Jewelry

The Finishing Touch to a Period Costume

A costume is rarely judged by its doublet or its gown. It is judged by the details. A circlet at the brow, a brooch pinning a cloak at the shoulder, a heavy ring on a gloved hand: these are the pieces that tell a crowd you took the trouble. In the medieval and Renaissance courts, jewelry was never decoration alone. It declared rank, faith and allegiance, and it fastened cloaks and sleeves besides. Our collection carries that purpose forward in costume jewelry made for the reenactor, the faire regular and the collector alike.

Jewelry for Every Era and Every Outfit

Start at the neck. Our necklaces, chokers and pendants are the largest part of the collection, and many are made of pewter, the soft silver gray metal that has served European craftsmen since the Middle Ages. Thor's hammers and raven pendants sit naturally beside our Viking clothing and armor, while Celtic knots and Crusader crosses pair with Scottish and Celtic clothing and Crusader tunics and robes. Add rings, bracelets and earrings and ear wraps to build the look outward.

For court dress, the crowns and tiaras are the finishing word, from the lightweight Avalon to the heavily jeweled Isolde, and they sit well with a gown from our women's Renaissance clothing or a tunic from our men's medieval clothing. Brooches and buckles do the quiet work of holding a cloak closed. If your tastes run to gears and brass, the Steampunk jewelry collection is a short step away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is costume jewelry?

Costume jewelry is jewelry made to complete an outfit rather than to hold investment value. At Museum Replicas, that means pieces inspired by historical designs, made for reenactment, faires, theater and everyday wear.

What is pewter jewelry?

Pewter is a soft metal alloy, mostly tin, that has been used for tableware, badges and jewelry in Europe since the Middle Ages. It has a muted silver gray finish and holds fine detail well, which is why it suits Viking, Celtic and Crusader designs so naturally.

Is your pewter jewelry lead free?

Yes. Some antique pewter contained lead, but we do not sell it. Every pewter piece in our collection is newly made from lead free pewter, not antique or salvaged metal.

What jewelry should I wear to a Renaissance faire?

Choose a necklace or pendant first, then add rings and a brooch or circlet. Heavier, simpler pieces suit medieval looks, while Renaissance outfits carry more ornament. Men can wear rings, a pendant or a cloak brooch just as period gentlemen did.

Did men wear jewelry in the medieval and Renaissance periods?

Yes. Rings, pendants, brooches and chains were common among men of rank, often as marks of office or allegiance. Viking men wore Thor's hammer pendants, and Crusaders wore the cross.

Is this jewelry suitable for everyday wear?

Many pieces are, and the collection is built for both costume and daily use. Check each product page for materials and care before wearing a piece every day.