Flat back crystals, rhinestones, nail gems or simply bling: whatever you call them, the many small details that categorise a crystal can be confusing when you are not sure what the descriptions mean. This guide explains the main types of crystal and what each is for, so you can shop with confidence. We cover flatbacks, sew-on stones, pendants, beads, pearls, chatons and fancy stones.
Preciosa Crystals
Preciosa Crystals have been crafting crystals and fine jewellery stones for the past five centuries in the Bohemian Crystal Valley region, bringing centuries of Bohemian glassmaking heritage to every stone. Their crystals are the product of a cut-glass manufacturing process and should not be referred to as diamonds, a common mistake, as diamonds are a natural mineral whereas cut-glass crystals are made from sand. Many crystals are coloured to mimic organic gemstones, which is why you will find sapphire-coloured crystals but no real sapphires, and yellow crystals named Citrine.
Extensive Range of Shapes, Sizes & Colours
The next stage is to know what purpose you want for your laser-cut glass crystals. Let us start with the classic flatback crystal, often also called a rhinestone; this style has one side that is completely flat, designed for sticking to a smooth surface. You find these on drinks tumblers, bedazzled handbags and, in ultra fabulous circumstances, covering the surface of a sports car. Browse the full range of flatback crystals to get started.
Sew-on Crystals
The flat back crystal is usually glued onto its intended surface, however you can get sew-on stones that also have a flat back but have holes in them. It is worth paying attention to how many holes there are in the stone; on a wholesale pack this is usually referred to as 1H, meaning one hole, and 2H, meaning two holes. If a crystal is called Lochrose, this means the hole is cut directly through the centre, giving it an appearance similar to a sequin. Other crystals have holes on the edge of the stone, giving a slightly different look to the Lochrose.
Pendants, Beads & Pearls
There are of course many types of cut-glass crystal that do not have a flat back. Popular examples are Pendants, which are typically double-sided with a hole at the top to accommodate a bail that attaches them to a necklace. Another is Beads, which have a thread hole running from top to bottom of the cut-glass bead, making this type perfect for embellishing clothing or creating jewellery, especially as their faceted surface works wonders reflecting the light. You can even purchase crystal pearls, known as Nacre Pearls, made from glass and coated to give that wonderful pearl effect.
Chatons
There is also the pointed-back chaton, also known as a round stone. From the front these look like normal flatback crystals because the top is cut the same way, however the back comes to a central point, making it resemble the Superman logo. These are used in jewellery making and are set into metal casings.
Fancy Stones
Beyond that you have the world of fancy stones, which come in a near endless variety of shapes with faceted backs. These different cuts all have names; for example there is an Emerald Cut fancy stone, which can also come in the colour emerald.
FAQs
What are Preciosa crystals?
Preciosa crystals are premium cut-glass crystals manufactured in the Bohemian Crystal Valley region of the Czech Republic, using the patented MAXIMA cut. They feature precision faceting that delivers exceptional brilliance and a refractive index that mimics real gemstones. Preciosa is an Authorised Partner brand at Bluestreak, positioned as a premium tier at a more accessible price point than Austrian-made crystals.
What is the MAXIMA cut used by Preciosa?
MAXIMA is Preciosa's patented crystal cut featuring a precise faceting pattern designed to maximise light return and produce vivid brilliance. The MAXIMA cut is the premium quality tier across the Preciosa range, applied to flatback crystals, sew-on stones, chatons and beads. It positions Preciosa as a premium brand rather than a generic Czech crystal alternative, comparable in brilliance to Austrian-made crystals.
What types of Preciosa crystals are available?
Preciosa crystals are available in seven main types: 1) Flatback crystals (hotfix and non-hotfix for embellishment), 2) Sew-on stones (1-hole and 2-hole for stitching to fabric), 3) Pendants (top-drilled for necklaces), 4) Beads (centre-drilled for stringing), 5) Nacre pearls (crystal-cored synthetic pearls), 6) Chatons (pointed-back for metal settings), 7) Fancy stones (shaped stones for jewellery making).
Are Preciosa crystals as good as Swarovski?
Preciosa crystals are premium quality with the patented MAXIMA cut, bringing centuries of Bohemian glassmaking heritage. They are not identical to Swarovski (different cut, different origin, different price point), but they deliver outstanding brilliance and a broader colour range at a more accessible price. For most embellishment, jewellery making and craft applications, the visual difference is minimal.
Where are Preciosa crystals made?
Preciosa crystals are made in the Bohemian Crystal Valley region of the Czech Republic — a historic glassmaking heartland with centuries of crystal-cutting heritage. The Preciosa company has been producing crystals there for over five centuries. The geographic origin matters because Czech glassmaking traditions, raw materials and craftsmanship are distinctive from Austrian Swarovski production methods.
What is the difference between a chaton and a flatback crystal?
Chatons have a pointed-back shape designed to be set into metal jewellery settings (the back comes to a central point like the Superman logo). Flatback crystals have a smooth flat reverse for gluing or hotfix application to flat surfaces. Both have similar faceted fronts. Use chatons for jewellery setting; use flatbacks for embellishment, nail art and surface application.
What is a Lochrose sew-on crystal?
A Lochrose sew-on crystal is a Preciosa sew-on stone with a single hole drilled through the centre, similar in appearance to a sequin. The thread passes through the centre of the crystal from front to back. Lochrose stones are stitched flat to fabric and are widely used in dance costumes, embellishment and embroidery work. Other sew-on stones have holes on the edge for a different attachment look.
