Understanding the Difference: Fine, Demi-Fine, and Fashion Jewellery
When it comes to jewellery, the terms fine, demi-fine, and fashion often appear side by side. Each represents a different approach to materials, craftsmanship, and price point. Understanding these distinctions not only helps you choose wisely but also ensures your jewellery aligns with your values, lifestyle, and the role you want it to play in your life.
At BY TONIN, our focus is demi-fine jewellery, a considered middle ground that blends refinement, durability, and accessibility. Here’s a closer look at each category.
Fine Jewellery
Fine jewellery represents the highest tier, crafted from solid precious metals such as 14k, 18k, or 22k gold, platinum, or sterling silver. Genuine diamonds and natural gemstones are commonly featured. These enduring materials and expert craftsmanship make fine jewellery suitable for daily wear and passing down as heirlooms.
- Materials: Solid gold, platinum, sterling silver, genuine diamonds, natural gemstones
- Craftsmanship: Designed and finished for enduring quality
- Longevity: With care, these pieces can last generations
- Investment: Higher price point due to material value and craftsmanship
- Brand examples: Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Bvlgari, Van Cleef & Arpels
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When to choose fine jewellery: For milestone occasions, heirlooms, or jewellery you want to last decades.
Demi-Fine Jewellery
Demi-fine jewellery bridges the space between fine and fashion, offering refined craftsmanship, lasting quality, and accessible luxury. At BY TONIN, this is our focus.
Demi-fine jewellery offers a considered balance between quality, durability, and accessibility. It provides the elegance and refinement of fine jewellery without the same financial commitment, while remaining far more durable and ethically considered than fashion pieces.
Designed for everyday wear, our demi-fine pieces are tested against abrasion, humidity, and temperature changes, so you can enjoy them without worry. Crafted in small batches with RJC and ISO 9001-certified partners, each piece reflects thoughtful intention, ethical sourcing, and consistent quality.
Demi-fine jewellery also allows for versatility and personal expression. Pieces can be layered, stacked, or mixed to create a collection that evolves with your style. Many designs incorporate natural materials such as Mother of Pearl or Lapis Lazuli, adding a subtle, timeless touch. This makes demi-fine an ideal choice for those seeking jewellery that complements daily life, aligns with their values, and brings care and intention into every moment.
- Materials: Sterling silver base with 18k gold or vermeil plating of varying thickness, sometimes accented with natural materials.
- Craftsmanship: Carefully crafted for quality and durability, with BY TONIN produced in small batches with ethical partners
- Longevity: Durable for daily wear
- Investment: Mid-range, balancing quality and accessibility
- Brand examples: BY TONIN, Missoma, Monica Vinader, Mejuri
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When to choose demi-fine jewellery: For meaningful everyday wear, accessible luxury, and jewellery that balances sustainability, beauty, and longevity
Fashion Jewellery
Fashion jewellery, or costume jewellery, prioritises affordability and trend-driven design. Pieces are typically made from base metals like brass, copper, or stainless steel, plated with thin layers of gold or silver. Stones may be synthetic, glass, or crystal. While ideal for exploring trends, fashion jewellery is less durable and may tarnish or wear over time.
- Materials: Brass, copper, stainless steel, thin plating, synthetic or glass stones
- Craftsmanship: Mass-produced, trend-focused
- Longevity: Best for short-term or occasional wear; plating can wear or tarnish
- Investment: Most accessible price point
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When to choose fashion jewellery: For seasonal trends, short-term style statements, or affordable experimentation with jewellery styles.
In summary:
- Fine jewellery: Heirloom-worthy pieces crafted from solid precious metals and gemstones, built to last generations. Ideal for milestone occasions and long-term investment.
- Demi-fine jewellery: Thoughtfully designed, durable, and accessible pieces that balance elegance, everyday wearability, and ethical craftsmanship. Perfect for meaningful daily wear and versatile styling.
- Fashion jewellery: Trend-driven, affordable pieces made from base metals and synthetic stones. Best suited for seasonal styles, experimentation, or short-term wear.
By understanding these categories, you can choose jewellery that aligns with your style, values, and the way you want your pieces to be experienced.
