What the heck even are rhinestones? How many types of rhinestones exist in the world?
We’re sure you have heard about rhinestones or the word at least once. However, you might not know much else about these stones. Well, that’s where we come in!
We’re taking a little break from pearls, and in this blog, we’re going to explore rhinestones and the different types used to make jewelry.
What are Rhinestones?
Rhinestones were once found on the shores of the Rhine River in Austria. That source, sadly, has been depleted.
The rhinestones we know today are a human invention that acts as a gemstone simulant. They can be made of glass, acrylic, crystal, or quartz.
Rhinestones vary in value and price points; crystal-made rhinestones are highly valued due to the lead added to them.
It’s believed the more lead content there is in the rhinestones, the more brilliant it is in light reflection and refraction!
Rhinestones Used for Jewelry-Making
Just because they are known as imitations of gemstones doesn’t mean you should underestimate them!
Rhinestones, be it clothes, shoes, or accessories, rule the fashion world. That’s because these stones have a flat back that allows them to adhere to any surface! That’s super cool.
This brings us to a primary question: what are the different types of rhinestones used to make jewelry?
Three main types of rhinestones are used explicitly in jewelry making: crystals, glass, and acrylic.
Let’s get started!
Crystal Rhinestones
As we briefly discussed in the sections above, rhinestones made out of crystals are the priciest compared to other materials.
That’s because the crystal is a mix of glass and lead, making for a bright and shiny combination.
However, its best selling point is the way crystal rhinestones refract light, making them similar to prisms. We can understand why they’re so highly valued!
There are lots of crystal rhinestone jewelry pieces available in the market. They look luxurious but come at a more affordable price than their diamond counterparts.
Pro tip: You don’t have to spend big bucks to look good. You have to be smart about your fashion choices!
Glass Rhinestones
A little less valuable than crystal ones, glass rhinestones are the next best thing.
Glass rhinestones are available in many different colors as it’s easy to dye glass. They are precision-cut by machines to achieve a uniform shape. So, if you appreciate the clean look of any jewelry piece, try glass rhinestones.
A necklace made from, let’s say, red glass rhinestones will make for a bold statement piece if you’re daring enough!
Acrylic Rhinestones
If you’re looking for some pretty-looking gemstones but are unwilling to spend a hefty amount of money on investing in the real deal, this one’s for you!
Acrylic rhinestones are the most inexpensive of all three types. They’re also lead-free, making them perfect for kids to use in their arts and crafts projects.
These rhinestones have some shininess, but they might be considered lackluster compared to crystal and glass.
Ways to Make Rhinestone Jewelry
There are generally two ways to make jewelry or other accessories with flat back rhinestones: standard and hotfix.
For standard, all you need is liquid glue that helps rhinestones adhere to the piece.
For hot fix rhinestones, you have to melt the glue with heat. This is a lengthy process in comparison, but rhinestones stick better this way!
Parting Thoughts
Rhinestones are an imitation of expensive gemstones like diamonds. They’re low-maintenance, affordable, and easy to replace, should you accidentally misplace them!
Wondering where to purchase them? Try DezLin!
We are a family and veteran-owned business located in Lodi, California, specializing in product reveals that are unlike any other! Check out our rhinestone jewelry collection now and shop your favorites.