[a. G. strass, F. stras (Dict. Acad., 1762); said to be from the name of the inventor, Josef Strasser.] A vitreous composition used as a basis in the manufacture of artificial stones: = PASTE sb.1 5.
1820. Ann. Reg., *453/1. What is technically called ‘Strass,’ and which forms the basis and body of all artificial stones.
1844. E. A. Parnell’s Appl. Chem., II. 44. The variety of glass known by the name of Strass [foot-n. So called from the name of its German inventor], which is used as a general colourless basis for factitious gems, on account of its remarkable lustre.
1876. ‘Ouida,’ In Winter City, vi. She threw them all into the shade as a rose diamond throws stars of strass.
attrib. 1908. Ladies’ Field, 4 April, 197/1. Strass ornaments imitating peacock’s feathers.
