The term "rhinestone" came into use in the late 1800's, tourists to
the Rhine country of Europe, where quartz pebbles that sparkled
with many shades of color, were sold as souvenirs from the Rhine
River. As the supply dwindled the manufacturing ensued, and the
widely used name, "rhinestone" emerged.
Europeans' call them paste, diamente, strass and austrian crystal,
which are essentially molded leaded glass, some with foil backs of
silver and gold, to refract light.
Cleaning with a soft toothbrush and household glass cleaner and a
terry towel, which can be very useful in trapping any loose stones, I
find is the the best way to care for rhinestone jewelry. Tap off
excess moisture from your brush, as to not allow to much moisture
to get behind delicate foil backed stones, towel dry immediately,
taking care to buff off the back side of the piece to remove excess
wetness, colognes and perspiration before storing.
One other thought, if your jewelry piece has lost a stone or prong,
restoration is always an option. Vintage and contemporary
replacement parts are plentiful.
Contact me if you have a piece you would like to repair, I may be
able to assist.
JEWELRY CARE AND INFORMATION
|
