Rhinestones, synonymous with elegance and glamour, are faux gems crafted from glass, acrylic, or crystal.
They mimic the look of diamonds and other precious gems but are significantly more affordable, making them a popular choice in fashion, entertainment & sport industry jewelry, and art.
Extra Sparkle Info:
Rhinestones originated from the Rhine River, where pebbles with a natural sparkle were first found. Today, they are manufactured through a meticulous process involving cutting and polishing glass or crystal.
💎 Types and Quality 💎
Rhinestones come in various types, each with distinct characteristics.
Types:
Flatback
These rhinestones are characterized by their flat, smooth reverse side, which makes them highly versatile.
Their flat back allows for easy application on a wide variety of surfaces, making them a go-to option for many different projects.
Chatons
Distinctive for their pointed backs, which lend them a unique shape and enhance their ability to brilliantly reflect light.
Unlike flatbacks, Chatons are typically not glued. Instead are set into metal clasps or embedded in padded materials, such as in settings for rings, necklaces, or brooches.
Sew On
Generally larger in size, sew on rhinestones feature holes that enable them to be sewn onto fabric. This feature makes them ideal for adding embellishments to clothing, costumes, and textile-based accessories.
Sew-On rhinestones provide a secure attachment that can withstand frequent movement and handling, crucial for items that are regularly worn or used in sport or physical activities.
Their larger size often means they are used as statement pieces, providing a focal point in the design. Their size advantage not only adds richness and depth when used various different sizes of flatback rhinestones but also allows for a more dynamic and textured appearance.
Quality Grades
Crystal : considered the highest quality
Glass : varying levels of quality depending on manufacturing and the quality of the raw materials.
Acrylic / Resin : although considered the budget option or most affordable option, some can still offer a substantial & respectful sparkle and shine.
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💎 The Art of Rhinestoning 💎 → Techniques & Applications
Rhinestoning refers to the art of attaching rhinestones to various surfaces. Techniques vary from glueing to heat-setting, with the choice depending on both the material and the desired effect.
Rhinestones can elevate a simple dress to a glamour showstopper or transform an iPhone case making it seem like its encrusted with diamonds!
From adorning them on your face on your way to the next competition to completely transforming household decor to become centerpieces of art in your office or dining room.
In fact, it has reached such heights of creativity that entire cars have been covered in them. A notable example is a Lamborghini, fully encrusted with rhinestones - sight to behold!
CLICK HERE to see it.
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💎 Application Methods 💎 → Hotfix & Non-Hotfix
Rhinestones are applied using two main methods: Hotfix and Non-Hotfix.
Hotfix Rhinestones:
These rhinestones come with a heat-activated adhesive / glue on their back that melts and bonds to the surface when heated. They are typically applied using a hotfix applicator , heat press or an iron. Hotfix rhinestones are popular for fabrics as they provide a secure and durable bond.
Non-Hotfix Rhinestones:
For these, you'll need separate glue. They're more flexible in terms of use, sticking well to various surfaces like metal, plastic, and leather. The durability of the bond depends largely on the type of glue used.
💎 Colors 💎 → Naming, Origins, and Industry Standards
Rhinestone colors are often named after precious stones (e.g., "emerald green" or "sapphire blue") and come in a vast range of colors. The industry has standardized color names to maintain consistency across brands.
These colors have historical roots in glass and crystal production, where experimenting with metal oxides resulted in a range of hues.
💎 Quality Grades 💎
The quality of rhinestones is generally graded based on their cut, clarity, color, type of material used and the precision of the facets.
The highest grade, often used by premium brands is characterized by superior brilliance & materials used and precision cutting. Lower grades may have less sparkle and more irregularities in cut and color.
💎 Sizing 💎 → Standards and Terminology
Rhinestone sizes are typically measured in millimeters or using a "ss" (stone size) number, a standard originated from the size of natural pearls. For example, ss6 might correspond to 1.9 - 2.1mm. This sizing system helps in ensuring uniformity and accuracy in designs.
SS Size | Diameter (mm) |
SS6 | 1.9 - 2.1 |
SS10 | 2.7 - 2.9 |
SS16 | 3.8 - 4.0 |
SS20 | 4.6 - 4.8 |
SS30 | 6.6 - 6.8 |
SS40 | 8.6 - 8.8 |
The other embellishments such as sew on stones, mirrors, pearls etc each have their own sizing.
💎 Quantity 💎 → Standard Measurements
Rhinestones are typically sold in bulk, with quantities often expressed in gross.
One gross equals 144 stones. This measurement standard dates back to early trade practices and is still used for ease and consistency in the industry.
The term 'gross' derives from the French word 'grosse douzaine,' meaning 'large dozen,' which signifies twelve dozen or 144 pieces. This was particularly useful for merchants who dealt in bulk goods, allowing them to easily calculate large quantities.
The use of 'gross' as a measurement unit dates back to a time when trade and commerce required easy-to-understand and universally accepted units for counting various items, including gemstones and pearls.
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