What you need to know about Fine, Semi-Fine, Demi-Fine, and Fashion Jewelry
- I. Fine Jewelry
- II. Semi-Fine Jewelry
- III. Demi-Fine Jewelry
- IV. Fashion Jewelry
- V. Why Shop at Gold Palace
Fine Jewelry
We're busting the myth that fine jewelry should be reserved for special occasions: engagements, graduations, birthdays, etc. In reality it's also a great option for people who like to wear their jewelry 24/7 and don't want to worry about taking their jewels off when they sleep, shower or workout.
Fine jewelry is always made with solid gold and typically features genuine stones. Rings in the fine jewelry category can be re-sized and repaired easily by any skilled jeweler.
Fine jewelry requires less care than semi fine and fashion jewelry, but it also has a significantly higher price tag since gold is one of the most expensive metals on earth. Since solid gold doesn’t turn or tarnish, it’s the longest lasting option.
Semi-Fine Jewelry
Semi-fine jewelry is the category that bridges the gap between fine jewelry and fashion jewelry. Semi-fine jewelry is typically made with gold vermeil (an extra thick layer of gold plating) or gold fill jewelry. This category of jewels is often made with genuine stones such as aquamarine, opals, morganite, etc. but one thing that sets semi-fine jewelry apart from fashion jewelry is that the base metal used is typically sterling silver, so even under the gold plated or vermeil layer is a high quality metal that will stand the test of time. This is great for anyone who has allergies to other metals like brass or nickel. You will also see a lot of semi-fine jewelry that is made with lab created or enhanced stones as these have similar visual properties to genuine stones but with a lower price tag.
It's important that semi-fine or gold plated jewelry not be worn in the shower, pool, to sleep or when working out. You should also take care when applying lotions because water and oils can cause gold plating to wear down over time. Jewelry that falls into the semi-fine category should be reserved for pieces that are fashion forward but not expected to last a lifetime. This category of jewelry is one of our favorites as it allows us to offer a wide range of on trend jewelry at affordable prices.
- You can find more Semi-Fine Jewelry here
Demi-Fine Jewelry
Demi-Fine Jewellery is the new kid on the block, making waves for its affordability and modern style. Bridging the gap between semi-fine jewellery and fashion or costume jewellery, demi-fine jewellery is made using gold-plated silver or low-carat gold combined with semi-precious stones.
Demi-Fine Jewellery is all about modern luxury, capitalising on the ‘more is more’ trend of stackable rings and mixed textures, with unique contemporary designs.
Demi-Fine pieces don’t usually mimic the style and look of Fine Jewellery – it’s more for those who love the look of modern pieces but want something that’ll last longer than the $2 Kmart earrings they picked up last week.
- Headpieces
Maang Tikka
The maang tikka is a piece of traditional Indian jewelry for women that is worn on the head. It is an elegant headpiece that consists of a metallic chain that is linked to a pendant on the end. Adorned with different embellishments, stones, and ornate designs, this piece of Indian jewelry can be considered the crowning jewel of any bride’s wedding ensemble.
One unique distinguishing feature of the maang tikka is its placement. Maang tikkas are worn along the hairline and they are one of the most noticeable pieces of jewelry that a bride can wear on her special day. They are generally worn at the middle parting of the hair and accentuate the face of the bride with different precious stones and metals. The chains of the maang tikka also serve as a complementing component to the headpiece.
Aside from being a beautiful piece of jewelry, the maang tikka also holds cultural significance. In Indian culture, the central portion of the forehead is believed to hold the sixth chakra (third eye) that holds the power of the soul that is responsible for preservation.
Jhoomar
The jhoomar is another essential piece of Indian jewelry that is worn on the left side of the head. Its use traces back to the arrival of the Mughals and was adapted for use by brides in North India. It has Islamic influences and is a gorgeous addition to any bride’s wedding ensemble. Traditionally, the jhoomar has a semicircular design that has a likeness to the crescent moon. It has evolved through the years has now and taken up a more modern design with different stone settings and materials.
Like the maang tikka, the jhoomar is also an elegant headpiece for formal occasions. It is worn on the side of the head and attached to the bride’s hair, accentuating her temple. This is another exquisite piece of jewelry with an ornate design usually studded with precious stones. Pearls can also be seen dangling from the ends of the jhoomar, adding flair and charm to this traditional piece of jewelry.
The crescent moon of the jhoomar also has a symbolic meaning. The changing moon phases symbolize the changing emotions of a human being which is controlled by the left side of the brain, thus the placement on the left part of the head. Symbolically, the jhoomar is worn by the bride to keep her control of emotions as she enters a new chapter in her life.
The Benefits of Fine, semi, demi Jewelry
- Long lasting
- Requires less care
- Can be worn everyday without tarnishing
Fashion Jewelry
Fashion jewelry, also referred to as gold plated jewelry or costume jewelry, is usually made by adding a layer of gold on top of a base metal. The most common base metal in gold plated jewelry is brass, but other base metals include copper, bronze, and zinc. Other kinds of materials, like beads, leather, and acrylic, also fall into the fashion jewelry category. Fashion jewelry most commonly uses simulated or synthetic stones (like cubic zirconia or simulated opals) as opposed to natural gemstones, lowering the cost. Since fashion jewelry doesn’t use precious metal as a base (like silver) and has less gold content, it’s a much more affordable option.
The same care should be taken when wearing fashion jewelry as semi fine jewelry, and since the gold plating on fashion jewelry is thinner, you should take even more care to remove your jewels before coming into contact with water, oil, or sweat.
- You can find more Fashion Jewelry here
Why Shop at Gold Palace
Over the decades, Gold Palace has built a reputation for offering the world’s most unique and valuable gold jewelry. Each item on our website was lovingly crafted and carefully selected by our jewelry experts for our customers to enjoy. From exploring our site, to opening the box, and wearing your jewelry, each moment is a special experience. We want you to stay in awe and in love as you wear our accessories and timeless heirlooms for years to come.
Now that you know the difference between fine, semi fine, and fashion jewelry and GOLD PALACE, shop our bestsellers to see a mix of all three!
About Gold Palace
One of the World’s Oldest Online Jewelry Shops
Gold Palace has been in the jewelry business since 1994, providing high-quality 22k gold South Asian jewelry. We understand the value of fine jewelry that is why we aspire to give our customers only the best deals.
Our collection of 22k, 18k, and 14k gold with precious stones is made by highly-skilled artisans who know what it takes to make truly spectacular jewelry. We only use the best materials and the finest 22k and 18k gold sourced from the top producers in the world including India, Dubai, and Singapore. We make our artisanal creations available to jewelry lovers and aficionados all over the world through our website.
Shop with confidence as we only offer jewelry that is made of true gold and VS1 diamonds. Gold Palace carries more than 500 unique and often limited jewelry with designs that ranges from traditional Indian bridal jewelry to more modern timeless styles that will surely be at home in anyone’s prized collection. Our elegant and sophisticated pieces are designed and made in order to satisfy even the most discerning collectors.
At Gold Palace, our aim is to make you happy with your acquisition. We only partner with the most talented and skilled craftsmen in order to bring you the best jewelry that can be passed on to the next generations. Our website also offers secure and hassle-free shopping so you can enjoy the thrill of the hunt.
We are one of the oldest online jewelry shops that carry the tradition of fine artisanship and world-class luxury.
