Definition

Noun: 1. An imitation diamond: A rhinestone is a type of gemstone made from glass, rock crystal, or paste that is designed to imitate the sparkle and appearance of a real diamond at a much lower cost.

Usage

Rhinestones are decorative items used primarily in fashion and costume jewelry. - The singer's costume was covered in glittering rhinestones. - She prefers rhinestone earrings because they are affordable and stylish.

Advanced Usage

• "Rhinestone" as a modifier: The term is often used attributively (like an adjective) to describe objects adorned with these imitation gems.
  • He wore a rhinestone cowboy hat to the party.
  • The boutique sells rhinestone-encrusted phone cases.

Variants and Related Words

• Paste (noun): A type of high-quality glass used to make imitation gemstones, including rhinestones.
• Strass: A specific type of lead glass historically used to make high-quality rhinestones, named after its inventor.

Synonyms

• Imitation diamond
• Diamond simulant
• Paste jewel

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "Rhinestone cowboy": (Idiom) A term, popularized by a song, referring to someone, especially from the American West, who dresses in flamboyant, glittering cowboy-style clothing, often implying a showy or inauthentic persona.
  • At the themed party, he arrived dressed as a rhinestone cowboy.

Noun

1. an imitation diamond made from rock crystal or glass or paste