Glossary

Glass imitation gemstones/rhinestones made from a special type of glass containing lead, which was then cut in the same way as real diamonds to imitate them. Early form of costume jewellery. Developed in the 18th century by goldsmith George F. Strass. Special refraction was created using bismuth and thallium, while specific colours were achieved using metal salts. Like real stones, rhinestones were often coated or given extra sparkle with a vapour-deposited mirror coating.