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.

Austria and the Czech Republic are world renowned for producing the finest rhinestons. Rather than being crafted from plastic like many rhinestones on the market, those made in Europe are often leaded glass crystal. The difference is in the sparkle, the fire and the longevity of the wear. Even after decades, a real crystal rhinestone will not lose its brilliance and shine. Rhinestone jewelry made in the 1930's and 1940's has survived today and still looks gorgeous.

George Fredrich Strass, the inventor of rhinestones, discovered a way to coat the clear stones he found in the Rhine River in 1775. He was thrilled to discover the result: a sparkling stone that looked like a diamond! Eventually, glass crystals replaced river stones. In 1892 they went mainstream with Daniel Swarovski received a patent for his machine which automatically cut the stones with uniformity and precision. This caused rhinestones to become much more affordable and accessible to the public. Swarovski remains the largest maker of rhinestones to this day.

Rhinestones are available in every conceivable color, size and shape. 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. Make sure before you place your order that you are getting genuine crystals from Austria or Czech republic. You get what you pay for when it comes to rhinestones.

In addition to rhinestones, crystal beads are made by the same companies. 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. Millions of crafters–whether professional or amateur–have used these beads in every way possible.

You'll be able to use your imagination in limitless ways with rhinestones. Use genuine crystals and beads to create unique clothing and accessories that can't be found anywhere else.

Other than the Swarovski Rhinestones, you can also look at Hot Fix Crystals