What Is Swarovski Crystal and Where Do They Come From?
I’m sure you’ve heard of Swarovski crystals.
If you’ve never heard of it, I’m sure you’ve at least seen the little swan symbol that embodies this long-standing brand of crystals.
But what is the story behind Swarovski crystals?
Let’s take a closer look today.
What Are Swarovski Crystals?
WHAT IS SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS MADE OF?
The content ratio of normal crystal glass is approximately 24% of lead oxide.
Compared to normal crystal glass, Swarovski crystals contain at least 32% more lead oxide.
This allows it to appear rainbow in colour at some viewing angles due to the refraction of light.
WHERE DOES SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS COME FROM?
Swarovski was founded by Daniel Swarovski in the late 1800s in Austria.
The Swarovski group is best known for its accomplishments in the fashion industry centred on the manufacturing and development of crystals.
Today, there are Swarovski headquarters located in over 170 countries with 2,800 retail stores.
It employs over 27,000 people with annual sales of 2.6 billion
Swarovski’s headquarters are located in 170 countries with 2,800 stores, more than 27,000 employees, and sales of USD$4.1 billion (in 2018).
With such a wide reach in international markets, Swarovski is undeniably one of Austria’s leading crystal glass brands.
HOW ARE SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS USED FOR JEWELRY?
All crystal glass manufactured by Swarovski falls into the category of rhinestones.
Rhinestones have a flat bottom surface that has been processed by faceting and is covered with a thin metal film.
Swarovski calls this flat backs.
There are 14 cut surfaces, and the bottom surface is platinum-processed, and it has an exceptionally beautiful glow.
Flat backs are divided into hot fixes and non-hot fixes.
The difference between the two is that the bottom of the hot fix has an adhesive so that it can be attached to cloth by applying heat with an iron.
Let’s take a look at a few types of Swarovski crystals that are used in jewelry.
RHINESTONE
Rhinestones are small flat crystal elements that are used to embellish fashion apparel.
Rhinestones come in a variety of different shapes.
SEWING
These Swarovski elements come with holes for sewing.
It is ideal for decorations and dressmaking.
FANCY STONES
Fancy stones consist of Swarovski elements that are three-dimensional and shaped like a jewel.
They are ideal as an accessory part.
Who is Swarovski?
The company Swarovski was founded in 1895 by the founder Daniel Swarovski in Austria as a crystal glass manufacturing company.
An interesting fact is that Swarovski actually handled the chandelier parts for the Palace of Versailles and the Opera Theatre, making it one of Austria’s leading crystal glass brands.
A DIAMOND FOR EVERYONE
In 1891, Daniel Swarovski had a vision to create “a diamond for everyone”.
This was the foundation of his legacy.
He reached a large audience spanning in different industries including haute couture, retail, technology, science, etc.
How Are Swarovski Crystals Made?
Why are Swarovski crystals so sparkling and beautiful?
PRODUCTION PROCESS
It is not normal glass, but actually crystal glass.
Swarovski uses crystal glass with 32% lead oxide added to ordinary glass to increase its transparency and consequently its refraction index.
GLORIOUS GEOMETRY
The elements are calculated precisely and cut accordingly so that it will shine at its brightest.
Since the first machine cut was developed in 1892, the technology has been constantly developing.
These two key points combined together creates a beautiful and sparkling Swarovski crystal.
What is Swarovski Elements and Swarovski Crystals?
Swarovski rhinestones were originally called “Swarovski”
In 2010, Swarovski unified their product brand name to “Swarovski Elements”
In 2014, the name was once again changed to “Swarovski Crystals” to further strengthen the brand.
Conclusion
Swarovski has gained international recognition for its high-quality and beautiful crystals.
Shine and brilliance are such important characteristics for gemstones.
What are your thoughts on Swarovski crystals?
