Is Vivienne Westwood Jewelry Worth It? My Honest Review and Alternatives

I've always been drawn to unique and eye-catching jewelry. Vivienne Westwood's designs, with their punk rock edge and iconic orb logo, have definitely caught my eye. I was so excited to finally buy a necklace, but I wanted to do my research first. Was it really worth the investment?

My Vivienne Westwood Jewelry Dilemma

Like many, I've been tempted by the allure of a Vivienne Westwood necklace. I started looking at their 925 silver rings, but something held me back. I’ve heard stories about how even diamonds don't always retain their value when resold. This got me thinking about the long-term value and quality of Vivienne Westwood pieces.

I even went to a boutique to see the mini bas relief choker in person, a necklace I had been dreaming about for over a year. To be honest, I was pretty disappointed. The orb itself looked great, but the "pearls" looked, well, cheap. It made me question the materials used and if the price tag matched the quality. I also noticed that the metal piece was described as "silver toned metal" which gave me concerns about tarnishing.

Uncovering the Truth About Materials

I dug a little deeper and discovered some interesting facts. I learned that many Vivienne Westwood jewelry items, especially the mini bas relief choker, use "silver toned metal" for the metal parts and Swarovski glass pearl beads. While Swarovski crystals are beautifully cut glass, they aren't genuine pearls and can be bought for a fraction of the cost. I also found out that the brass pieces are likely to fade in color over time. This made me question the value proposition even more. I wanted something that would last and not quickly lose its luster.

This led me to explore other options, and I began to appreciate brands that focus on natural stones and high-quality materials. I was searching for something with a bohemian flair, and I stumbled upon a beautiful necklace that caught my eye.

My Alternative: The Tenande Bohemian Necklace

I was looking for something unique, bohemian, and made with natural materials. I wanted something that felt special and authentic, not just a trendy piece. I found the perfect alternative with the homepage, Blingcharming's Tenande Vintage Bohemian Natural Stone Beads Peace Dove Water Droplets Clavicle Chain Necklace. I was immediately drawn to its unique design and natural stone beads.

I ordered the Style 25 version and was pleasantly surprised by the quality. The natural stone beads have a beautiful, earthy feel, and the peace dove and water droplet charms add a touch of whimsy. It feels much more substantial and unique than some of the mass-produced fashion jewelry I've seen. I've worn it several times, and I always receive compliments. Plus, I love that it's a little different from what everyone else is wearing.

For better results, check out this Blingcharming necklace. It has a unique design and natural stone beads that make it a special and authentic piece. This Tenande necklace is a great Valentine's Day gift.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Fashion Jewelry

Before you make a purchase, I think it’s important to think about a few things:

• Material Quality: What is the jewelry made of? Is it base metal, sterling silver, or something else? Knowing the materials will help you understand how it will wear over time.
• Pearl Type: Are the pearls genuine, freshwater, or simulated? Simulated pearls, like Swarovski glass pearls, look nice but don't have the same value or longevity as real pearls.
• Tarnish Resistance: If the jewelry is made of silver or brass, will it tarnish easily? Consider pieces that are plated or treated to resist tarnishing.
• Price vs. Value: Does the price of the jewelry match the quality of the materials and craftsmanship? Sometimes, you're paying for the brand name rather than the actual value of the piece.
• Ethical Considerations: Is the brand committed to ethical sourcing and production practices? This is especially important for brands that use natural materials like pearls and gemstones.

Tips for Choosing Long-Lasting Jewelry

Here are some things I've learned to look for when buying jewelry that will last:

1. Opt for Sterling Silver or Gold-Filled: These materials are more durable and tarnish-resistant than base metals.
2. Choose Genuine Stones: Natural gemstones and pearls will hold their value and beauty over time.
3. Read Reviews: See what other customers have to say about the quality and durability of the jewelry.
4. Consider the Design: Classic designs tend to be more timeless than trendy pieces.
5. Proper Care: Clean and store your jewelry properly to prevent tarnishing and damage.

The Pros and Cons of Vivienne Westwood Jewelry

To help you decide if Vivienne Westwood jewelry is right for you, here's a quick breakdown of the pros and cons:

Pros	Cons
Unique and iconic designs	Can be expensive for the materials used
Vegan-friendly brand (no leather used)	Some pieces use low-quality base metals
Wide range of styles available	"Pearls" are often Swarovski glass beads

My Final Thoughts

Ultimately, whether or not Vivienne Westwood jewelry is "worth it" depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you love the designs and don't mind the materials used, then it might be a worthwhile purchase for you. However, if you're looking for high-quality materials and long-term value, you might want to explore other options. I found that exploring other options, like the Tenande necklace from Blingcharming, can lead to discovering beautiful and unique pieces that better suit your style and budget.

I've learned that it's important to do your research, understand the materials used, and consider your own personal style before making a jewelry purchase. I hope my experience has helped you make a more informed decision!