Rhinestones on Nails Have A Long Historical Tradition

​In recent times, sporting nail bling has become an important fashion story. For example, Jennifer Lopez, Cardi B, and Selena Gomez have all made the news for their blinged out nail crystals. While this may seem like a modern trend, rhinestones on nails have a long and ancient tradition.

Ancient Civilizations and Nail Art

As early as 3200 B.C., humans were coloring their nails. However, it was the ancient Babylonian men, not the women, who colored their nails. Before going off to battle, warriors painted their nails with kohl. Around the same time, other ancient cultures began experimenting with dyeing nails.

In Egypt, both men and women and men colored their nails. The famous queens Nefertiti and Cleopatra loved to paint their nails red. Furthermore, Cleopatra also wore fake nails made of porcelain powder. On the Asian continent, Indian women dyed various body parts, including fingernails, with henna.

Typically, many historians credit the Chinese with the invention of the first nail polish. Chinese women soaked their nails in egg white, gelatin, beeswax, and flowers to color their nails. The upper-class women also elevated decorated nails to a new level of art by wearing highly ornamented protectors. Typically, artisans made nail guards from gold or silver and adorned them with precious gemstones.

During the Dark Ages, manicures fell out of favor even among the aristocrats. A renewed interest in presenting well-taken care of fingers began again around the 1750s. Practitioners specializing in manicures began to open up shops. No longer seen as a status symbol, people across social classes kept their nails clean and neatly trimmed. Moreover, manicure sets became an essential part of households.

Modern Nail Art Includes Rhinestones on Nails

Modern nail designs began with the invention of nail polish by Northam Warren in 1917. As the years progressed, inventors improved upon the original product to produce a variety of new glossy colors. Additionally, as demand grew, so did new products for styling.  

Moreover, throughout the following decades, women began experimenting with nail color. Although new exciting colors became available, many opted for a monochromatic look. When the early 1980s began, some nail technicians began treating nails as more of an art canvas. One particular Olympic sprinter, Florence Griffith Joyner, became known for her multi-colored crystal nails.

In the following years, women continued to express their creative freedom through nail art.  Today, rhinestones on nails continue to be a trendy fashion element. From a hint of sparkle to opulent glitter, technicians can add different colors, sizes, or shapes to create your look. It’s the perfect way to accessorize and show off your unique style.

FAQs About Rhinestones on Nails

Are you ready to make a fashion statement by creating stunning blinged out nails? Many nail salons offer this service, but you can also create your own nail art at home. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about using nail crystals.

Is it Easy To Create Crystal Nails?

Yes! You’ll need either nail glue or a resin adhesive that cures like a gel polish to adhere rhinestones to nails. It’s easy and requires a few supplies, depending on your method.  If you choose to use nail glue, you’ll need a top coat to apply around the edges of the crystal. While if you opt for a gel adhesive, you’ll need a UV light to cure the adhesive.

Can I Use Gel Nail Polish?

You can add rhinestones to gel nail polish without the use of an additional adhesive. Moreover, applying rhinestones with gel nail polish is also super simple. However, you will need a UV nail lamp to cure the polish. Inexpensive UV nail lights start at about $10.

What Is the Best Type of Rhinestone to Use on Nails?

Today, you can find resin, acrylic, glass, and crystal rhinestones. Each rhinestone type begins with different components and manufacturing processes. Consequently, you’ll find a wide range of pricing and facet arrangement between brands. For ultimate sparkle, choose a crystal rhinestone with a minimum of 10 facets.

Where Can I Buy Quality Rhinestones?

Since 2011, Rhinestones Etc. has been supplying rhinestones to dance studios, DIYers, and small business owners. We want to be your source for sparkling nail art supplies. Visit our online store to discover our competitive pricing. Plus, we have fast shipping and great customer service.