The Story of 2 Companies: The Origin of Rhinestones
Today, you have many choices when choosing crystalline products, from top-of-the-line to economical faux gems. Two competing rivals helped shape the industry from its beginning. However, the origin of rhinestones includes financial and political pressures faced by Swarovski and Preciosa.
Key Historical Details
Essentially, the origin of rhinestones includes natural, manual, and automated stages:
1. Natural Resource
Quartz is one of the most common minerals on Earth. Depending on the geological factors and impurities present during its formation, it can form different gemstones. Found along the Rhine River, quartz mixed with lead during creation, giving these gemstones glittering properties.
2. Paste (Diamante)
Historians credit George Frederic Strass with developing the first rhinestone. Although leaded crystal was available earlier, Strass’s version had a higher lead content. He also used a metal powder on the backside for greater light reflection. These additions resulted in faux gems that were indistinguishable from a real gemstone by candlelight.
3. Automation
One particular Bohemian glassmaker, Daniel Swarovski, invented a machine to cut crystal glass faster than by hand. He moved his company to Austria to power his machines by hydropower.
The Origin of Rhinestones Begins with Glassmaking
Unfortunately, this brief history doesn’t explain the entire competitive and political forces that shaped the industry. Rhinestones have their roots in the glassmaking industry, and it’s here we begin.
Ancient people in Mesopotamia and Egypt made glass. In fact, many pharaohs’ tombs contained beautiful glass objects. These ancient people also used glass beads for trade and as symbols of wealth. The rise and fall of empires through history affected the glassmaking industry. As stability decreased, so did glassmaking. In the early 1200s, glassmakers sought refuge in Venice, Italy, to escape attacks by barbarians. Eventually, the government mandated that glassmakers relocate to the island of Murano. The government hoped to reduce fires caused by the extreme temperatures required to make glass. This relocation also helped to preserve the trade secrets and techniques, creating a monopoly. Despite tight control over the glassmaking process, secrets leaked out, and other areas began to compete with Murano. One particular European region, Bohemia, became the heart of this industry due to its abundance of resources. This begins the origin of rhinestones. The Rise of Preciosa and Swarovski
Bohemia is a land abundant in glassmaking materials, but artisans also enjoyed the support of nobility. Prague, the capital of Bohemia, also served as the seat of the Holy Roman Empire.
One particular emperor, Rudolf II, invited an Italian artisan, Casper Lehmann, to establish the first gem cutting workshop in Prague. Bohemian glass was harder and more brilliant than Murano glass, making it suitable for decorative techniques such as facet cutting. Ultimately, Lehmann revolutionized the industry by applying gem cutting techniques to glass Hand-cut Bohemian crystal guaranteed the highest quality decorative elements for the upper classes of society. These iconic works began gracing legendary locations, including the Palace of Versailles. One Bohemian glassmaking family, by the name of Swarovski, operated a small glassmaking factory in Georgenthal. The son, Daniel, worked in his father’s factory, learning the trade. In 1892, he received a patent for a cutting machine that cut crystal stones perfectly and faster than previously possible. He moved his family to Austria, where he opened a factory. Swarovski began producing cut crystal in direct competition with Bohemian glassmakers. Wars and Their Effect on the Crystal Making Industry
Swarovski increased its popularity by partnering with prominent designers like Chanel, Schiaparelli, and Dior. Additionally, the company responded to fashion trends, patenting a crystal embellished headband for the shorter flapper hairstyles of the time.
However, the 1900s saw the American depression and two World Wars challenge and change the industry. These events disrupted production, and Swarovski briefly closed his factory during these historical occurrences. Then, in 2020, Swarovski shocked the world by announcing it would stop selling to wholesalers. No longer would their crystal rhinestones be available to the public. Due to increased pressure from the Asian crystal-producing markets, the company decided to focus on luxury brands. Swarovski would sell only to approved brand partners. Both the Depression and WWI affected the Bohemian crystal making factories as well. However, WWII devastated the industry with Adolf Hitler’s invasion. Many owners of glass factories were of Jewish descent and fled the area. Others shifted from bead making to functional items. Then, a few years after the war, the communists seized control of the government. The government merged the remaining family-owned glass factories into nationalized state-owned enterprises. In 1989, the Velvet Revolution peacefully ended communist rule, and private industry began to reestablish itself. Glassworks in the Jablonec, Liberec, and Turnov regions merged to form Preciosa. Relying on their historical tradition, they continue to produce world-renowned crystal glass components. The Rhinestone Industry Today
Although European crystals are still the finest, many Asian companies manufacture cost-effective alternatives. Generally, Asian crystal doesn’t offer the intense sparkle of most European brands. However, they do have a very attractive price with a more subtle play of light.
Rhinestones Etc. offers the best of both worlds. We have an extensive collection of Preciosa crystal components and carry the Asian brand PriceLess. You’ll love our fast-processing times, competitive prices, and outstanding customer service. Browse our online store to find your perfect size and color.
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Rhinestones Vs. Diamonds Vs. Cubic Zirconia for Jewelry
Throughout history, both men and women have worn jewelry to indicate wealth and social status. Moreover, gemstone jewelry held a special place of importance, offering protection against evil spirits. Later, the wealthy and noble class wore it to distinguish themselves from the lower classes. Today, manufacturers create faux gems as an affordable option. When comparing rhinestones vs. diamonds vs. cubic zirconia, which one offers the best sparkle?
Real Vs. Faux Gems
Some historians credit Georges Frederic Strass, a Parisian jeweler, as the father of costume jewelry. In the 1730s, he created the first faux gem made from leaded glass. With a foil backing to reflect light, it would be impossible by candlelight to tell this limitation from diamonds.
The popularity of paste jewelry, as it came to be known, soared among the rich and noble born. Aristocrats could freely wear and travel with jewelry pieces without worrying about theft. Additionally, it was available in many colors, enabling wearers to have pieces created for specific outfits. Furthermore, the rise of the middle class also helped fuel the desire for faux gemstones. Due to their more affordable price, men and women of moderate means could look well-to-do. Some famous designers, like Chanel and Dior, began creating rhinestone jewelry. However, even with real gemstones, quality and grade vary. Furthermore, the number and arrangement of facets are another important part of creating sparkle. When comparing materials, remember that superiority varies between manufacturers and jewelers. Crystal Rhinestones
Centuries ago, gem hunters gathered glittering quartz found along the Rhine River. Once this natural resource became depleted, glassmakers began experimenting to replicate it. Typically, rhinestone is the most popular word for these manufactured faux gems. However, some companies may describe their products as strass or diamante.
Originally, all crystal rhinestones contained lead. Due to health concerns, many manufacturers switched to using barium, zinc, or potassium oxide instead. While chatons have a pointed back like diamonds, the most common rhinestone is the flatback. With a silver backing to reflect light, these rhinestones have a diamond like sparkle. Cubic Zirconia
During an unrelated experiment, German scientists created this compound as a byproduct. Thinking it didn’t have any applications, they basically ignored it. Decades later, Russian scientists rediscovered cubic zirconia.
However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that jewelers began using this beautiful lab-created gem. At that time, Swarovski began cutting and offering cubic zirconia in its product offerings. Its high dispersion index and cost-effective price make it a sought-after diamond substitute. Diamonds
Created deep within the earth, intense heat and pressure turn carbon into the hardest substance known to man, diamonds. Raw diamonds are irregularly shaped stones with a dull, glassy surface.
Many historians believe that the people of India first discovered diamonds. However, it wasn’t until the mid-1300s that jewelers began experimenting with cutting this mineral. As technology developed, so did jewelers' skill with faceting. Both real and faux gemstones incorporate highly developed engineering principles to angle facets for the play of light. Rhinestones Vs. Diamonds Vs. Cubic Zirconia - Important Attributes
Of course, when making jewelry, price is a critical consideration. However, creating a unique and exciting piece is equally important. One way to achieve this is through a play of light. Each material interacts with light differently to create sparkle.
1. Reflective Index
This is the amount of light reflected off the facets or foil backing to the viewer’s eye.
2. Refractive Index
When light enters a material, it slows down and bends. The refractive index (RI) of a gemstone is a measurement of the material’s ability to bend light.
3. Dispersion
White light consists of different colors traveling at the same speed. When it enters a material, the color wavelengths slow down at different speeds. This causes the white light to separate into colors.
Two other terms, fire and scintillation, relate to these properties. Fire is the light reflected through the gem/faux gem top after bouncing around inside. Scintillation is the multi-colored sparkles of light. Our chart at the top of the page compares the materials’ unique characteristics. Best Choice for Rhinestone Jewelry
Of course, the debate over rhinestones vs. diamonds will continue. Yet, the beauty and cost-effectiveness of crystal rhinestones help make them a popular choice for jewelry. For many years, Swarovski was the premier brand to use. However, in 2021, the company removed itself from the retail market due to changing economic conditions.
A quality Swarovski alternative is Preciosa crystal components. With a similar level of brilliance and sparkle, Preciosa boasts a 500-year history of glassmaking. Its crystal clear rhinestones are almost indistinguishable from diamonds. Furthermore, the company offers a variety of colors and sizes for all your needs. Moreover, Rhinestones Etc. has an extensive collection of both hotfix and flatback Preciosa Rhinestones. We offer fast processing times with same day shipping. Browse our online rhinestone store to find your crystal components. Discover Exciting New Rhinestone Colors from Preciosa
Brand-name Preciosa recently launched new crystal innovations, Mad for Sparkle SS 2025. Taking inspiration from the classic story, Alice in Wonderland, the manufacturer created new rhinestone colors. These hues invoke the magic of sparkle with the whimsy of the classic tale.
1. Acid Yellow
This luminous hue of yellow follows the trend of “dopamine dressing”. The term reflects the joy that arises from wearing certain colors. Invigorating and energetic, acid yellow makes a bold statement.
3. Rose Peach
This rhinestone color begins with a bold pink, but the manufacturer softens it with warm undertones of peach. Its cheerful sparkle is often associated with romance reminiscent of roses of the same shade.
These innovative colors give designers new hues for self-expression and statement-making shine. Offering an extensive palette of hues, these rhinestone colors are now part of Preciosa’s extensive portfolio of colors.
A Review of Other Preciosa Rhinestone Colors
Typically, rhinestone color offerings vary by manufacturer. Preciosa, the oldest manufacturer of crystalline products, offers a large selection divided into categories.
Crystal is the original rhinestone designed to mimic diamonds. Although a clear embellishment, its silver backing gives it a light silver presentation. Next are the standard colors. Rhinestone manufacturers add minerals to the crystal to create a product similar in color to real gemstones. Ruby, emerald, and topaz are some colors that fall into this category. Many manufacturers also produce AB/Shimmer AB colors. These rhinestones begin with crystal or a standard color, but the manufacturer applies a special iridescent coating. The final result? A rhinestone reflecting different colors of the rainbow while the original color shines through. Preciosa offers Shimmer AB colors, a lighter coating than AB allowing more of the original color to sparkle. Finally, you may also find color changing or unique color rhinestones that fall into the coated color category. These may have a surface or backside coating to give them a unique shade. Some examples produced by Preciosa include neon colors as well as metallic colors like Rose Gold. FAQs about Rhinestones
Are you shopping for bling supplies and have some questions about rhinestone colors? Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions.
Do Manufacturers Have Different Price Structures for The Color Categories?
Many rhinestone manufacturers charge more for AB or coated colors and some charge the same as standard colors. Usually, this is due to the difference in manufacturing processes. For many quality brands, unique colored rhinestones cost more to create than standard colors.
Are All Colors Available in Hot Fix Rhinestones?
Hot fix rhinestones are crystals with glue on the backside for heat application. The availability of color selection also depends on the manufacturer. Preciosa offers a large selection of colors of heat activated rhinestones. We’ll be adding these to our store soon!
Can I Mix Standard and AB Colors on My Bling Project?
Absolutely! Using both the standard and AB rhinestone can add movement and depth not achieved by a single color. Plus, AB color rhinestones appear to sparkle more because the coating increases the visibility of the facets.
Rhinestones Etc. has the new exciting colors from Preciosa along with many other fun colors. We offer fast processing times, great customer service, and competitive prices. Browse our online store and find the perfect hue for you. Discover Popular Rhinestone Shapes for Innovative Designs
Usually, most people use round rhinestones for their bling projects. Available in many sizes and colors, this shape offers the greatest versatility. Yet, many rhinestone manufacturers make other rhinestone shapes. With different facet arrangements, other cuts can enhance your design.
Common Rhinestone Shapes
Today, like diamonds, the round shape is the most popular rhinestone shape. However, other interesting cuts are also available. Whether you’re creating jewelry, bedazzling clothing, or some other project, different shapes can add another dimension to your creation. From classic to novel cuts, unique shapes have varying faceting patterns that react to light differently.
1. Oval
This shape resembles the round rhinestone but offers the illusion of a larger crystal. Its rounded curves with elongated dimensions can create a unique look to your design.
2. Pear
Another shape that adds the illusion of length is the pear. With a sharp top point and rounded lower half, this shape mimics a teardrop.
3. Square
With parallel faceting, this elegant shape allows light to disperse in unique ways. Some manufacturers will produce this shape with sharp lines and angles. Others round the curves to create the cushion cut so named because it looks like a pillow.
4. Navette
Sometimes called a marquise, the navette cut is oval shaped with both ends pointed. This shape offers maximum sparkle and reflection of light.
5. Baguette
A slender rectangular shape, the baguette offers a modern and contemporary look. Its shape adds visual interest to any design, especially when paired with a round shape.
6. Rhombus
The rhombus is a diamond-like shape with sharp angles and lines. With a multi-faceted surface, it flashes beautiful brilliance.
7. Triangle
Another angular rhinestone is the triangle. This unique shape is especially striking when paired with square or baguette rhinestones.
8. Rivoli
Although a round rhinestone, a Rivoli has vertical facets from the edge to the center with a pointed top. Originally, manufacturers created a point on both sides. However, today you’ll also find the flat backed foiled Rivoli.
Designing With Geometric Rhinestone Shapes
To understand how manufacturers developed the various shapes, you need to know the history of glassmaking and gem cutting. Beginning in the late Renaissance Period, artisan glassmakers began to cut crystal to replicate more expensive gemstones. These artisans attempted to copy the facet arrangements and shapes of gemstones to optimize light reflection and refraction.
During the Art Deco (1919 to 1939) period, gem cutters introduced the baguette, triangle, and square gemstone shapes. These new cuts offered contrasting forms of geometric patterns in jewelry making. Of course, the glassmakers copied these cuts in rhinestone manufacturing to offer different movements of light. Moreover, as gem cutters experimented and introduced new techniques, glassmakers imitated them. Today, rhinestone manufacturers continue to create new and innovative shapes. You’ll find acrylic, glass, or crystal rhinestones in an assortment of geometrical shapes. FAQs About Rhinestone Shapes
Using different shapes can add new dimensions to your bling project. Geometric shapes are visually appealing and add a layer of interest to dance costumes, skating wear, shoes, or jewelry. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions.
What Rhinestone Colors Are Available in the Various Shapes?
Typically, you can find virtually any round rhinestone color. However, the availability of colors in shapes depends upon the manufacturer and the shape.
Are Different Quantities Available?
Generally, the quantities offered depend on the retailer. Often, stores will buy in bulk and sell rhinestones in smaller amounts.
Where Can I Buy Rhinestones?
Rhinestones Etc. has been selling quality embellishments since 2011. We have fast processing times so you get your stones quickly. Browse our online store and find the perfect shape and color for your project.
 Is The Preciosa Rhinestone Brand a Good Investment?Sparkling objects always capture our attention. For whatever reason, the reflection of light is irresistible. Rhinestones are pieces of glass that catch and reflect light. Skaters, dancers, and movie stars love to attract your attention by embellishing with rhinestones. Admittedly, it’s hard to look away from a rhinestone-encrusted garment. But, if you’ve ever shopped for rhinestones, you may find it confusing with many different manufacturers. Some rhinestones have more brilliance than others due to the composition or arrangement of facets. Others have different colors or shapes. And while some manufacturers are new to the market, the Preciosa rhinestone brand has been around for almost 500 years. In the Czech Republic, the art and tradition of glassmaking passed on from generation to generation. Bohemian glass became sought after for its high brilliance, brightness, and sparkle. No other rhinestone manufacturer has been around for as long. Starting with Preciosa’s humble beginnings in the Crystal Valley to a leading brand, the company continually strives for crystal perfection. A Brief History of Bohemian Crystal GlassRhinestones, leaded glass with a reflective backing, have dazzled for centuries. Its history is steeped deep within the Crystal Valley in the Czech Republic. Almost 500 years ago, craftsmen fired up the first glassmaking kiln. And over the years, Bohemian glassmakers have amazed the world with their innovative products. In 1715, Bohemian craftsmen introduced the chaton, the world’s first cut stone. Shortly thereafter, craftsmen began coating the back with a metal foil to reflect the incoming light. The resulting product closely resembled diamonds in appearance. But because craftsmen needed to cut each stone by hand, these early rhinestones were still quite expensive. It took almost 200 years for the invention of a machine that cut crystal faster and more precise. This particular craftsman, Daniel Swarovski, moved to Austria to open his own company. Meanwhile, the craftsmen of Bohemia continued to work independently until 1948. At this time, 25 companies and factories merged into one national company under the name of Preciosa.  The Maxima RhinestoneToday, Preciosa craftsmen continue the tradition of innovation. The company manufactures 35,000 premium products, all 100% made in the Czech Republic. Rising to meet the concerns of consumers for safer crystal, Preciosa unveiled its lead-free rhinestone in 2013. Named the Maxima, it features 15 pristinely cut facets. Preciosa’s lead-free formula has a refraction index comparable to leaded glass. The refraction index is a measurement tool to assess the rhinestone’s brilliance. In a complicated mathematical equation, scientists compute the index on how much light bends when it enters into the crystal. Basically, an object with a higher refractive index reflects more light back to your eyes. Or in other words, the object has more sparkle. Having a similar refractive index, the Maxima rhinestone is indistinguishable from its leaded counterpart. Preciosa starts with the purest raw materials. Then, using advanced technologies, craftsmen cut and polish components to guarantee color consistency, sparkle, and brilliance. Combined with its revolutionary Dura-Foiling layer, Maxima possesses a brilliant dispersion of light. Furthermore, there are rhinestone colors in every shade of the rainbow to choose. Moreover, effects and special coatings broaden the color selection. Effects are specialized coatings applied to the crystal to give rhinestones unique properties. The most popular of these is the AB which is an iridescent, rainbow-like coating. With crystal sizes ranging from the tiny 2ss to the large 40ss, design possibilities are endless.  The Preciosa Rhinestones Brand Represents Tradition and ExcellenceToday, there are many different manufacturers of crystal rhinestones. Each company has its own unique formula for creating sparkle. When looking for quality with hundreds of years of heritage, buy the Preciosa rhinestones brand. Their continued commitment to provide consumers with beautiful, eco-friendly products makes them an industry leader. When you want to capture attention in a bold and beautiful way, choose Preciosa.
I was in love with Swarovski Rhinestones from the beginning. The multitude of colors, the many facets that made them sparkle, what was there not to love? When my daughter began figure skating, I bought them to embellish her skating dresses and everyone I knew in the skating world used Swarovski Rhinestones. For the difference in price, why not go with the top of the line?
Then I met the PriceLess line of rhinestones. This brand is about 30% cheaper than the Swarovski Rhinestones. They are genuine crystal – AAAA rated the highest crystal rating. There are no color variations, scratches, bubbles or cloudiness in these crystal rhinestones. There are less facets and the cuts are different, but these rhinestones create a dazzling display under the lights.
Close up, you can see the difference between the rhinestone brands but from a distance, both produce a dazzling display of brilliance. I still am in love with Swarovski Rhinestones but for some projects, I will choose PriceLess Rhinestones.  |
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Copyright 2014 - 2025 Rhinestones Etc. All rights reserved.