When you walk into a store or scroll through an online boutique, you’ll notice the dazzling world of fashion jewelry — beautiful necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings that look luxurious but come at affordable prices.
But have you ever wondered: What exactly is fashion jewelry made of?

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the materials, coatings, and stones used in fashion jewelry, how they differ from fine jewelry, and what to look for when choosing high-quality pieces that won’t tarnish easily.

What Is Fashion Jewelry?

Fashion jewelry, also known as costume jewelry, is made primarily from non-precious metals and synthetic materials.
Unlike fine jewelry, which uses gold, platinum, and real gemstones, fashion jewelry focuses on style, trend, and affordability.

It allows people to follow current fashion trends — think statement necklaces or layered chains — without spending a fortune.

Common goals of fashion jewelry:

• To complement daily outfits.

• To offer trendy looks at accessible prices.

• To mimic fine jewelry without the high cost.

Common Base Metals Used in Fashion Jewelry

Fashion jewelry usually starts with a base metal, which forms the structure of the piece. The base metal is then plated with another material for a shinier finish or added durability.

Here are the most popular ones:

1. Brass

• Most common base in fashion jewelry.

• Made of copper and zinc.

• Affordable, easy to mold, and durable.

• Has a warm yellowish tone similar to gold, which makes it a great base for gold-plated jewelry.

2. Copper

• Known for its reddish tone.

• Often used in bohemian or handmade jewelry.

• May cause mild skin reactions for some wearers, but it’s strong and affordable.

3. Alloy / Mixed Metals

• Many manufacturers use alloy blends (a mix of several metals) to achieve certain colors or hardness levels.

• Examples include zinc alloy or tin alloy.

4. Stainless Steel

• Gaining popularity in modern designs.

• Strong, resistant to rust and tarnish.

• Hypoallergenic — suitable for sensitive skin.

• Commonly used for men’s jewelry and minimalist designs.

5. Aluminum

• Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for statement earrings or large designs that need to stay comfortable.

Plating and Finishes: The Secret to Shine

Most fashion jewelry doesn’t use solid precious metals. Instead, it’s coated or electroplated with thin layers of materials like gold, silver, or rhodium to achieve a luxurious look.

1. Gold Plating

• A thin layer of gold (real or imitation) is applied over the base metal.

• Affordable and shiny, but may wear off over time.

• Available in shades like yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold.

2. Rhodium Plating

• A platinum-group metal used to coat silver or alloy jewelry.

• Adds brightness, scratch resistance, and a luxurious feel.

• Common in higher-end fashion jewelry.

3. Silver Plating

• Creates the same shine as sterling silver without the cost.

• Great for casual or trendy collections.

4. Enamel Coating

• A colorful, glossy layer applied for decorative effects.

• Popular in modern, youthful fashion jewelry lines.

Gemstones, Crystals & Decorative Materials

The “sparkle” in fashion jewelry usually comes from artificial stones or crystals, rather than natural gems.
Here’s what they’re made of:

1. Glass Stones

• Commonly used to imitate diamonds, sapphires, or emeralds.

• Easy to cut and color, offering a luxurious appearance at a fraction of the price.

2. Cubic Zirconia (CZ)

• A synthetic gemstone that closely resembles diamonds.

• Brilliant sparkle, affordable, and available in multiple colors.

• Used widely in mid-range fashion jewelry.

3. Resin and Acrylic

• Lightweight, colorful, and perfect for bold designs.

• Often seen in trendy or boho-style collections.

4. Crystal (e.g., Swarovski Crystal)

• High-quality lead glass crystals known for exceptional clarity and shine.

• Often used in premium fashion jewelry brands.

5. Pearls (Imitation or Freshwater)

• Imitation pearls made of glass or plastic are common in fashion jewelry.

• Freshwater pearls may be used in higher-end designs.

Other Popular Materials

Fashion jewelry isn’t just metal and stones — many creative materials are used to add style and texture.

- Leather or PU Leather:

Adds a modern, edgy look to bracelets or chokers.

- Wood & Shells:

Perfect for eco or boho collections.

- Fabric or Ribbon:

Used in statement necklaces or earrings for a soft, artistic touch.

- Plastic or Acrylic:

Ideal for lightweight, colorful fashion jewelry.

How to Identify Good-Quality Fashion Jewelry

Not all fashion jewelry is created equal. Some pieces tarnish or fade quickly, while others maintain their shine for years.
Here are some quick tips to pick durable, skin-friendly jewelry:

1. Check the Plating:
   Look for thicker plating like “gold-filled” or “PVD-coated” for longer-lasting shine.

2. Avoid Nickel if You Have Allergies:
   Choose “nickel-free” or “hypoallergenic” items — stainless steel is a great option.

3. Feel the Weight:
   Quality pieces usually feel slightly heavier and sturdier.

4. Look for Smooth Edges:
   Rough edges or unfinished backs often signal cheap manufacturing.

5. Ask About Coating:
   Rhodium or PVD coatings help resist tarnishing better than basic electroplating.

Where Is Fashion Jewelry Made?

Most of the world’s fashion jewelry is manufactured in China, especially in areas like:

• Guangdong (Guangzhou, Dongguan) — known for large-scale jewelry factories.

• Yiwu (Zhejiang Province) — famous for wholesale fashion jewelry markets.

• Qingdao and Shenzhen — centers for stainless steel and gold-plated jewelry.

Many global brands source directly from Chinese manufacturers due to:

• Competitive prices.

• Fast production.

• Custom design capabilities.

• Stable supply chains.

If you’re running a jewelry business or planning to start one, sourcing from China can help you scale quickly while keeping costs low.If you want to find Chinese manufacturers, you can visit: Top 10 fashion jewelry manufacturers in China

Final Thoughts: What Is Fashion Jewelry Really Made Of?

In short, fashion jewelry is made from affordable base metals like brass, copper, or stainless steel, combined with plated finishes, crystals, or synthetic stones.
It’s all about style, creativity, and accessibility — allowing anyone to express themselves without spending thousands of dollars.

So next time you buy a trendy necklace or statement earrings, you’ll know exactly what’s behind the sparkle — and how to choose pieces that last longer and fit your personal style.

Key Takeaways

• Fashion jewelry is made from non-precious metals like brass or alloy.

• It’s coated with gold, silver, or rhodium plating for shine.

• Stones are usually synthetic gems, crystals, or glass.

• Quality depends on plating thickness, coating type, and craftsmanship.

• China is the largest global supplier, offering wide options for sourcing.

If you're a consumer looking for world-renowned fashion jewelry brands, you can visit our article: Top 20 luxury jewelry brands in the world.

Qingdao OKA Arts and Crafts Co., Ltd (OKA Accessories) was established in 2013 and has worked with many of the leading UK and European retailers. 

OKA Accessories is a well-known fashion jewelry manufacturer from China. If you are looking to start a fashion jewelry business, please contact us to get competitive pricing.