Types of Rhinestones and Grading Generally, rhinestones receive a grading much like precious gemstones. This set of grades describes the quality of the rhinestone. Similar to valuable stones, rhinestones receive an evaluation based on color, clarity, and cut. Sometimes, lower grade rhinestones will have inclusions or imperfections. A batch of rhinestones may contain individual pieces with bubbles or fractures. Often, lower grade rhinestones appear cloudy. While some precious gemstones gain value with inclusions, flaws in rhinestones are a sign of a cheaply made component. Moreover, cheaper made rhinestones can yellow or turn black with age. Generally, consumers think of only name brand rhinestones associated with a high-quality grading. However, some inexpensive rhinestones make the grade delivering top-quality sparkle. Is Buying the Most Expensive Rhinestone Always Sensible? Typically, manufacturers create rhinestones from acrylic, glass, or crystal. Usually, you can easily differentiate between some of the types of rhinestones just by looking at them. For example, acrylic rhinestones create minimal sparkle due to its diffuse reflective properties. The facets scatter the light at many angles. Glass has spectacular reflective properties with the light reflecting back all at the same angle for greater sparkle. However, glass lacks the prismatic quality of crystal. This is the ability to take light and bend it creating more brilliance. Sometimes, you may want to use lower quality rhinestones for children’s craft projects. Other times, like jewelry making, only top-quality will do. Often, the difference between name brand and lesser-known grade rhinestones is the number of facets. Facets are small, flat surfaces manufacturers cut into crystal to create scintillation. Generally, the number of facets and their arrangement is responsible for the crystal’s optical performance of generating sparkle and shine. Meet the PriceLess Rhinestone
Certainly, for some shoppers, only a name brand will do. Purchasing a name brand gives a guarantee of a quality product. Yet, many consumers are simply looking for a cost-effective way to add excitement with bling. Furthermore, among crystal rhinestone manufacturers, you can find some quality bling for a lot less than a name brand. One of these is the PriceLess Rhinestone. Featuring 12 precise machine cut facets of the highest crystal, it sparkles beautifully under the lights. Moreover, it’s available in dozens of sparkling colors and several rhinestone sizes. Where Do I Buy Rhinestones? Rhinestones Etc. has been selling quality embellishments at discount prices for over a decade. With outstanding customer service and fast shipping, we want to be your source for sparkle. Check out our selection of colors and let us help you dazzle.
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For decades, Swarovski has been an icon among rhinestone manufacturers. Many consumers choose this name brand over all other rhinestone types. However, declining profits amid a global pandemic has caused Swarovski to re-evaluate its manufacturing. Currently, the company is undergoing restructuring including a 20% reduction in its workforce. In addition to reducing its workforce, Swarovski is eliminating portions of its business. By November 2021, the company will no longer produce Swarovski crystal components, such as crystal rhinestones, for resale. This means individuals will no longer be able to purchase Swarovski rhinestones from retailers. However, the company plans to continue to produce components for high end luxury brands. If you’re a diehard Swarovski fan, what does this mean to you? Production of some crystal components will continue until November 2021. However, there will be stock shortages caused by their reduced workforce and factory production. Additionally, for a time there will still be some older stock available through Swarovski Authorized Resellers. Yet, the bottom line is, soon you won’t be able to purchase Swarovski Rhinestones. However, comparable rhinestones will still be available. Currently, Preciosa has no plans for reducing its workforce and will continue its ongoing production. Plus, there are many quality lower priced crystal rhinestones to fill in the gap. The Preciosa Brand Equals Superb Quality With Swarovski Rhinestones out of the retail picture, Preciosa may emerge from its shadow. Although equal to Swarovski in quality, Swarovski has dominated the market as the premier rhinestone brand. Yet, Preciosa is the oldest manufacturer of rhinestones with over 500 years of tradition. Moreover, it was Bohemian glassmakers who created the first cut crystal stone, the Chaton, in 1715. Daniel Swarovski didn’t start his company until 1895. Today, Preciosa continues its innovative tradition with over 35,000 premium products. You can find rhinestones, jewelry stones, beads, pendants, and pearls in the company’s inventory. Plus, the craftsmanship is equal to Swarovski. Preciosa’s Maxima Rhinestone is lead free with a refractive index equal to leaded crystal. With 15 precision cut facets, craftsmen designed this rhinestone for intense scintillation.
You can find Preciosa crystal in flatback, hotfix, or sew-on rhinestones. With a multitude of colors, you’ll find a wide range of captivating colors and coatings. Moreover, these sparkling crystal colors come in over 200 rhinestones sizes and a variety of shapes. Furthermore, Preciosa adheres to all crystal industry standards. Additionally, products conform to ASTM standards and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. Rhinestones Etc. will be stocking the Maxima in the coming weeks. There Are Many Lesser-Known Inexpensive Quality Rhinestone Manufacturers In the past few years, non-brand name manufactures have proliferated the market. The Asian markets in particular, began producing a large quantity of rhinestones. Keep in mind that these manufacturers may produce either glass or crystal rhinestones. Although much cheaper in price, glass rhinestones lack the prismatic quality of crystal. Crystal has the ability to bend light producing rainbows. However, both have reflective properties through the facets and coating on the back.
One particular less expensive crystal rhinestone that we love is the PriceLess. Made from the highest-grade crystal, these rhinestones are machine cut, hand polished, and inspected for quality. You’ll find consistent hue with no bubbles or cloudiness. Moreover, these rhinestones cost a lot less than comparable brands. Plus, PriceLess are available in a wide variety of colors and sizes. Currently, we have a few of these rhinestones in stock and plan to increase our offerings in the upcoming weeks. There Are More Rhinestone Types Than Just Swarovski While it’s sad to see Swarovski rhinestones leave the retail market, it does provide an opportunity to discover new products. Many of these products produce exceptional scintillation and brilliance at a lower price. Rhinestones Etc. has been selling quality products for over 10 years. We offer our products at discount prices without compromising quality or service. And because we know you need your rhinestones right away, we ship most orders within 24 hours. In the world of glitter and glamour, the rhinestone reigns. Facets catch and reflect light creating a brilliance that is unmatched by any other embellishment. And the beauty doesn’t belong only to Hollywood stars on the red carpet. You can achieve fabulous results by applying rhinestones to dresses, shirts, shoes, pocketbooks or any other clothing and accessory. But which ones should you use, hot fix rhinestones or flat back rhinestones? Generally, it’s a matter of preference and your project. Flat back rhinestones will easily stick to more surfaces with the right adhesive. However, when you use transfer paper you can adhere more hot fix rhinestones at one time. Additionally, the glue on hot fix rhinestones cools in a few minutes, creating a permanent bond.  |
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Contour
Certainly, the most common shape of rhinestone is the circle. However, rhinestones are available in a myriad of shapes including rectangle, triangle, or oval. Moreover, fancy shapes like heart, moon or star are also available. Some brands only have the round shape available as this is the most popular shape. It’s also the least expensive shape.
In conjunction with the shape of the rhinestone is the size of the rhinestone. There are various sizes of round rhinestones measured by the “ss” or stone size. Usually, retailers will also give the millimeter size for reference. Generally, fancy shaped stones are available in millimeter sizes. Typically, it is the shape and the size that helps determine the price of the rhinestone.
So, the next time you’re rhinestone shopping, keep in mind the 4 C’s: color, cut, clarity and contour. These 4 characteristics will determine rhinestone quality and price.
And when looking for competitive pricing on rhinestones, shop Rhinestones Etc. With discount pricing and fast and friendly service, we want to be your source for rhinestones.
And when looking for competitive pricing on rhinestones, shop Rhinestones Etc. With discount pricing and fast and friendly service, we want to be your source for rhinestones.
Today, there are many rhinestone products on the market made by many different companies. It can be downright confusing when trying to decide on the best quality rhinestone. Moreover, there are several factors to consider when buying rhinestones, including what material the manufacturer makes the rhinestone from. Accordingly, you may see rhinestones advertised as crystal or glass. Is there a difference and are crystal rhinestones the best to buy?
Rhinestones Etc. sells quality crystal rhinestones at discount pricing. What’s more, you can get free shipping off your first purchase!
A Brief History
As early as 1500 BC, ancient civilizations in Mesopotamia and Egypt were making some type of glass vessels. It was during the Middle Ages, however, that glass making flourished especially in Venice and Murano, Italy. Surprisingly, it was an English businessman who in 1674 filed the first patent for leaded glass. His formula produced a heavier, denser glass with greatly increased refractive power. It’s this prismatic power, the ability to break up light like a prism, that attracted jewelers.
Particularly, a French jeweler, Georg Friedrich Strass, created the first man-made rhinestone sometime in in the early 1700s. Production blossomed in Bohemian where artisans perfected rhinestone making. However, rhinestones were still only for the wealthy as craftsmen cut each one by hand. Then in 1895, Daniel Swarovski, a Bohemian jeweler, patented an electric cutting machine which manufactured rhinestones more cheaply and quicker.
What About the Prismatic Effect?
Since then, the rhinestones market has exploded with production now also in China and Korea. Some Asian brands advertise low lead crystal and some just as glass. When purchasing rhinestones, does it really matter?
Of course, the name brand names Swarovski and Preciosa rhinestones are all cut from genuine crystal. However, because of health concerns with lead, these companies have developed crystal rhinestones without the use of lead. Their patented formulas produce high-quality crystal that has the prismatic quality.
So, what exactly is this prismatic quality and why is it so important in producing sparkle in rhinestones? Sunlight, as we know, is actually a combination of different colors on different wavelengths. Light bends as it moves from air through another surface or medium. How much the light bends as it travels through the medium is the refractive index. Dispersion, which is the separating of colors into a rainbow, is a byproduct of refraction.
Ordinary glass has refractive properties but adding lead or other metals dramatically increases the refractive index. Items with a higher refractive index tend to show more brilliance, as the medium bends light at a higher angle. Additionally, more light reflects back to the eye, rather than passing straight through the medium. Consequently, rhinestones made from material with a higher refractive index, such as crystal, will have more sparkle. Comparatively, rhinestones made from material with a lower refractive index such as glass will have less sparkle.
Crystal Rhinestones – Where to Buy
There are quality crystal rhinestones manufactured by lesser known companies. However, if maximum sparkle is important, make sure the producer cuts them from crystal and not just glass. And when shopping for rhinestones priced competitively, shop at Rhinestones Etc.
Selling online for over 10 years, Rhinestones Etc. has fast shipping, competitive pricing, and quality customer service. With a huge inventory of Preciosa Maxima Rhinestones, you're sure to find the color you need.
From earliest times, sparkling gems have captivated our attention. Generally, it was only the nobility or very rich who could afford to have jewelry made from precious stones. So, jewelers sought out alternate cheaper sources to make sparkling jewelry at a lower cost. The discovery of natural rhinestones along the Rhine River provided a supply for a time. When this natural source became depleted, jewelers looked for a way to make them.
In the early 1700’s a breakthrough came. A French jeweler by the name of Georg Friedrich Strass developed imitation gems later called rhinestones. He discovered that coating a piece of glass with metal powder created a shimmer in glass, similar to a gemstone. The novelty caught on although the imitations were still very expensive. Cutting each rhinestone by hand was labor intensive.
Nonetheless, crafting rhinestones blossomed in Bohemia, now the Czech Republic. Individual skilled artisans honed their craft producing their version of rhinestones. One of these skilled craftsmen, Daniel Swarovski, patented an electric cutting machine. This new machine cut crystal more precisely and quickly than by hand. In 1895, he moved to Austria and opened his own manufacturing plant. Meanwhile, those individual companies in Bohemia eventually merged in 1948 to form the Preciosa brand.
Today, there are many other manufacturers of rhinestones in a wide variety of shapes and colors. The Asian markets in particular, produce a large number of quality crystal rhinestones. While there are different brands of rhinestones, they all share some of the same characteristics.
Types of Rhinestones
Typically, there are 3 main rhinestone types: crystal, glass or acrylic. Rhinestones manufactured from crystal are the most expensive rhinestones. Primarily, crystal is glass mixed with lead or other components which make it clearer and prismatic. The prismatic effect is the ability to take light and break it up similar to a prism. Because of the safety concerns with lead, Swarovski and Preciosa no longer use lead in making their crystal. Both companies have achieved this without losing any sparkle from the rhinestone. This means that both types of rhinestones are CPSIA compliant and are safe for use with children.
Similar to crystal, glass rhinestones have a coating to produce a shimmer in the rhinestone as well as facets. However, glass rhinestones do not have the prismatic quality of crystal. Nevertheless, glass rhinestones typically are precision cut by machine. Occasionally, you may see rhinestones listed as DMC or MC. These rhinestones are Asian machine cut rhinestones and they may be either crystal or glass.
Finally, there are the acrylic rhinestones, the most inexpensive of all. Formed from molds, acrylic rhinestones do have facets which produce some sparkle. Acrylic rhinestones are a great choice for children’s crafts because they’re lead-free and very inexpensive.
Confused about some of the rhinestone choices? Rhinestones Etc. has a large selection of rhinestones at discount prices. We’ll be glad to answer any questions you have regarding rhinestones. You can contact us here.
Rhinestones Quality is based on Color, Cut, Contour, and Clarity
When shopping for expensive gems, jewelers recommend examining a specimen for the 4 C’s: color, cut, clarity, and carat. The grade of each of these components helps determine the gem’s value. Although slightly different, rhinestones also have 4 C’s: color, cut, clarity, contour.
Chiefly, there are many different rhinestone colors and your color choice affects the price. Crystal or clear rhinestones are the least expensive. Aurum, a gold rhinestone with a thin coating of 14k gold is the most expensive. However, within each color, the hue, tone, and saturation must be the same for consistency. The trueness and intensity of color must be the replicated throughout. Variations in color are the mark of cheaper rhinestones.
Next, cut refers to the facets. Facets are the small plane surfaces cut into the rhinestone that reflect the light. The more facets, the more light reflects and hence the rhinestone has more sparkle. Swarovski makes a rhinestone with the most facets, 16 arranged in a star shape pattern called the Xirius. Preciosa manufactures a rhinestone named Maxima with 15 facets. Other rhinestone manufacturers cut between 8 and 12 facets into their rhinestones. Generally, the more facets, the more expensive the rhinestone.
Chiefly, clarity is the lucidity or clearness of the rhinestone. The rhinestone should be free from spots, streaks or bubbles. Any type of cloudiness in the rhinestone is the mark of an inexpensive brand.
Finally, contour refers to the consistency of the shape of the rhinestone. Typically, the shape of the rhinestone also determines its price. Round rhinestones are generally the least expensive, while fancy shapes such as baguette, navette, and others more costly. Size also affects the pricing, with rhinestones increasing in price with the size.
Hot Fix Rhinestones
One type of rhinestone is the hot fix which has glue attached to the flat side. To adhere, you can use a hot fix tool, iron or heat press. Swarovski, a manufacturer of rhinestones, recommends a temperature range of 250 degrees F – 340 degrees F to activate the glue.
If you choose to use an iron, you will need one without steam vents. Irons with vents don’t provide a flat surface and consequently inadequate pressure when applying rhinestones. Also, water and steam can negatively affect the hot fix application. Never slide the iron as this may move the rhinestones. Always press down the iron and lift straight up before applying heat elsewhere.
Another way to attach hot fix rhinestones is with a hot fix tool. These tools come with different screw-on tips to accommodate different size rhinestones. To attach, you lay the rhinestones on a flat surface, facet side up. Heat up your tool, then place the tip over the top of the rhinestone. The rhinestone will stick in the cup of the tip. After about 15 seconds, the glue will begin to bubble. Tap the rhinestone onto the fabric and the rhinestone will stick. Don’t press too hard as this can cause the glue to spread and the rhinestone to stick in the cup. Allow the rhinestones to cool, which takes only a few minutes.
Unfortunately, there are some fabrics that are just not suitable for hot fix application. These include very tightly woven textiles, smooth leather or smooth imitation leather, and thin fabrics like organza. To check to see if your fabric is suitable for hot fix rhinestones, apply several drops of water. If the fabric absorbs the water droplet quickly, you can use hot fix rhinestones on it. Alternately, if the water pearls, the fabric is not suitable for hot fix rhinestones.
Flat Back Rhinestones
Another type of rhinestone is the non-hot fix or commonly referred to flat back. One way to attach flat backs or non-hot fix rhinestones is by gluing. There are a variety of rhinestone glues on the market. Some provide a better bond on certain surfaces than others. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for recommendations. Additionally, some glue manufacturers do not recommend using their product on cheaper rhinestones like acrylics.
For example, E6000 is an industrial strength glue that produces a strong bond to smooth surfaces. It works great on metal and glass. Alternately, Gem-Tac is a great fabric glue that’s easy to apply, dries clear and is washable. There are some other adhesives like Swarovski’s 2-part epoxy, Beacon’s Fabri-Tac and such. Just make sure whichever you use, its suitable for rhinestones, dries clear and if gluing to clothes, washable.
One of the key components in gluing rhinestones to clothing is the method. Many people use too little glue causing the rhinestone to peel off. It’s very important that some of the glue seeps out the sides of the rhinestone. This forms a seal to keep the rhinestone in place.
Other Methods of Attaching Rhinestones
Generally, there are some other ways of attaching rhinestones to fabrics: metal settings and sew-on rhinestones. To begin with, there are 2 types of metal settings, Tiffany and rim. Their basic difference is one secures form the inside of the garment and the other from the outside. In particular, a rim setting surrounds the rhinestone on the right side of the fabric. The prongs pierce and bend on the inside of the garment to secure the rhinestone. Whereas Tiffany settings have metal prongs pierce through to the outside of the fabric to grab the rhinestone. These prongs bend around the rhinestone to hold it into place.
Uniquely, sew-on rhinestones have pre-drilled holes in the crystal allowing a needle to pass through. Sew-0n rhinestones are available in a large variety of shapes. Similarly, a Rose Montee is a rhinestone set in a metal setting that has cross channels on the bottom. A needle easily passes through the cross channels thus, making them easy to sew on. Moreover, thin wire can pass through these channels as well, making Rose Montees ideal for jewelry making.
Sizing of Rhinestones
Admittedly, the sizing of rhinestones is unique and different. The system goes back to when rhinestones were a natural resource of sparkling quartz. Finders of these sparkling quartz stones grouped them according to their size by dropping them into different size holes. This gave the sparkling quartz a number “stone size“ or “ss”. Larger size sparkling quartz had larger numbers and smaller sized quartz smaller. Even though this natural resource no longer exists, rhinestone manufacturers still use this system of measurement.
Usually, retailers of rhinestones will give the equivalent millimeter size adjacent to the “ss” size so you can compare. Sometimes, too, retailers will have a sizing chart with a picture of the size of that particular rhinestone. You can view our millimeter/ss size chart here.
When trying to figure out how many rhinestones you need for a project will depend on the size you choose. This is especially true when you’re covering an item with rhinestones. For example, size 20ss is 4.7mm and you need about 29 rhinestones to cover 1 square inch. Compare this to size 12ss which is 3.1mm requiring 67 rhinestones to cover 1 square inch. Of course, the type of project you’re working on may influence your choice of size as well. For instance, you probably want smaller stones for rhinestones your nails yet larger rhinestones for embellishing your wedding dress.
Sizing of Rhinestones
Admittedly, the sizing of rhinestones is unique and different. The system goes back to when rhinestones were a natural resource of sparkling quartz. Finders of these sparkling quartz stones grouped them according to their size by dropping them into different size holes. This gave the sparkling quartz a number “stone size“ or “ss”. Larger size sparkling quartz had larger numbers and smaller sized quartz smaller. Even though this natural resource no longer exists, rhinestone manufacturers still use this system of measurement.
Usually, retailers of rhinestones will give the equivalent millimeter size adjacent to the “ss” size so you can compare. Sometimes, too, retailers will have a sizing chart with a picture of the size of that particular rhinestone. You can view our millimeter/ss size chart here.
When trying to figure out how many rhinestones you need for a project will depend on the size you choose. This is especially true when you’re covering an item with rhinestones. For example, size 20ss is 4.7mm and you need about 29 rhinestones to cover 1 square inch. Compare this to size 12ss which is 3.1mm requiring 67 rhinestones to cover 1 square inch. Of course, the type of project you’re working on may influence your choice of size as well. For instance, you probably want smaller stones for rhinestones your nails yet larger rhinestones for embellishing your wedding dress.
Still confused about the right choice of rhinestone for your project? Rhinestones Etc. would love to help! We’ve been selling rhinestones for over 10 years. Drop us a line here, and we’ll get back to you quickly with an answer.
Moreover, we have a huge selection of Preciosa Maxima Rhinestones. Browse our online store to find your color.
Moreover, we have a huge selection of Preciosa Maxima Rhinestones. Browse our online store to find your color.
There are many applications to using rhinestones today. From jewelry pieces, to clothing and even home decorating, rhinestones make a dazzling impact. Truly, these small pieces of crystal are impossible to ignore as they reflect light. However, if you’re newly acquainted with rhinestones, you may be confused with some of the different rhinestone brands for sale.
There are 2 big names in crystal rhinestones, Swarovski and Preciosa. While there are some other brand names such as Lux and PriceLess, these are generally less well known. Finally, there are many non-brand name rhinestones mainly manufactured in Asia. Rhinestone brands have different price structures with Swarovski being the most expensive and the lesser known brands cheaper. Generally, this is due to the number of rhinestone facets and the material used in the manufacture of the rhinestone.
Preciosa Rhinestones
The origins of manufactured rhinestones begin in Bohemia, now the Czech Republic. There skilled artisans honed their craft into producing the early version of rhinestones. Yet, it wasn’t until 1948 that these companies merged together to form the present-day company Preciosa.
Preciosa’s most popular rhinestone is the Viva 12. Made with high quality crystal, this number of rhinestone facets is 12. In 2013, the company introduced its lead-free rhinestone the Maxima. This rhinestone has a patented 15 facet cut into crystal produced without the use of toxic lead. It’s available in 39 colors, 16 coatings and 53 different sizes.
Swarovski Rhinestones
In the crystal valley of Bohemia, Daniel Swarovski made his living as a jeweler. In 1895, after patenting an electric cutting machine that cut crystal more precisely, he moved to Austria. There he opened a factory where he began to make his crystal rhinestones. Always innovative, the company unveiled the Aurora Borealis effect in 1955 which makes rhinestones shimmer in every shade of the rainbow.
Today, Swarovski continues its cutting-edge tradition introducing new palettes of color, shapes or cuts. Additionally, the company strives continuously to implement more greener sustainable manufacturing processes. In 2012, the company introduced its certified lead-free crystal. Presently, their rhinestone, the Xirius, has the greatest number of rhinestone facets of any manufacturer, 16. Moreover, Swarovski Rhinestones are available in numerous sizes and a total of over 100 intensely vibrant colors and effects.
Other Rhinestone Manufacturers
There are many other rhinestones manufacturers of rhinestones generally at a fraction of the cost of the big-name brands. The Asian markets in particular, produce a large amount of quality crystal rhinestones. Typically, these rhinestones have less facets, usually between 8 and 12. Other manufactures also may use glass rather than crystal eliminating the prismatic effect of crystal. Additionally, less colors may be available in some of these lesser known rhinestone makers.
Do You Need a Rhinestone Brand for Your Project?
Some projects such as a wedding gown may require a top of the line brand-name rhinestone. Other times, you may be able to use a lesser known rhinestones manufacturer. When considering a rhinestone brand for your project, think about your budget, scope and amount you need. If you decide you can use a lesser known brand, search for reviews of the product before you buy.
Be sure to check out the inventory at Rhinestones Etc, carrying a huge selection of Preciosa Maxima Rhinestones. Selling rhinestones online for over 10 years, we process and ship your rhinestones quickly.
Other Rhinestone Manufacturers
There are many other rhinestones manufacturers of rhinestones generally at a fraction of the cost of the big-name brands. The Asian markets in particular, produce a large amount of quality crystal rhinestones. Typically, these rhinestones have less facets, usually between 8 and 12. Other manufactures also may use glass rather than crystal eliminating the prismatic effect of crystal. Additionally, less colors may be available in some of these lesser known rhinestone makers.
Do You Need a Rhinestone Brand for Your Project?
Some projects such as a wedding gown may require a top of the line brand-name rhinestone. Other times, you may be able to use a lesser known rhinestones manufacturer. When considering a rhinestone brand for your project, think about your budget, scope and amount you need. If you decide you can use a lesser known brand, search for reviews of the product before you buy.
Be sure to check out the inventory at Rhinestones Etc, carrying a huge selection of Preciosa Maxima Rhinestones. Selling rhinestones online for over 10 years, we process and ship your rhinestones quickly.
Most people know Swarovski as the premier brand of crystal and rhinestones. Their Xirius Rhinestones has more facets than any other manufacturer, 16. Together with the array of stunning colors of rhinestones make them the rhinestone of choice. While known for the quality of crystal the company produces, most people are unaware of their recycling efforts. Truly, Swarovski has been at the edge of innovation from the very beginning of their existence. Some people aren’t aware of their environmental initiatives as they continually strive to make Swarovski Rhinestone the green alternative.
Nowadays, many people are concerned with factories and their impact on the Earth. Many are trying to be greener or use sustainable practices to create a cleaner and healthier environment. Certainly, Swarovski is one of those companies who takes greener initiatives very seriously.
History of Swarovski
Founded in 1895 by Daniel Swarovski in Austria, the fifth generation of family members run the company. Indeed, from the very beginning, Swarovski factories have been creating crystal through environmentally sound practices. In 2010, the company decided to take a more formal approach and issued the first of its sustainability reports.
Henceforth, every 2 years, the company takes a hard look at their practices and issues a report on their progress. Swarovski continually seeks new opportunities to reduce energy consumption and lower emissions by adopting innovative energy efficiency measures and identifying opportunities to use renewable energy.
According to their 2017 report, the company has a 26% decline in total energy consumption since 2010. The report cites the following energy efficiency and recycling efforts:
Founded in 1895 by Daniel Swarovski in Austria, the fifth generation of family members run the company. Indeed, from the very beginning, Swarovski factories have been creating crystal through environmentally sound practices. In 2010, the company decided to take a more formal approach and issued the first of its sustainability reports.
Henceforth, every 2 years, the company takes a hard look at their practices and issues a report on their progress. Swarovski continually seeks new opportunities to reduce energy consumption and lower emissions by adopting innovative energy efficiency measures and identifying opportunities to use renewable energy.
According to their 2017 report, the company has a 26% decline in total energy consumption since 2010. The report cites the following energy efficiency and recycling efforts:
- Carbon Emissions, 59% decline in emissions since 2010
- Renewable Energy, 33% of the energy consumed is from renewable sources
- Recycled Water, 70% of the water demand is through recycling,
- Recycle, reuse or compost 37% of the waste generated in production processes
- Recycling of all the rare earth minerals used in the crystal polishing process with a yield of 80%
The Lead-Free Alternative – Swarovski Rhinestone
Certainly, scientific studies have proven without a doubt about the negative effects of lead. Unfortunately, for many years the only way to manufacture crystal was to include lead as an ingredient in the process. However, with the negative effects of lead, producers of crystal have sought to make crystal without lead.
Since 2012, Swarovski has been doing just that with 100% of its crystal line is completely lead -free. The company has a patented formula that does not sacrifice the quality associated with Swarovski. Therefore, you can feel completely confident in using Swarovski Rhinestones to embellish your young daughter’s dance costume.
Where to Buy Rhinestones
Rhinestones Etc. has been selling embellishments online for 10 years. We have competitive pricing on rhinestones and great customer service.
There are many rhinestones brands on the market today with many colors and sizes to choose from. Additionally, between various brands, there is different pricing. Sometimes, as you are shopping, it can be downright confusing. You want the best rhinestone on the market but have some other questions. Where’s one of the best places to buy Swarovski loose rhinestones that has excellent customer service?
Look no further than Rhinestones Etc, an experienced rhinestones seller with over 10 years in the rhinestone business. We want you to be happy with your purchase.
Why should you buy Swarovski Loose Rhinestones Instead of Some Other Brand?
To begin with, Swarovski is the premier name in rhinestones. Although not the oldest manufacturer, as that distinction belongs to Precosia. Swarovski is certainly on the forefront of innovation. Since 1895, they have been on the cutting edge in producing those dazzling pieces of crystal. Currently, the company’s Xirius rhinestone has more facets than any other rhinestone on the market, 16. And the arrangement of these facets reflects a dazzling amount of light. In addition, Swarovski crystal is lead free since 2012.
Moreover, the facets, color choices and shapes they have available, makes Swarovski the number one choice of many consumers. When only the best will do, you want Swarovski.
Now what?
Once you’ve decided on the brand, there are still other options to consider when buying rhinestones: color, size and quantity. Some of your choices will depend on the look you want to achieve. While other choices depend on the area you want to cover with bling.
First, do you want the rhinestone to blend in and just add sparkle? Then you will want a color very similar to the item you are blinging. If you want a pattern to stand out, then you will want to go with a contrasting color.
Second, the size of rhinestone will depend on the design. For example, if you are blinging words you can use a double row of smaller sized rhinestones. Then again, for a slightly different look, use a single row of larger rhinestones. Some designs lend themselves to a variety of sizes.
Finally, the quantity you need will depend on again, your design and how you are spacing the rhinestones out.
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Still have questions?
Sometimes, you just need to talk to someone to walk you through the process. Or maybe you need a different amount than what you see packaged. Moreover, you may want to talk with someone who knows rhinestones and can help you make the best choices. We, at Rhinestones Etc, want to help you make the best rhinestone choices for your project.
Browse our online store to find your rhinestones supplies.
If you are new to rhinestones, you know the choices can be overwhelming! Even with just sew on rhinestones they are different types. Most have predrilled holes on the ends of the rhinestones to make them easy to sew. Simply sew through the holes to attach the rhinestone. However, one type of sew on rhinestone is different; it has a metal setting attached. This rhinestone, called a Rose Montee, has cross channels underneath in the setting.
Using Rose Montees gives you the look of a metal setting without prongs piercing through your clothing material. A needle can be easily threaded through the cross channels to sew to your clothing.
But one of the most exciting uses is in jewelry design. Although primarily manufactured as a sew on rhinestone, Rose Montees are also great for jewelry makers. Depending in the gauge of the wire, either 1 or 2 wires can be threaded through the cross channels.
How to Use Rose Montees in Jewelry Making
The underneath cross channels make Rose Montees ideal for jewelry making. Simple or elaborate patterns can be used to make a variety of rhinestone jewelry pieces. Even if you are not an experienced, you can make some simple jewelry with Rose Montees.
Use two pieces of thin flexible wire to thread through the channels. Loop the ends and hold together with crimp beads. Attach a clasps and you have a tennis style bracelet.
The underneath cross channels make Rose Montees ideal for jewelry making. Simple or elaborate patterns can be used to make a variety of rhinestone jewelry pieces. Even if you are not an experienced, you can make some simple jewelry with Rose Montees.
Use two pieces of thin flexible wire to thread through the channels. Loop the ends and hold together with crimp beads. Attach a clasps and you have a tennis style bracelet.
Larger size Rose Montees can be threaded with 20-22 gauge wire and then wrapped to make a ring. Try different wire wraps and different size rhinestones for a different look.
Let’s not forget about earrings! Thread a head pin through the cross channels. Make a loop and attach a jump ring and earring wires for a pair of earrings. For a slightly different look, use several different sizes.
Set your imagination free and see what you can come up with! Rose Montees are ideal for so many of your jewelry making projects.
Do you need some Rose Montees to get started on your next project? Rhinestones Etc can help! With discount prices, excellent customer service, and a great selection of embellishments, we want to see you sparkle!
And now get free shipping off your first purchase from Rhinestones Etc! Just click on the button above to get your coupon code!
Karen
I have been adding bling for over 20 years. Through my projects, I hope you find inspiration.
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