There will never be a replacement for real gold, platinum, and precious stones. However, women today are supplementing their jewelry collections with high quality costume jewelry. Costume jewelry was once thought to be “junk jewelry” and lower quality pieces are still considered such. However, a number of designers have begun to produce pieces that are well made and quite eye-catching. These pieces also offer something new and different to those who have grown tired of their existing jewelry and crave new options.

The use of natural stones in costume jewelry has become a pronounced trend in 2012. Natural stones are appearing on rings, necklaces, and bracelets. Gemstones, which are widely available and each unique, are being used to create create pieces that draw attention. This is often done through the use of larger stones. When combined with any number of metals, gemstones steal the show.

Pendants are also taking center stage this season. These provide yet another opportunity to own jewelry that is unique. Pendant style vary greatly, with many representing a specific theme. Vintage style pendants are a popular choice, as what was old is indeed new again. Vintage styles are often being seen on a jewelry piece that is making a strong comeback, the brooch. Brooches, which had fallen out of favor with fashion conscious women, have cycled back into popularity. These include Victorian styles, as well as ultra modern styles.

Of all the costume jewelry trends of 2012, handmade jewelry is by far the most notable. The reason for this is simple. Women crave jewelry that is entirely unique, and handmade creations are just that. Handmade jewelry is made available on popular websites such as Etsy (http://www.etsy.com/), as well as on the websites of individual designers. The internet provides jewelry lovers and creative designers with a way to come together. This has made a huge impact on the number of designs and styles that are now available. It has also had an effect on how costume jewelry is viewed.

In the world of high quality costume jewelry, bigger is better. Rodriqo Otazu, jewelry designer, offers a collection that includes large pieces. Argentinian born Otazu now creates pieces in his studio in Amsterdam. His creations have been a sensation in Europe for quite some time, but are now also be noticed in North America. The number of “Sold Out” pieces on his website (http://www.otazudesigns.com) is a testament to how popular his jewelry creations are.