Vivienne Westwood is one of the most iconic names in British fashion, known for bold designs, rebellious aesthetics, and instantly recognizable jewelry pieces. But with rising prices and increasing demand, many new shoppers are asking the same critical question: Is Vivienne Westwood worth the price?

This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about Vivienne Westwood quality, materials used, durability, tarnishing issues, and whether the brand’s products justify their cost. It also includes comparisons, featured snippets, and answers to common buyer questions.

Summary

Vivienne Westwood is worth the price for shoppers who value unique design, brand heritage, and statement jewelry. The brand often uses brass with gold or silver plating, meaning pieces may tarnish over time. While not fine jewelry, Vivienne Westwood offers high-quality costume jewelry with strong craftsmanship and distinctive aesthetics. This guide breaks down materials, durability, and what to expect before buying.

Why Shoppers Search for Vivienne Westwood Quality

The rise in popularity of Vivienne Westwood jewelry, especially among younger buyers, has created a surge in questions like:

• Why is Vivienne Westwood so expensive?
• Is Vivienne Westwood real gold?
• Is Vivienne Westwood costume jewelry?
• Do Vivienne Westwood necklaces tarnish?

This blog answers all these questions in detail.

What Makes Vivienne Westwood Expensive?

1. Brand Heritage

Vivienne Westwood is one of the most influential fashion designers in history, shaping punk culture and redefining avant-garde fashion since the 1970s.

2. Unique Artistic Designs

Each piece carries distinctive British-inspired and punk-influenced styling that sets it apart from mainstream luxury brands.

3. High Demand Among Younger Shoppers

Vivienne Westwood jewelry consistently trends on social media, driving higher demand.

4. Limited Production & Premium Brand Positioning

As a designer label, the brand prices items higher to maintain exclusivity and perceived value.

Vivienne Westwood Quality Breakdown

Here is a detailed explanation of what you can expect from Vivienne Westwood’s craftsmanship and materials.

Jewelry Quality

Vivienne Westwood jewelry is classified as high-end costume jewelry. This means it is stylish, well-crafted, but not made of solid gold or silver.

Materials Commonly Used

• Brass (main base metal)
• Gold plating
• Rhodium plating
• Sterling silver (limited pieces)
• Cubic zirconia
• Glass pearls

Is Vivienne Westwood costume jewelry?
Yes. Most Vivienne Westwood jewelry is considered high-end costume jewelry, made from brass with gold or silver plating rather than solid gold or silver.

Is Vivienne Westwood Real Gold?

Most Vivienne Westwood jewelry is not made of real gold. Instead, it features gold plating over brass. Some premium collections may use sterling silver or higher-quality metals, but solid gold pieces are extremely rare.

Why Is Vivienne Westwood Jewelry Brass?

Brass is used because:

• It is durable
• Lightweight for daily wear
• More affordable for consumers
• Allows intricate design molding

Brass provides the structure, while the gold or silver plating gives the luxurious look.

Vivienne Westwood Necklace Material Explained

Most necklaces are made of brass plated with either gold, rhodium, or silver-tone finishes. Stones and pearls are usually synthetic or glass.

Common Materials List

• Brass base
• 18k gold plating
• Rhodium plating
• Silver-tone plating
• Glass stones
• Glass pearls

Do Vivienne Westwood Necklaces Tarnish?

Yes, they can. Tarnishing depends on:

• How often you wear it
• Exposure to water, sweat, perfume
• Storage conditions

Tips to Prevent Tarnishing

• Keep jewelry dry
• Store in airtight pouch
• Avoid perfume or lotion contact
• Clean gently with a soft cloth

Vivienne Westwood Silver: What to Know

Some collections use sterling silver, often marked with “925”. These pieces are more durable, tarnish-resistant, and longer lasting than brass-plated ones.

If you want the highest quality, choose items listed as “sterling silver”, “solid silver”, or “925 silver”.

Comparison Table: Vivienne Westwood Jewelry Quality

Is Vivienne Westwood Worth the Price?

It depends on what you are looking for. Here is a clear breakdown.

Worth It If You Value:

• Unique, artistic jewelry designs
• Designer brand prestige
• Trendy fashion statement pieces
• Collectible fashion accessories

Not Worth It If You Expect:

• Solid gold or silver
• Luxury fine jewelry craftsmanship
• Zero tarnishing

Vivienne Westwood offers excellent design quality, but not luxury fine materials.

Why Is Vivienne Westwood So Popular Among Shoppers?

• Aesthetic appeal: The orb logo is iconic
• Celebrity influence
• Social media trends
• Affordable entry point into designer fashion

How Long Does Vivienne Westwood Jewelry Last?

With proper care, pieces can last many years. Brass-plated jewelry requires more maintenance than sterling silver.

Longevity Tips

• Avoid moisture
• Wipe regularly
• Keep stored in original box

Where to Buy Vivienne Westwood Necklace

For authenticity, buy from:

Official Stores

• Vivienne Westwood official website
• Official boutiques

Authorized Retailers

• Selfridges
• Farfetch
• SSENSE
• Harrods
• Net-a-Porter

Avoid unknown online sellers to prevent counterfeit purchases.

Vivienne Westwood Quality vs Similar Brands

Final Verdict: Is Vivienne Westwood Worth the Price?

If you love unique statement jewelry and don’t mind gold-plated materials, Vivienne Westwood is a great choice. The design value is strong, and the brand heritage adds meaningful appeal.

However, if you want fine jewelry, solid gold, or long-lasting metals, you may prefer sterling silver pieces or other high-end brands.

Vivienne Westwood quality is ideal for fashion-forward shoppers who want bold designs, but it may not suit those expecting fine jewelry standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is Vivienne Westwood so expensive?

Because of the brand’s prestige, design uniqueness, and high demand.

2. Is Vivienne Westwood real gold?

Most jewelry is gold-plated, not solid gold.

3. Is Vivienne Westwood silver real?

Some pieces use genuine 925 sterling silver.

4. Do Vivienne Westwood necklaces tarnish?

Yes, especially brass-plated ones.

5. Where to buy Vivienne Westwood necklace?

Buy from the official website or authorized retailers like Selfridges and Farfetch.

Conclusion

Vivienne Westwood jewelry offers strong design value and iconic aesthetics. While not made of fine luxury materials, the craftsmanship and style make it a worthwhile purchase for many shoppers. Understanding the Vivienne Westwood quality details helps ensure you choose the right pieces for your needs and expectations.