Surprisingly, fashion, or "costume" jewelry is making a comeback in a big way. Art Deco, Art Noveau, and Bakelite pieces are gaining popularity and can even cost more than some modern day jewelry that contains precious stones. If you want to purchase fashion jewelry for fun, go for it! Most pieces do not contain precious stones and are not composed of high quality metal. Typically, less expensive stones on the spectrum including rhinestones and crystals are the mainstays of fashion jewelry.

However, there are some older pieces that are so exquisitely made and include precious stones. If you want to start a valuable collection that may turn a profit in a few years, read on to learn about sought after fashion jewelry designers. Many pieces will have a seal of stamped representing the designers pieces.

Albert Weiss (1940s-1970s) Albert Weiss and Co. created a low and high end line of costume jewelry, some of which are now collector's items.

Miriam Haskell (1920s-2000s under new company) Noted for detailing, elaborate filigree, and asymmetrical designs. Jewelry by Haskell also appears as Haskell Jewels Ltd.

Hobe (1800s-1990s) A family company designing pieces of museum quality fit enough for royalty.

Coro (1900s-1970s) Noted for tremblers and crowns, Coro offers some of the most popular jewelry on the market.

Ciner (1892-present) Ciner made fine jewelry until the 1930s, and then switched to making costume jewelry.

Marcel Boucher (1930s-present) Boucher designed for Cartier in the late 1920s and started his own business in the 1930s.

Trifari (1918-present) Trifari made jewelry for Broadway shows from the 1930s through the 1960s. The "Crown Pin", first made in 1941, is a hot item.