As fall approaches, a flurry of crystals, gems and jewels is a seasonally appropriate and profit-boosting way to elevate your client’s manicure. The addition of eye-catching embellishments can be tricky to execute successfully, though — it requires expert technique, quality product and top-notch time management skills. To ensure stones stay in place until their next appointment, you need a variety of adhesives that are compatible with your embellishment type and size (think: resin, gem gel and good-old hard gel). To help nail technicians master the art of the bling, we asked five bling experts to create luxe nail looks using a flurry of crystals, pearls and gems.
This dark beauty leans into the gothcore aesthetic, but is still a feast for the eyes thanks to a Jellied glitter base and ebony rhinestones. Created by Jenny Bui, a nail artist best known for her over-the-top designs and the longtime technician of rapper Cardi B, this manicure is truly a work of art.
A soft pink base and optic white tip are a classic French manicure look that never goes out of style, but the addition of one rhinestone to the base of each nail makes this design feel extra special. Black File Nails artist Diana Nguyen adhered the rhinestones with gem gel for flexibility in placement and clear structure gel to properly encapsulate them for a flat finish. This is a perfect option for natural-nail clients who want to add a hint of glamor.