There’s some talk about costume jewelry being in this season – which, on the one hand, is joyous news, and on the other, should be the case all the time, as far as I’m concerned.

Here’s a lovely example: The ring on the left, a beautiful 1950s vintage piece with citrine, diamonds, and 14kt gold, retails for $1,196. On the right, a cocktail ring with a similar vintage feel and just as much impact, for $128. It’s made of glass and plated brass, and it’s from a fall jewelry collection by Juicy Couture (of sweatpants-with-words-on-the-rear fame – I’m impressed too).

I’d wear either of these rings in a heartbeat – but I’d be much more likely to buy myself the latter. Do you agree, or do you like your jewelry real enough to consider an heirloom?

And here’s where it gets confusing: The necklace on the left costs $4,315, the one on the right, $68, but they’re both costume. The more expensive version does incorporate pearls, but the main draws, it seems to me, are all-out hugeness and a designer name.

So I’m glad costume jewelry is alive and well, but does anyone buy a glass-and-metal necklace for over $4,000?