Nail charms and rhinestones are small 3D decorations set into gel on a finished nail: stones for sparkle, metal and crystal charms for shapes, and pearls, beads and chains for texture. M1 Nail & Beauty Supply stocks loose stones in bags and jars, mixed 6-grid boxes and character charms, mostly from MNBS, plus pieces from YHH and Bio Seaweed.
Types of nail decorations
| Type | Best for | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Rhinestones | Sparkle accents, French lines and full-coverage bling. | DZ Mini Rhinestone, 50 per bag, Mini Rhinestone, 50 per jar, Assorted Small Diamond Rhinestone, Nail Rhinestone H111-78, 6 Grids Box Rhinestone H82 Mixed, Nail Rhinestone DZ777-12 |
| Charms and bows | One statement piece on an accent nail. | Cross Heart Nail Charms, Metal Bow Tie Charms, 5 pcs, Mini Bow Tie Charm H18, Crystal Bow Tie Charms, 5 pcs, Heart Shape Charms, 3 pcs, Sanrio Head Nail Charm, 2 pcs |
| Beads, pearls and chains | Texture, outlines and minimalist accents. | Nail Steel Beads, White Pearl Nail Beads, 1000 pcs, 6 Grids Mini Bead Ball, Semicircle Nail Bead Ball 1 g, Ins Punk Nail Chain |
How to choose charms and rhinestones
- Start with a mixed box. A 6-grid box gives several sizes and shapes in one case; refill the sizes you use most with single bags or jars.
- Size the piece to the nail. Small stones and beads suit short nails and borders; large charms need a longer nail and a solid base of gel under them.
- Make your own shapes. For a shape you use a lot, a silicone charm mould lets you cast 3D charms from thick gel in any colour.
Related: Adhesive gel, Nail art tools, Stamping plates & moulds, 3D / sculpture gel, All nail art
Charms and rhinestones FAQ
How do I stop nail charms from snagging hair and clothes?
Set the charm in a bead of gel that covers its base, then brush clear gel or top coat around the edges so there is no lip to catch, and cure fully. Keep larger charms towards the centre of the nail, away from the free edge and the sidewalls.
Should I put top coat over rhinestones?
Seal around the stones, not over their faces. Top coat over the top of a stone dulls its sparkle, while a thin line of gel or top coat around the base locks it in. Pearls and metal beads can be capped lightly if you want a smoother surface.
How should I store loose rhinestones and beads?
Keep them sorted by size and colour in grid boxes or jars with tight lids, away from filing dust. Pour a few onto a palette for each client instead of working from the bag, and do not put back pieces that have touched gel.
Order online for in-store pickup at our Markham, Ontario store, usually ready in 2 to 4 hours, or have your order shipped anywhere in Canada.