How do AB crystals differ from crystal rhinestones?

What Is the Difference Between AB Crystals and Clear Rhinestones?

​Today, you have many choices when it’s time to buy rhinestones. From sizes to color options, manufacturers to material, the possibilities can seem endless.  For example, some rhinestone manufacturers create over 100 different colors. If you’re having trouble deciding, AB crystals offer color versatility. 

The Origins of Manufactured Rhinestones
Historically, manufactured crystals emerged from the glassmaking industry to replicate more expensive gemstones. Although crystal is a form of glass, not all glass is crystal.

As craftsmen experimented, they discovered that adding lead during production altered the properties of glass. The new product was denser, with a higher refractive index. This meant that leaded glass or crystal was more brilliant than plain glass.

Although legends surround much of the early history of rhinestone making, most likely the Fišer brothers were instrumental. After studying glassmaking in Venice, they returned to Bohemia, settling in the Turnov region. Over time, the techniques of creating beautiful cut crystal spread throughout the area.  By the 1800s, the Bohemian city of Jablonec nad Nisou had become the world center for the jewelry industry.

AB Crystals: A Collaboration Between Dior and Swarovski
As years passed, the demand for rhinestones grew.  However, the industry remained a cottage industry with each crystal painstakingly cut by hand. One Bohemian glassmaker, Daniel Swarovski, revolutionized crystal production with a new machine. Compared to hand cutting, his factory cut crystal faster and with consistency, propelling his company to the industry forefront.

In the 1950s, Swarovski’s ever-innovating company collaborated with a popular designer, Christian Dior. Dior loved replicating elements of nature into his styles. Like other designers of the time, he often created jewelry pieces to accompany his clothing lines. The AB rhinestone, or Aurora Borealis, tried to replicate the breathtaking display of color in the Northern sky.

The original AB rhinestones were clear crystals with the iridescent coating. This coating gave the crystal an ever-changing palette of colors similar to the natural phenomena. In time, rhinestone manufacturers began to apply this coating to other crystal colors besides crystal AB. Today, you’ll almost always find an AB crystal to accompany the standard color. 

Choosing An AB Rhinestone Color
Generally, the AB coating varies among rhinestone manufacturers due to the chemical composition and the amount applied to the crystal. Some companies use a heavier layer while others add a lighter covering. Typically, a lighter coating allows more of the original color to shine through.

Additionally, lighter AB colors have more of a rainbow effect, reflecting a wider range of colors. Darker colors reflect a metallic, greenish-blue color with less assortment of hues.

Ultimately, the coating on AB gems intensifies the facet visibility giving them greater glittery sparkle than standard colors.  Moreover, AB rhinestones reflect the colors that surround it. Combining AB rhinestones with standard colors on your bling project gives it dimension and texture.

Today, you’ll find a wide variety of shapes and types of AB crystals:
Rhinestones:

• Chatons
• Round
• Rivioli
• Shaped

Beads:

• Round
• Rondelle/Bicone
• Bellatrix
• Shaped
• Seed

Drop pendants:

• Baroque
• Briolette
• Column
• Round Classic Cut
• Elliptic
• Emerald
• Shaped

FAQS About AB Crystals
Are you looking to buy some AB rhinestones online? Below we answer a few commonly asked questions to help you find the right crystals for your project.

Are All Manufacturers AB Colors the Same?
No. Manufacturers use different chemical compositions and coloring processes to create their crystal line. Hence, colors of the same name can be very different between brands.

How Do You Apply Crystal AB Rhinestones?
The method of application depends on the rhinestones type. For example, hotfix crystal AB rhinestones require a heat press or applicator tool to attach the embellishments. Alternatively, you’ll need rhinestone glue or settings to adhere flatback rhinestones to fabric. 

Where Can I Buy Bulk Rhinestones?
Since 2011, Rhinestones Etc. has been selling quality crystal rhinestones online. Our line of Preciosa AB crystals is available in single or bulk packaging. We also carry the PriceLess brand in bulk for a very cost-effective price.

Browse our collection of AB colors to find the crystals for your next bling project!