Is Costume Jewelry worth any money nowadays?

September 25, 2025 - Costume jewelry has been a fashionable and collectible accessory for decades, with certain pieces gaining significant value over time. From vintage designer pieces to rare limited editions, some costume jewelry items have appreciated due to their craftsmanship, brand, and demand. Is there a market for Costume Jewelry? One aspect of costume jewelry collecting that many people are unaware of is the potential monetary value of certain pieces. The market for costume jewelry has fluctuated over time, influenced by collector interest, brand recognition, and rarity. Designer pieces, signed vintage jewelry, and high-quality materials tend to hold strong resale value, while mass-produced or generic pieces may not fetch high prices.

The Market For Costume Jewelry

The market for costume jewelry remains strong, with dedicated collectors and fashion enthusiasts driving demand. However, the demand for costume jewelry is weak unless it is in "Mint Condition" and includes original packaging, authentication marks, or provenance. Broken, heavily worn, or unbranded pieces typically hold less value. Estate sales, online marketplaces, and auction houses serve as primary trading venues for high-value costume jewelry.

Factors Affecting Price

Condition is crucial when determining a costume jewelry piece’s value. Pieces in near-mint condition with original settings and minimal wear will fetch significantly higher prices than those with missing stones, tarnishing, or repairs. Brand and signature also play a major role—designer brands such as Chanel, Trifari, and Miriam Haskell are highly desirable. Materials impact value as well, with costume jewelry featuring high-quality rhinestones, gold plating, and artisan craftsmanship attracting serious collectors. Historical significance and limited-edition releases further influence market trends.

Buying and Selling Costume Jewelry

For those interested in buying and selling costume jewelry, authenticity and condition are key. Ensuring that a piece retains its original components and verifying authenticity through reputable sources is crucial, as reproductions and altered pieces can diminish value. Market trends fluctuate, and certain items may increase in value over time while others remain stable. Knowledgeable collectors can find profitable opportunities through vintage jewelry shops, estate sales, and online auctions.

Who buys Costume Jewelry today?

Collectors, vintage fashion lovers, and jewelry investors continue to drive the market for costume jewelry. However, as older collectors downsize their collections, demand for specific styles may shift. High-end buyers seek rare and designer-signed pieces, while casual collectors look for affordable yet stylish vintage jewelry. Despite changing trends, interest in costume jewelry remains strong, particularly for limited-edition and historically significant designs. Not all costume jewelry has monetary value, but some remain highly sought after. Examples include rare designer collaborations, Hollywood-inspired pieces, and high-quality mid-century designs.

Top 5 Costume Jewelry Pieces to hunt for

1. Chanel Gripoix Glass Jewelry – Highly collectible, often selling for $5,000+.


2. Miriam Haskell Vintage Sets – Handcrafted designs, valued at $2,500+ for complete sets.


3. Trifari Crown Collection Pieces – Iconic mid-century costume jewelry, with pieces reaching $500+.


4. Eisenberg Original Brooches – Pieces from the 1930s can reach as high as $2,500+.


5. Schreiner New York Statement Necklaces – Bold designs with high demand, valued at $2,000+.

Learn More About The Value of your Costume Jewelry

iGuide’s appraisal service is a good way to discover the value of your costume jewelry. Learn more.