Rhinestones are universally loved for their sparkle and brilliance. They grace millions of wedding gowns and other wedding accessories every year. Pearls are luminous, lustrous, gorgeous organic gems that come in a wide variety of colors and shapes, and are perennial favorites for brides and their wedding party. Each complements the other, and together they make jewelry the shining highlight of this special day, next to the bride's natural glow, of course! Be radiant in rhinestones and pearls on your wedding day. Enhance your femininity by wearing this lovely and delicate, yet most glamorous of jewelry combinations. A stunning accent to white, cream, cafe au lait, pink, peach, even red, or dramatic black—sparkling rhinestones and lustrous pearls make your wedding pop! Always a stunning accent for classic looks and especially bridal wear, rhinestones and pearls capture the essence of femininity and grace.

About Rhinestones
In my opinion, one can never wear too many rhinestones. Particularly today, when jewelry designer's are creating some of the most wonderful rhinestone pieces exuding class and style, never gaudy or cheap-looking. High quality rhinestones are treasured components of bridal and fashion jewelry, and have been for years. They seem never to go 'out of style'.

Mass production of rhinestones began in 1892 when Daniel Swarovski, of the famous Swarovski crystal family, received a patent for a machine that cut the stones automatically. The success of this manufacturer's product along with the inherent beauty of the stone, seen rhinestones become very popular and prices suddenly affordable. In 1895, Swarovski set up a factory in Austria and began production of Austrian crystals in earnest. His rhinestones were of superior quality and uniformity. This success enabled his three sones to join the business and many innovations followed for the Swarovski family. By the time of Daniel Swarovski's death in 1956, the company had become (and still is) the premier manufacturer and exporter of rhinestones.

In addition to the celebrated Swarovski rhinestones, there are several notable manufacturers of quality rhinestones throughout the world including China, Austria, Czech Republic, and other countries.

About Pearls
Pearls come in a wide variety of colors and shapes. As rare in nature as they are beautiful, pearls are the only gemstones that require no cutting (faceting) or refining. Formed when an object such as a grain of sand lodges inside an oyster or mussel, the mollusk secretes layers of a substance called nacre to protect itself. However, due to this rare occurrence in nature, pearls became that elusive treasure that man simply had to find a way to duplicate. Voila! In 1893, jeweler, Kokichi Mikimoto, perfected a system of forcing oysters to create pearls by injecting them with shell fragments to stimulate nacre production—the cultured pearl was born!

Shopping for Rhinestones & Pearls
Look for quality outlets, places you know or who have a great reputation for customer service and quality products. Rhinestones should be set in rhodium or anti-tarnish plating over sterling silver or brass. The piece should exhibit an intriguing sparkle and have a feeling of quality. Swarovski is always a good choice, but don't forget about less expensive alternatives from China, Czech Republic, and other countries. Somehow premium quality rhinestones are almost self-evident when you see them, and handle them—their beauty comes alive in well-designed jewelry.

When shopping for pearls, remember that quality is gauged by luster, that luminescent glow that allows you to see your reflection and surface perfection (a smooth texture free of bumps and pits). In addition, the size, shape, and color will be evidence of quality pearls. Perfectly round pearls are very rare and costly. Consider purchasing beautiful jewelry fashioned with Swarovski crystal 'pearls'. These phenomenal faux pearls look like the real thing without the exorbitant expense.

Wear rhinestones and pearls with confidence on your most special of days, they are the classic wedding day accessory!