Rhinestones: colors, difference from zirconia and care

Rhinestones are decorative stones used in jewellery to add extra shine and sparkle—often as a more affordable alternative to gemstones and diamonds. They are typically made from glass or crystal, which means they can come in many colours, from clear/white to bold shades like blue, green, and pink. Rhinestones are known for their bright light reflection and the facets that make them glitter when they move. The look can be elegant or party-ready, depending on the size and colour. With a bit of care, rhinestones can stay beautiful for a long time, but they should be handled gently when it comes to water, chemicals, and impacts.

Rhinestones are a term many people come across when looking for jewellery with sparkling stones. They are not a specific “natural stone”, but rather a decorative stone type that is typically manufactured to create a clear, shiny look. That is why rhinestones are especially popular in jewellery where you want an eye-catching expression without choosing gemstones.

What are rhinestones?

Rhinestones are man-made stones most commonly made from glass or crystal/crystal glass. They are cut with facets so they reflect light and sparkle. Rhinestones are used in everything from earrings and hair accessories to bracelets and festive details on jewellery.

Historically, the term “rhinestone” was linked to stones designed to imitate diamonds and create a dazzling effect—but today it generally refers to decorative, sparkling stones.

What colour are rhinestones?

Rhinestones come in a wide range of colours because they can be manufactured in precise shades. The most common colours are:

clear/white
black
blue, green, red, pink, purple
champagne/golden tones

You may also see “AB”/iridescent rhinestones that shift through multiple colours depending on the light.

Are rhinestones the same as cubic zirconia?

No, they are not the same—even though both can be used for a diamond-like look. A simple difference:

Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic stone with high clarity and a more “gem-like” feel, often used in finer jewellery.
Rhinestones are typically glass/crystal and are often used more decoratively in designs where you want a lot of sparkle at a more accessible price.

Both can look great—it mainly comes down to style, budget, and how the jewellery will be used.

Are rhinestones real stones?

Rhinestones are usually not natural stones. They are manufactured (most often from glass/crystal glass). Many people choose rhinestones precisely because they deliver strong visual impact without opting for natural gemstones.

What do rhinestones look like in jewellery?

Rhinestones are characterised by:

strong shine and light reflection
facets that create a noticeable “flash” in movement
options ranging from small, subtle stones to larger, more festive stones

Small rhinestones can add an elegant highlight, while larger stones—or many rhinestones in one piece—create a more party-like, statement look.

Can rhinestones fall out of jewellery?

It can happen if the stones are exposed to heavy wear or impact—especially if jewellery frequently hits hard surfaces, or if glue/settings are affected by water and chemicals. That is why it is a good idea to handle rhinestone jewellery a bit more gently, especially for everyday wear.

Can rhinestones handle water, soap, and perfume?

Rhinestones should not be exposed to unnecessary water and chemicals, as this can affect both shine and how well the stones are secured. To extend the lifespan, it is typically recommended to avoid:

bathing and swimming (chlorine/salt)
washing-up and cleaning products
perfume, hair spray, and creams directly on the jewellery

How do you clean rhinestones?

Always clean rhinestones gently:

wipe the jewellery with a soft, dry cloth
if needed: use a slightly damp cloth and dry immediately

Avoid soaking the jewellery, and avoid hard brushes or chemicals. If rhinestones lose their sparkle, it is often due to a film from products (lotion, makeup, soap), and a gentle wipe can often help.

How should you store rhinestone jewellery?

Store the jewellery separately so the stones do not rub against other pieces. A small pouch, a box, or a separate compartment in a jewellery case makes a big difference to prevent scratches and reduce the risk of stones loosening over time.

Why do many people choose rhinestones?

Rhinestones are popular because they:

add lots of shine and “wow” effect
come in many colours and styles
can make a simple piece feel more festive
are often a budget-friendly way to get a sparkling look

They are a great choice for both statement jewellery and small details that simply add a little extra.