The original term "rhinestone" came from the Rhine River in Austria. The river was filled with quartz pebbles in brilliant colors in the late 1800’s. Once this natural source was depleted, imitation glass rhinestones replaced them. (The image to the left is a stunning example of vintage Rose Montees all worked into a Miriam Haskell designed clasp.) You may hear of rhinestones referred to as "paste". Originally, glass was ground into an actual paste and then molded and melted into shape. These manufactured stones would have many air bubbles, but the high lead content of the glass was cut with many facets and then backed with a metallic coating to give off lots of reflections of light. Rhinestones are often referred to as "paste" or "strass". These beads are spectacular. Can’t wait to wear them! They’re very unusual. I think my customers will love them too.
Beautiful blue labradorite cabochons. I had to get it for its flash and the price. The thing is, I have only some experience setting cabochons so I hope I can do it justice.
Love my man in the moon cabs!
it is beautiful! I can hardly wait to make it into something wearable!
The beads are beautiful and I was grateful to find them as my usual supplier has been out of stock for some time. They came quickly and were carefully packaged.
I loved it! However, it was larger than expected, too large for the proposed purpose, so I gave it to a healer friend of mine. She loved it!