Meaning: A proverb: All that appears expensive and genuine isn't so.
Example: That minted coin looks like a good deal, but all that glitters is not gold.
Origins: In various forms dates before the 12th century, perhaps even before Aesop, but in modern usage dates back to Shakespeare’s The Merchants of Venice.

Meaning, origins, and example. More examples.


Rewrites: all that sparkles is not diamonds all that shines is not silver gold and brass glitter alike much glitter is as good as the gutter fool's gold fools many fools

Discussion: I tried to stay true to the precious metals and gems roots of the saying, but can you imagine a recasting of this proverb in terms of flashy brands and gadgets?