Girls' Costume Jewellery

Costume jewellery for girls: how to choose and care for it

Girls’ costume jewellery is very on-trend. While it makes a wonderful gift, many people find it tricky to choose the right pieces. And looking after them properly is a real question mark — yet it’s the secret to enjoying them for longer. Discover what costume jewellery really is, and find out how to choose and care for it.

Girls’ costume jewellery: what is it?

Hoops, charm bracelets, quirky earrings — costume jewellery has become hugely popular and is now everywhere. The difference between traditional fine jewellery and costume jewellery lies in the materials. Classic jewellery uses:

• Silver
• Precious stones
• Gold, etc.

As for girls’ costume jewellery, it is made from simpler materials. The aim of costume jewellery is to nurture children’s desire to wear pretty things. But bear in mind, it is above all a fashion accessory. Costume jewellery must therefore keep up with current trends. Costume jewellery has grown in popularity because of a need for:

• Originality
• Creative freedom
• Joyful whimsy

Girls’ costume jewellery is a big hit for two reasons: it’s on-trend and affordable.

How to recognise quality costume jewellery?

Let’s look at the main factors that help identify a good piece of costume jewellery.

Authenticating girls’ costume jewellery

Check the materials listed first and foremost. A credible seller always provides the characteristics of a piece of jewellery — whether in a physical shop or an online store. Costume jewellery is now available in sterling silver 925. You’ll also find gold-plated pieces. Originality and quality are their hallmarks. Girls’ costume jewellery made from copper doesn’t last long. The same goes for brass and steel pieces. They discolour and are fragile. Distortion can also occur over time. Precautions are needed to protect these pieces — keep them away from water and light. Avoid buying girls’ costume jewellery containing lead. This material causes allergies. The law prohibits lead as a component in jewellery. Cadmium and nickel are also banned.

Watch out for misleading labels

The term ‘solid silver’ is overused. It is even used to deceive. When a piece of jewellery has the word ‘silver’ in its name, check that the description confirms this. Otherwise, ‘silver’ may simply refer to the colour of the costume jewellery. You will often come across these terms for silver:

• Solid silver
• Silver-plated
• 925 silver

For gold, you will often hear:

• Gold-plated
• Fine gold-plated
• x-carat gold, etc.

In the expression ‘x-carat gold’, x refers to a number. You’ll certainly have heard ’18-carat gold’ before. The carat is the unit that indicates the quality of gold. Silver is called ‘solid’ when it contains at least 92.5% pure silver. Solid silver is also known as ‘Sterling Silver 925’.

Stone and zirconia: telling the difference

Diamonds and crystals aren’t the only things that sparkle. Attention often turns to girls’ costume jewellery featuring stones and strass in cubic zirconia. These synthetic stones perfectly imitate precious gems. Their brilliance resembles that of real stones. Zircon and cubic zirconia refer to a natural stone. These terms are often misused. Some people use them to describe cubic zirconia stones. Zircon is used in high-end jewellery. Where diamonds are unavailable, it is used to adorn pieces. Be sure to distinguish zircon from cubic zirconia. That said, cubic zirconia has an incredible look. It is highly brilliant and long-lasting. It is a great way to add value to costume jewellery. Cubic zirconia is indeed a convincing substitute for precious stones. If you want the real thing, consult a specialist who can help you tell the difference. Here is another term to be wary of: crystal. Many online shops pass off cubic zirconia as crystal. Crystal is a glass containing lead oxide at around 10%, sometimes reaching up to 32%. You now know the essentials about girls’ costume jewellery. Let’s now look at how to protect it.

Girls’ costume jewellery: protection and care

So what about caring for your little one’s costume jewellery? Some people look after costume jewellery as if it were made of precious metals — and that is absolutely the best approach. Though inexpensive, girls’ costume jewellery has real charm. On Little Pirates, find THE original piece of jewellery that will delight your child. Earrings, pendants, chains, beads — you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for, whatever the style, material, age, size or colour. Be charmed by our zodiac sign necklaces, perfect with any look. Or how about the heart-shaped princess pendant necklace with its metal cord? For special occasions, your daughter will love our princess jewellery sets, available in pink, yellow, blue/green and purple — lovely with a little white or black dress. Unfortunately, costume jewellery has a reputation for wearing out too quickly. Oxygen and humidity can alter the appearance of these delicate pieces. Unsightly marks appear. Here are some tips to keep your jewellery looking great for longer.

Store jewellery in a dry environment

Costume jewellery is mostly made from materials that are vulnerable to moisture. Avoid any splashes of water. Remind your daughter to remove her ring or bracelet before washing her hands. Creams and lotions of all kinds should not touch costume jewellery. Set them aside before applying anything. Wait for your cosmetics to dry before putting jewellery back on. Being active isn’t just for boys — and when your daughter gets going, she perspires a lot. It’s best to remove her jewellery in that case.

A coat of nail varnish

A coat of nail varnish is enough to protect girls’ costume jewellery. This protection keeps pieces safe from oxidising elements. Do be careful though — these varnish coats can chip. Reapply a coat of clear nail varnish. Varnish coats insulate the materials well and also prevent deposits on the skin.

Other protection methods

Special sprays are available for maintaining costume jewellery. They can be pricey, but they are effective and long-lasting. They spare sensitive skin from the allergenic effects of certain materials. Protective sprays also preserve the shine of your jewellery. Even tarnished pieces regain their lustre. Use jewellery storage boxes to protect your treasures from air and dust. Remember to remove your daughter’s jewellery before she goes to bed. She’ll sleep better, and the pieces will be less likely to get bent or broken. Be careful with volatile cosmetics — powders and perfumes can damage jewellery. Clean girls’ costume jewellery regularly to keep it looking its best. This prevents dirt from building up, so your child can enjoy her treasures for much longer. Don’t wait any longer — shop on Little Pirates now.