The Story of Swarovski Rhinestones - By: Max Luke

Rhinestones are seductive in their sparkle and brilliance, used to adorn everything from jewelry to garments to clothing and more. Anything can be made more dazzling and attractive with the application of some rhinestones.

For the highest quality rhinestones, look for those made in Austria or the Czech Republic. Made from leaded glass crystal, they are far superior to the plastic rhinestones found in today's market. The difference can be seen in the sparkle and long life of the genuine stones. A genuine crystal rhinestone can last for decades without losing its brlliance. Today you can find rhinestone costume jewelry made in the 1930's which is still wearable.

Rhinstones were first invented in 1775 when George Fredrich Strass decided to coat the clear stones he found in the Rhine River with a foil backing. The result was a gorgeous stone that could easily be mistaken for a diamond! Glass crystals came to replace the river stones eventually. In 1892, rhinestones became mainstream when Daniel Swarovski won the patent to the machine he invented which automatically cut the stones. This made it possible to make more stones in less time and at far less cost. Swarovski is still the biggest manufacturer of crystals in the world.

You can find rhinestones in an amazing range of colors and styles. The use of crystals in formal wear, wedding gowns and other exquisite pieces is unmistakable. Swarovski makes a popular flat-backed rhinestone that can easily be attached to almost any kind of fabric.

Use only vendors who are trustworthy. Be sure they are selling authentic Swarovski or Czech crystals as opposed to the plastic rhinestones which become cloudy and lose their sparkle very quickly. You get what you pay for when it comes to rhinestones.

Most companies making rhinestones also make crystal beads. Swarovski has an enormous line of beads in all shapes, sizes and colors. You'll find them in all kinds of handcrafted jewelry and accessories. Crafters all over the world have come to rely on these beads for their very best projects.

When it comes to using rhinestones, your only limit is your imagination. Use genuine crystals and beads to create unique clothing and accessories that can't be found anywhere else.

Rhinestones provide a luxurious sparkle to jewelry, clothing, accessories and other precious pieces. Even the simplest items can be transformed into glamour using them.

Other than the Flat Back Swarovski Rhinestones, you can also look at Swarovski Hotfix Crystals