I'm sorry if this has been asked before, but what, exactly, is 'chain weld', and why do you consider it cheap or not worth the price tag? What's the difference?

Hi there! I think someone did ask this before, but I have no problem explaining something again, especially if I have new examples. Sometimes it’s easier to visualize when you’re looking at different versions of the same tiara design, so we’ll use Sarah Ferguson’s tiara as the example here.

Here’s the real one:

And here’s a “replica” that will set you back about $150 from a bridal shoppe:

Ugh, am I right? Doesn’t look remotely like it! This is what I call “chain weld”. It’s the method in which it was created. They took a pre-made chain of rhinestones and welded them into the pattern you see here. It limits the ability to form shapes, and it’s very clunky. Typically, chain weld pieces like this should run for $10-$15, which would be reasonable for what you’re getting, but bridal shoppes mark it up into the hundreds. 

Now, here’s a loss-wax, or pavé cast, replica:

Now that’s a bit more like it! The shapes have been sculpted and cast in metal before the stones are set into it. No abrupt square ends here, these flourishes end gracefully at leaf-like points as they should. Is it a perfect, exact replica? No way! But I’ll take this over that train wreck up above. Now, here’s the fun bit. This replica is going for $10-$25US on eBay. 

That’s lightyears away from the $150 pricetag of that terrible one above, no? 

Bridal shoppes are a scam. The bridal industry is a racket. And so are the tiaras they churn out. Love yourself, don’t buy over-priced rubbish.