More fashion jewelry, less logic from HSN

Tacky, Made in China, and $149.95

For those of you not educated in the terminology for jewelry, fashion jewelry is non-precious “throw away” jewelry. Some fashion jewelry becomes highly collectible because of its quality and design, but most is just crap. Most shoppers prefer at least a Sterling Silver base for longevity and intrinsic value. Fashion Jewelry also has plastic or lucite beads instead of real gemstones, although this varies from piece to piece. Moving on…

When the majority of us on the HSN forums want silver, vermeil, technibond, or gold, (non-fashion jewelry) they have come out with 5 new lines of fashion jewelry. (It’s not even nice enough to call it costume.) Yes, I buy a piece of costume every now and then, but not from HSN and it has to be very unique, special, and priced right. I thought silver was getting cheaper? Technibond has less new styles, more expensive prices, and disappointing designers. Also, is it just me, or are the gems getting opaquer? Personally, I like the opaque look more, but it disappoints me to know that the main reason theyre doing it is to cut costs.

As a side note, wouldnt it be interesting if they made more body jewelry with technibond? Like CBRs, navel rings, etc? I have a septum (I know most of you will say you hate it) but I’ve always wanted a gold filigree retainer for it .. I’m starting to think I’ll have to make it myself. Nobody who does good gold-over-silver makes body jewelry. I think they are missing out on a small, but growing market. Body jewelry isnt just for teens anymore, in my opinon.

Anyway, moving on .. what does everyone think of the new “silvertone/goldtone” brands?

Grayce by Molly Sims
M. Wynne
Robin by Me&Ro .
VALESKA
Roberta Chiarella

The only jewelry I saw that wasnt costume was that horrendously overpriced Carol Brodie. Interesting selections, but anyone that buys does not understand the value of gemstones.