What is a Swarovski Rhinestone?
While Carol Channing sang "diamonds are a girl's best friend," she did not know about Swarovski rhinestones. These stones not only make a good best friend, they are also friendlier to the budget. Also called crystals, these sparkling jewels add glamor and "bling" to almost any fashion piece or accessory. These sparking bits of lead-cut crystal are considered one of the top-quality alternatives to diamonds. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types
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The Swarovski brand continues to develop different types and hues of rhinestones. There are currently flat-back rhinestones, hot fix rhinestones (that are applied with heat), sew-on rhinestones and new shades of violet and rose. The advantage of sew-on rhinestones is that they can be removed from one piece and attached to another piece. Swarovski also sells a rhinestone color chart that helps consumers determine the right color match for a piece of fabric.
History
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In 1892, Daniel Swarovski invented the automatic cutting machine. He developed the technology and opened a crystal-cutting factory in Austria, where he used hydroelectricity to power the grinding of the jewels. Swarovski rhinestones contain over 30 percent lead which lends them remarkable refraction. Some crystals are also coated with metallic chemical layers to create a brilliantly-hued sheen. Among the coatings applied are aurora borealis, crystal transmission, dorado, volcano and aurum. In 2004, the brand came out with Xilion, a patented new cut that added sheen to the flat-back and diamond-cut rhinestones.
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Function
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Swarovski rhinestones, also known as crystals, are often used in crafts. They are a common costume element for dancers and skaters. They are ideal for theater costumes because of the way they pick up stage lights. Fabric and clothing designers use them for trim and decoration. Jewelry designers incorporate them in original pieces as well as using them to repair old treasures. They are also used as fingernail embellishments at nail salons. They add sparkle to denim pockets, purses, cell phones and shoes. With a little bit of lash glue, they can adorn the tips of eyelashes.
Considerations
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Like any crafty endeavor, using Swarovski rhinestones demands some supplies. Depending upon the project, you may require transfer film, tweezers, the Bejeweler Hot Fix Tool, and needles and thread. In addition, Swarovski creates rhinestone stretch banding, rhinestone zippers and rhinestone clasps which saves the time of applying individual rhinestones to an accessory.
Benefits
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The primary benefit of Swarovski rhinestones is that they add sparkle and style for far less than diamonds. You can typically buy them in quantities of six dozen and up at a discount, costing under $25. They are adaptable to all types of fashion, functional as simple necklaces, rings and earrings as well as in more ornate items like tiaras and brooches.
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