One thing that has made vintage jewellery accessible to the general public today, was the emergence of costume jewellery from the 1960s onwards. You can now buy genuine 60s costume jewellery which is readily available from Etsy (such as my own shop called Swaby Collections), Ebay, and at physical vintage shops.
1960s magazine ring advertisement – Vendome.
Costume jewellery became more readily available in the 60s due to increased industrialisation and mechanisation in the production of jewellery. Such jewellery in and of itself became an art form due to the many influences, designers and was free to be worn daily without the risks of losing precious jewels and metals. New jewellery making materials such as plastic and Bakelite meant that designers could use colours which were not usually seen in precious jewellery. It also meant that influences from different countries such as Egyptian bib necklaces and the large statement earrings, bracelets and necklaces from more southern African countries could be reproduced.
Bakelite bracelets, image taken from Plastics Make it Possible.
We also owe the 60s credit for the emergence in the popularity of semi-precious stones such as malachite, crystals and turquoise. We can also thank the hippy movement for the popularisation of such jewellery pieces, with semi-precious stones being much used in spiritual practices.
1960s Malachite necklace, image taken from Toadstool Farm Vintage.
In essence, we can thank the 60s for bringing us the vast and ever-changing costume jewellery choices we have today. The design of costume jewellery in the 60s was a complete departure from the order and stability of early twentieth century jewellery design and it is the reason why we have the opportunity to show our true personalities via our jewellery choices today.
1960s Mosell Egyptian revival bib necklace.
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