Lucite jewelry is seen in a wide array of colors, cuts and designs, although the main composition is a hard type of acrylic or plastic. Typically designed as fashion or costume jewelry, Lucite is often used for making rings, bracelets, necklaces and other trendy accessories. A popular type of Lucite jewelry is retro or vintage style, reminiscent of pieces worn during the 1940s. Some designs of Lucite jewelry are replicas of authentic crystals or diamonds that were worn by glamorous movie stars of yesteryear.
When making Lucite jewelry, fashion designers will often incorporate intricate faceting to add luster and brilliance to the cut. Made to resemble faceted diamonds and crystal, the pieces are then synthetically enhanced through a coloring process. The dying process gives the jewelry the appearance of genuine gemstones, such as the deep blue sapphire, London blue topaz or blue-green aquamarine. Other synthetic gemstones in Lucite jewelry include amethyst, emerald and ruby colored pieces. Some Lucite jewelry designs are colorless or transparent.
Similar to the process of cutting diamonds and gemstones, Lucite jewelry is often created in various types of cuts. Popular choices include the princess cut, emerald cut and the pear cut, also referred to as a teardrop shape. The marquise cut is often seen in solitaire Lucite rings and pendants. The acrylic or resin used for making Lucite jewelry is relatively easy to work with, as it is a durable material that does not usually shatter when cut. Jewelry made of Lucite may also be embedded with tiny colorful beads or designs, adding greater dimension to the piece.
Contemporary Lucite and vintage Lucite share similar characteristics, although there are a few features that differentiate the two. Many vintage-style Lucite pieces will be set in sterling silver or gold tone. It’s common to find vintage jewelry in a clear or solid color, whereas the contemporary designs are often seen in a dazzling array of rainbow colors. Confetti styles incorporate glittering multi-colored flecks throughout the jewelry, and are popular for making bracelets.
Lucite is not only used for making rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets, but for creating unique fashion accessories as well. Some fashion designers use Lucite for embellishing their handbags or shoes. It’s common to find fashion boutiques offering Lucite hairpins and barrettes, or even eyeglass frames. In addition, children’s fashion jewelry such as bangle bracelets is often made with Lucite because it is so durable.