​What Different Rhinestone Colors Do Manufacturers Offer?

Shopping for rhinestone colors can be fun, yet overwhelming. You’ll find many beautiful hues and shades. Some manufacturers offer over 100 different options. So, how do you choose from among the many choices?

Rhinestone Colors Vary Due to the Manufacturing Process

Often, manufacturers will use the same color names to describe a particular color. For example, almost all rhinestone companies use the following designations for similar hues:

• Light Rose
• Topaz
• Jet
• Siam
• Sapphire
• Emerald
• Peridot

However, even though rhinestone manufacturers may use the same name, the color may be slightly different.  Generally, the color brightness and saturation of rhinestone colors depend upon light.  Primarily, we perceive color based on how much light the object absorbs or reflects light. Moreover, different rhinestone materials absorb and reflect light differently.

Typically, you’ll find 3 basic types of materials among rhinestone manufacturers: acrylic, glass, and crystal. Sometimes, you may also see jelly or resin rhinestones, but these are a type of acrylic. Acrylic material allows more light than glass or crystal to pass through it. Yet, glass and crystal rhinestones allow for greater light reflection. This is one reason for the color variations between manufacturers.

Then, there’s the choice of coloring process. Some manufacturers add copper, chromium, cobalt, and other inorganic compounds to produce color. Usually, these include manufacturers of glass or crystal rhinestones. Others use pigments to change the hue. Often, these are companies producing acrylic rhinestones. These different processes can result in slightly different shades of the same color.

Categories of Rhinestone Colors
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Once you’ve decided on the type of rhinestone you want to use, you can browse the manufacturer's selections. Often, manufacturers group their products into rhinestone color categories:

• Crystal
• Crystal AB
• Standard Colors
• AB Colors/Shimmer AB
• Coated Colors

Usually, the 2 most popular choices are crystal and crystal AB due to the fact they match everything. Crystal is clear while crystal AB is clear with an iridescent coating giving it a rainbow effect. Some people prefer the AB rhinestone over the crystal for its ability to reflect the colors around it.

Generally, standard colors are your typical broad palette of colors like reds, blues, greens, purples, yellows, and opals. Typically, opal rhinestones have a pearly luster similar to the gemstone.  For example, Rose Opal is an iridescent milky white with a slight pink hue.

Basically, AB and Shimmer AB colors are standard colors with the iridescent coating on top. The difference between the two is the AB has a heavier coating than the Shimmer AB. Both give you the rainbow effect on the surface while the underneath standard color shines through.

Finally, metallics, neons, and a few other colors fall into the coated color category. These special-effect rhinestones may have a surface or backside coating to produce their unique coloring.

Choosing the Best Colors for Your Project

Usually, picking your color selection for whatever rhinestone project you’re about to undertake can appear challenging. Some experts claim clashing colors are trendy while others warn against creating a contrasting visual. So, who’s right?

Typically, your choice of color depends on your project and the statement you want to make. For example, are you bedazzling a dance costume? In this case, you may want to use bright, vivid colors for a bold statement. Bedazzling a formal dress? You may want to use softer, muted hues. Remember, choosing colors is a personal preference and there is no right or wrong answer.

FAQs About Rhinestones

Ready to begin your project but have some more questions about rhinestones? Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions.

Can I Glue Rhinestones to Any Type of Fabric?

Generally, you can glue rhinestones to any surface including fabrics. However, some adhesives work better with some materials than others. For example, natural leather has oils that can weaken the bond of some glues. Other surfaces, like metals, are smooth and non-porous. Always check the adhesive manufacturer’s guidelines before starting your project.

Can I Wash Bedazzled Clothing?

Yes, you can. However, it’s important to follow the recommended technique for gluing rhinestones. Then, when you need to wash your bedazzled clothing, turn your garment inside out and use a garment bag. You’ll also want to use the gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Alternatively, you can hand-wash your blinged out garment.

Does It Matter What Rhinestone Brand I Buy?

Over the years, new manufacturers of rhinestones have entered the marketplace. You may see different names like DMC, MC, resign, or jelly designations. Usually, different rhinestones will also have varying cost structures. Moreover, you’ll find a big price difference between a name brand crystal rhinestone and a generic acrylic embellishment.

Often, your project will help determine which rhinestone brand is best. For example, less expensive rhinestones are perfect for kids’ crafts. Whereas, you may want to use a high-quality brand name to bedazzle your wedding dress. Accordingly, you’ll want to buy your rhinestones from a trusted source.

Since 2011,Rhinestones Etc. has been offering high-quality embellishments. We have a huge inventory of colors and sizes and we continue to expand our stock. Browse our online store to find your hue.