Rhinestones | Performance Glossary
Rhinestones are faceted decorative stones — made from glass, acrylic, or crystal — used to embellish performance costumes, footwear, and accessories. Their faceted surfaces catch and reflect stage lighting, creating sparkle and visual impact visible from a distance.
Types of Rhinestones
Hotfix
Heat-activated glue backing. Applied with a hotfix applicator tool. Most common for fabric embellishment.
Sew-On
Feature holes for thread attachment. Most durable option — won't fall off with sweat or movement.
Glue-On / Flatback
Flat back applied with gem glue. Used on shoes, accessories, and non-fabric surfaces.
Quality Tiers
Crystal rhinestones (such as those from Austrian manufacturers) offer the highest light refraction and are standard for competition costumes. Glass rhinestones are mid-tier — excellent for stage at a lower cost. Acrylic rhinestones are the most affordable and work well for rehearsal pieces or costumes viewed from a distance.