before being replaced with the next fashionable item. Sadly, most of this jewelry is headed for our landfills, which is detrimental to the environment.
Key Characteristics of Costume/Fashion Jewelry:
- Materials: Often made from low-cost materials such as brass, aluminum, or plastic. The metals used are typically plated, which means they can easily tarnish, chip, or fade over time.
- Longevity: Designed to be worn for a short period, costume jewelry is not built to last. The materials used are often prone to damage, and the pieces may lose their luster or break after minimal wear.
- Price Point: Generally affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers. However, the low cost often reflects the low quality.
- Perception: Viewed as disposable and trendy, with a focus on style over substance. It’s great for those who want to stay on trend without breaking the bank but lacks the durability and value of luxury pieces.
What is Luxury Jewelry?
Luxury jewelry, on the other hand, is crafted from high-quality, durable materials such as gold, silver, platinum, or in the case of Blackberry Designs, 316L stainless steel. This type of jewelry is designed to last a decade or more, often becoming cherished heirlooms that are passed down through generations.
Key Characteristics of Luxury Jewelry:
- Materials: Luxury jewelry is made from premium materials like precious metals, genuine gemstones, and pearls. At Blackberry Designs, we use 316L stainless steel, real freshwater pearls, genuine gemstones like Amethyst, Carnelian, Garnet, and Austrian Crystals. Our pieces contain no plated metals, ensuring they remain beautiful and untarnished for years.
- Longevity: Built to withstand the test of time, luxury jewelry is an investment. Our non-tarnish jewelry is designed to last a decade or more, maintaining its beauty and integrity even with frequent wear.
- Price Point: While luxury jewelry comes with a higher price tag, it reflects the quality of materials and craftsmanship. These pieces are not just accessories—they are investments in quality and timeless style.
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Perception: Associated with exclusivity, elegance, and enduring value. Luxury jewelry is often seen as a symbol of status and a testament to one’s taste and appreciation for quality as these statement pieces are cherished and worn year to year. Always fashionable, never trendy.
Explore our luxury collection today!
Why choose Blackberry Designs Jewelry?
At Blackberry Designs, we believe that luxury should be accessible, and that quality craftsmanship speaks volumes. Our jewelry is not just about making a statement; it’s about telling a story—your story.
1. Handcrafted with Quality Craftsmanship for 22 years:
Each piece of jewelry at Blackberry Designs is handcrafted, ensuring that no two pieces are exactly alike. This dedication to craftsmanship is reflected in the reviews from our customers, who appreciate the attention to detail and the unique, personalized touch that our jewelry provides.
Stacey W.:
"The craftsmanship is stunning! Every charm is meticulously detailed, and I love that my bracelet is one-of-a-kind. I wear it every day, and it still looks as beautiful as the day I got it. Truly timeless!"
2. Non-Tarnish Jewelry:
One of the biggest concerns with costume jewelry is its tendency to tarnish, fade, or lose its appeal over time. At Blackberry Designs, we only use 316L stainless steel, which is known for its durability and resistance to tarnish. Our jewelry is designed to look as stunning years from now as it does today.
Julie M.:
"I’ve had my Blackberry Designs charm bracelet for over five years now, and it still looks brand new. No tarnishing, no discoloration—just pure, lasting beauty!"
3. Real Materials, Real Value:
We don’t use glass or plastic in our jewelry. Instead, we incorporate real freshwater pearls, genuine gemstones like Amethyst, Carnelian, Turquoise, and Austrian Crystals into our designs. This commitment to using real, high-quality materials ensures that our jewelry is not only beautiful but also valuable.
Sarah L.:
"I’m so impressed with the quality of the materials. The freshwater pearls are stunning, and the amethyst stones have such a rich color. You can tell that these pieces are made to last."
 
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 4. Timeless Design:
Unlike costume jewelry, which is often tied to fleeting trends, our designs are timeless. We create pieces that you can wear today, tomorrow, and decades from now. Our charm bracelets, in particular, are a customer favorite, allowing you to express your unique style while adding a personal touch to your collection.
Emily R.:
"I love how timeless and elegant my bracelet is. It goes with everything, and I get compliments on it all the time. It’s the perfect blend of classic and modern."
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 5. An Investment in Quality:
When you purchase jewelry from Blackberry Designs, you’re not just buying an accessory—you’re making an investment. Our pieces hold their value over time, and many of our customers have found that their jewelry is resold at estate sales, eBay, Poshmark, and other platforms for nearly the same price as they originally paid. This is a testament to the lasting quality and desirability of our designs.
Jessica H.:
"I was amazed to see that pieces from Blackberry Designs are being sold at estate sales and online for almost the same price I paid. It’s proof that this jewelry is not only beautiful but also a smart investment!"
 Luxury Jewelry is the Best Investment
Choosing between costume/fashion jewelry and luxury jewelry ultimately comes down to what you value. If you’re looking for trendy, disposable pieces, costume jewelry might fit the bill. But if you’re seeking timeless, handcrafted designs that hold their value and last a lifetime, luxury jewelry is the way to go.
At Blackberry Designs, we’re proud to offer jewelry that not only looks beautiful but also tells a story—your story. With our commitment to quality materials, non-tarnish finishes, custom sizing and timeless designs, we invite you to experience the difference that luxury jewelry can make.
Explore our collection today and discover the perfect piece that’s as unique and enduring as you are. SHOP NOW!