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

I've always been drawn to unique and eye-catching jewelry. When I first saw Vivienne Westwood necklaces, I was immediately captivated by their edgy, rebellious style. The iconic orb pendant, the punk aesthetic – it all screamed "me." But before dropping a considerable amount of money, I wanted to be absolutely sure it was a worthwhile investment. Turns out, my journey involved a bit of research and a healthy dose of reality.

My Vivienne Westwood Jewelry Dilemma

Like many, I was initially drawn to the Vivienne Westwood brand for its unique designs. I was particularly interested in their silver rings and the iconic orb necklace. But the price tag gave me pause. I started wondering if the secondhand market might be a better option. I’d heard that even diamonds don't always retain their value, so I wondered if a Vivienne Westwood necklace would fare any better. I started digging around to see what others were saying.

The Reality Check: Quality Concerns

My research led me to some interesting discoveries. I learned that much of Vivienne Westwood jewelry isn't made of precious metals like solid gold or sterling silver. I even went to a boutique to see one of the necklaces in person. I had been dreaming about it for a year. The orb looked great, but the pearls looked, well, cheap. That was a huge disappointment. I started looking into what materials were actually used.

I discovered that many of the pieces, including the popular mini bas relief choker, use "silver toned metal," which is essentially a base metal. This means it's prone to tarnishing and discoloration over time. The "pearls" on many necklaces are often Swarovski glass pearl beads, which, while beautiful, aren't high-quality, genuine pearls. This information definitely influenced my decision-making process. It's important to understand what you're paying for.

Exploring Alternatives: My Search for Style and Value

While I was disappointed about the material quality, I still loved the aesthetic. I began searching for alternatives that offered a similar punk-inspired vibe but with better materials and potentially a lower price point. That's when I stumbled upon something that caught my eye.

I found this HNSP Punk Cross Chain Necklace Pendant from Blingcharming. The cross design gave it a similar edgy feel to some of the Vivienne Westwood pieces, but the price was significantly lower. It wasn't trying to be a Westwood dupe; it had its own unique style.

The HNSP Punk Cross Chain Necklace Pendant - a stylish alternative.

I decided to give it a try. When it arrived, I was pleasantly surprised. It wasn't trying to be anything it wasn't. It was a well-made, stylish piece that fit perfectly with my personal style. I was happy to find a necklace that gave me the aesthetic I wanted without breaking the bank.

I also found out that, depending on where you are in the world, the materials used for Vivienne Westwood jewelry might vary. The composition is usually listed clearly on the product page. Brass, for example, will definitely fade over time. If you're worried about tarnish, look for pieces made from 925 silver.

What I Learned About Vivienne Westwood Jewelry

From my research and personal experience, here's what I learned about Vivienne Westwood jewelry:

• Design is Key: The brand is known for its unique and rebellious aesthetic.
• Material Matters: Pay close attention to the materials used. Many pieces use base metals and Swarovski glass pearls.
• Price vs. Value: Consider whether the price reflects the quality of the materials.
• Alternatives Exist: Don't be afraid to explore other brands and styles that offer a similar vibe at a better price point.

Pros and Cons of Vivienne Westwood Jewelry

Pros

• Unique and recognizable designs
• Vegan-friendly brand (no leather bags)
• Statement pieces that add edge to any outfit

Cons

• Can be overpriced for the materials used
• Base metals are prone to tarnishing
• "Pearls" are often Swarovski glass beads, not genuine pearls

Tips for Buying Jewelry: Beyond Vivienne Westwood

Here are some general tips I've learned for buying jewelry, regardless of the brand:

1. Know Your Metals: Understand the properties of different metals like sterling silver, gold, and base metals.
2. Read the Description: Always check the product description for material information.
3. Consider Your Lifestyle: Think about how often you'll wear the piece and how well it will hold up to daily wear and tear.
4. Read Reviews: See what other customers have to say about the quality and durability of the jewelry.
5. Shop Around: Compare prices and styles from different brands and retailers.

My Final Thoughts

Ultimately, whether or not Vivienne Westwood jewelry is "worth it" is a personal decision. If you love the designs and are willing to accept the potential quality limitations, then go for it! However, I encourage you to do your research and consider all your options. Don't be afraid to explore alternative brands and styles that offer similar aesthetics at a better value. I'm happy with my Blingcharming find, and I love the punk vibe it brings to my style. For more stylish options and to explore your own unique jewelry journey, visit the homepage. Remember, jewelry is an expression of yourself, so choose pieces that make you feel confident and happy. When considering your next jewelry purchase, remember to check the materials used, especially if you have sensitive skin or want something that lasts a long time.

I own two Vivienne Westwood necklaces. One is the mini bas relief choker (in gold), and the other is a version of the orb pendant that they don't make anymore. I bought one, the other was a gift. I think it's worth noting that Vivienne Westwood is famously a more vegan brand. None of her bags are leather. None of the materials used in her jewelry are animal derived, making her a brand I'm happy to support.