What kind of fake jewelry was worn in Tsarist Russia? (PHOTOS)
At the turn of the 19th century, the tsarist court and noblemen in Russia began to embrace sparkling rhinestones and faceted steel – what’s known as ‘bijou’ in France. Fake jewelry was so fashionable that sometimes even cost more than real precious stones and metals.
Comb. Tula, first half of the 19th century
Belt buckle. Tula, late 18th century
‘The lover's eye’ clasp. With the inscription: “Il ne regarde que sur toi seule” (“He looks only at you”). Russia, 1820s
The badge of the St. Anna Order of the II degree ‘with diamonds’, St. Petersburg, first third of the 19th century
The badge of the Knight of the East and Jerusalem of the Rosicrucian Order. Early 19th century
Earrings, second half of the 18th century
Pocket watch. London, 1740s
These and other masterpieces can be seen at the ‘The Magic of Glitter. Rhinestones and faceted steel of the 18th – early 19th century from the collection of the Historical Museum’ exhibition, which is on display at the Historical Museum in Moscow until February 2, 2026.
