The difference between fine jewelry and costume jewelry can be quite simple: it comes down to the materials it’s made with. Costume jewelry, also known as fashion jewelry, is usually made with base metals such as brass or steel. Costume jewelry has a small lifespan and is prone to breaking, fading or discoloring. Costume jewelry often has poor quality, as it’s mostly made by machines and/or in China. Fine jewelry is used to describe jewelry made of only gold, sterling silver, platinum, or other precious metals. Fine jewelry may come at an elevated price point, but the excellent craftsmanship, value and longevity of these pieces are well worth the investment.