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All that glistens is not gold

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all that glistens is not gold

Things that have an outward appeal are often not as beautiful or valuable as they seem. I don't know if that necklace from the flea market will have the resale value you're anticipating. All that glistens is not gold, you know. A: "I want to grow up to be a movie star, then I won't have a care in the world!" B: "Just remember that all that glistens is not gold. The pressures of fame can be difficult."

See also: all, glisten, gold, not

All that glistens/glitters is not gold.

  (British, American & Australian) also All that glisters is not gold. (British literary)

something that you say to warn someone that sometimes people or things that appear attractive have no real value This film has an all-star cast, but all that glisters is not gold. It fails because of its weak story.

See also: all, glisten, gold, not