Rhinestone: meaning, definitions and examples

The term 'rhinestone' originates from the 18th century, deriving from the word 'rhin' which refers to the River Rhine in Germany. Initially, the stones were real gemstones collected from the river, but as their popularity grew, artisans began to create glass replicas that mimicked the diamond-like qualities of these natural stones. These imitation gems were named 'rhinestones' as a nod to their original source. Over time, advancements in glass-making led to the creation of high-quality, sparkling rhinestones that became a staple in fashion and jewelry design, especially during the 20th century. Today, rhinestones are widely used not just in jewelry but also in various fashion accessories, costumes, and decor, epitomizing the blend of luxury and affordability.

Ranking #36,902, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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• 36899 interspersing
• 36900 earful
• 36901 implausibility
• 36902 rhinestone
• 36903 arduously
• 36904 moistness
• 36905 bullhorn
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