7117 - Imitation jewelry:

Category 7117 encompasses a broad range of imitation jewelry and articles of ornamentation that are not made from precious metals or natural/cultured pearls, precious stones, or semi-precious stones. This classification includes items designed to resemble fine jewelry but are manufactured from base metals, plastics, glass, textiles, or other non-precious materials. Examples include costume necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, brooches, and hair ornaments that are imitative in appearance and style but lack the intrinsic value of precious materials.

Distinguishing this category from its sibling entries within the broader HTS structure is crucial. While Chapter 71 broadly covers precious materials and their articles, 7117 specifically delineates imitation pieces. Its siblings, found at higher levels of the HTS, would typically cover entirely different product sectors such as live animals (Chapter 01), agricultural products, or manufactured goods made from different material bases. Therefore, 7117 is distinct by its focus on ornamental articles that simulate precious jewelry without using precious components.

Within HTS 7117, subcategories are provided to refine classification based on the primary material of construction. The headings differentiate between imitation jewelry made of base metal (whether or not plated with precious metal) and "other" imitation jewelry, which covers a wide array of items crafted from materials not specified in the base metal category. This subdivision allows for more precise tariff application, recognizing that the manufacturing and material composition significantly influence the value and import duties associated with these imitation adornments.