What Are the Three Main Types of Jewellery?

What Are the Three Main Types of Jewellery?

When you think about your jewellery box, you probably see a mix of favourites, a necklace you wear almost every day, earrings that only come out for weddings, and that bracelet you swear you’ll wear more often.

But did you know that all jewellery falls into three main categories?

Knowing the difference isn’t just fun trivia. It can help you shop smarter, style better, and build a collection you’ll actually wear.

1. Fine Jewellery

Fine jewellery is the top tier. Think solid gold, platinum, and genuine gemstones. These are pieces you can pass down, and they hold value over time.

They’re the investment items of your wardrobe. You don’t throw them on the dresser after a long day; you store them carefully, you clean them gently, and you bring them out when you want a “nothing else matters” kind of moment.

2. Fashion Jewellery

Also called costume jewellery, these are pieces made from less expensive metals and stones, often gold-plated or silver-plated over brass, copper, or stainless steel.

Fashion jewellery is where trends live. Want to try bold hoops, chunky chains, or colourful gemstones without committing to the price tag of fine jewellery? This is your playground.

Our bestselling stacks, layered necklaces, and playful statement pieces fall right here, perfect for experimenting with your style every day.

3. Semi-Fine Jewellery

Sitting comfortably between fine and fashion jewellery, semi-fine is a sweet spot. Usually gold-filled or gold-vermeil over sterling silver, sometimes with real but smaller gemstones.

You get the look and longevity of fine jewellery with the accessibility of fashion jewellery, meaning you can wear it often without the constant “will it tarnish?” worry.

If you love pieces that last longer than one season but still feel trend-relevant, this is your match. Many CurioClass collections use high-quality plating and materials that give you that semi-fine durability.

Why It Matters When You Shop

Understanding the type of jewellery you’re buying changes how you treat it and how long it lasts.

  • Fine: store in a lined box, clean gently, and insure if valuable.

  • Fashion: avoid moisture, perfumes, and rough handling.

  • Semi-fine: treat it like fine jewellery for best results, but enjoy wearing it often.

The right mix in your collection means you’re ready for anything, coffee runs, boardrooms, parties, and everything in between.

Start paying attention to which category each piece belongs to, and you’ll notice how much easier it becomes to style outfits, shop with intention, and actually wear what you own.

And if your collection feels like it’s missing that one piece that pulls it all together… you know where to look.

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