Georg Friedrich Strass

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Georg Friedrich Strass , French Georges Frédéric Stras or Strass (born May 29, 1701 in Wolfisheim near Strasbourg , † December 22, 1773 ) was an Alsatian goldsmith . He dealt with imitation gemstones throughout his life . Imitation gemstones made of glass are called rhinestones after him .

biography

By adding bismuth and thallium , he improved the light refraction of the imitations, and by adding metal salts their color. The artificial gemstones were so deceptively similar in appearance to the original that the term “Simili” was introduced. By gluing a metal foil behind him, he considerably increased the luminosity of his gemstones. This metal foil was later replaced by a vapor-deposited mirror layer.

GF Strass opened his own business in 1730 and now dedicated himself to the production of diamond imitations. In the course of his great success, he acquired the title of "King's Jeweler" in 1734.

He became a partner in Madame Prévot's jewelry business. During this time he continued to develop the imitation gemstones, and at that time at the court of Louis XV. When there was a great need for jewelry in France, its stones were in great demand. He was able to retire at the age of 52, having become rich through his business.