1-800-340-3525
	(952) 848-0133
	FAX: (952) 848-0134
	3947 Excelsior Blvd., Suite 101
	St. Louis Park, MN 55416

Home Color Choices Request Information About Our Rhinestones About Us Attaching Rhinestones Rhinestone Story

About our rhinestones Our customers often inquire regarding the most appropriate uses for our products We are not professional costumers, gemologists or jewelers, therefore, we can only offer our opinions and experiences drawn from many years supplying the performing arts industry. The most frequently asked questions from customers are - what quality, size and color of crystals do you recommend? The most popular sizes are 20ss and 30ss.  The most common colors are crystal and crystal aurora borealis. We answer the quality question with a question - what are the specifics of your application? We believe the three factors are brilliance/luster, cut/quality, and cost. In our opinion, cut/quality is not visible from three feet, however it does affect brilliance/luster. To help make your decision we suggest that you compare your brilliance/luster needs with your budget limitations. You may also decide that a mixture of stones would help achieve a certain affect and keep the cost at your desired level. Most of our customers buy some of each stone quality. Swarovski Austrian crystal rhinestones Swarovski leaded crystal rhinestones, made in Austria, set the standard upon which all other stones are measured. They have consistently been recognized as the highest quality stones due to their superior cut and clarity which provides the best possible sparkle and brilliance. They are also the most expensive. If your budget is not an issue, then buy Swarovski. Czech crystal rhinestones Crystals are also manufactured in the Czech Republic.  In our opinion, these leaded crystal machine cut stones (we call them Czech Superiors) are comparable to Swarovski and the cost is considerably less. Czech glass rhinestones The difference in glass stones relates primarily to the lack of consistent quality due to the material (glass vs. leaded crystal) and the cut (facets are not individually cut, only the fronts and backs).  These stones provide an acceptable alternative in consideration of their lower cost. Acrylic rhinestones These are the least expensive stones. The cuts and the facets are fairly sharp but the material (plastic) has less luster than the leaded glass used in crystal rhinestones. If budget is of prime importance you can add substantial value to the presentation of your performers costumes with acrylics. If you have any questions on a specific application we are at your service in order to provide the lowest possible cost in your use of rhinestones. Let your creative mind wander and don't minimize the importance of the costume for your performers confidence and for making the best impression on your audience.