rhinestone

rhinestoneTiara adorned with rhinestones.

rhinestone, colourless, faceted glass used in jewelry; also foil-backed or silvered cut glass used to imitate diamonds. Originally used to designate gemstones cut from rock crystal obtained from the Rhine River, Germany, the name historically has been applied to faceted rock crystal in general. See also paste.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.
Citation Information
Article Title: rhinestone
Website Name: Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published: 14 August 2008
Access Date: February 23, 2025