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Swarovski is one of the most popular jewelry brands, popular in almost every corner of the globe. The company is famous for its amazing crystals in the form of finished jewelry, jewelry components, beads and figurines.
But is it worth the price and the hype surrounding it?
In this article, we’ve got all the information you need about Swarovski jewelry to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. Let’s take a look.
What is Swarovski Jewelry?
Swarovski jewelry is a world-famous jewelry brand launched in 1895 by Daniel Swarovski, an Austrian glass producer. The company focuses on three main areas:
- The Swarovski Crystal Business – which produces crystal jewelry, accessories and glass.
- Swarovski Optik – which manufactures optical instruments like binoculars, telescopes and telescopic sights (or scopes) for rifles.
- Tyrolit – a supplier of machines and tools as well as a manufacturer of dressing, sawing, grinding and drilling tools.
Swarovski began as a simple family business but over time has grown to become of the most popular jewelry brands and suppliers in the world. Swarovski Crystals remains the major part of the business, with their products in over 3,000 stores in 170 countries.
Today, the company is still family-owned and is run by the fifth generation of Swarovski’s family members.
What is the Quality of Swarovski Jewelry?
Swarovski jewelry is classy, decorative, and unique, guaranteed to stand out. They’re highly popular among celebrities and have been featured in many films, including James Cameron’s blockbuster Titanic. The famous ‘Heart of the Ocean’ necklace seen in the film was made of Swarovski crystals.
Swarovski products come in a wide range of prices as well as quality. The brand is highly popular since it offers an endless variety of designs, and there’s always something for everyone.
In general, Swarovski focuses on unique designs, high quality, and durability at a reasonable price.
What Materials Do Swarovski Use for Their Jewelry?
Swarovski Crystals are manufactured from a variety of materials, including sand, quartz, lead, and minerals, which is why their durability and sparkle excel in comparison to most natural crystals.
In the past, the company’s crystals were composed of approximately 32% of lead, which increased the durability of the piece and maximized its refraction. However, because Swarovski crystals now contain less than .009% of lead, they’re considered to be lead-free and safe to use.
Apart from this, they use quality metals which are typically white- or gold-tone, made from rhodium plating or gold plating. In some cases, Swarovski uses palladium tone-plating.
What Colors Do Swarovski Crystals Come In?
The colors Topaz, Emerald and Ruby make up the core of Swarovski crystal assortments. The jewelry is available in a rich palette that consists of more than 70 different colors, which allows for numerous combinations.
The colors of the crystals remain the same regardless of size and cut, offering ideal color saturation from all angles.
Swarovski crystal colors are usually made through chemical coatings that are highly durable and can last for a lifetime if taken good care of. They hardly fade even when exposed to saltwater, UV, machine washing, sweat, plating, or even soldering. However, regular and prolonged exposure may have some effects on the crystal colors.
Does Swarovski Jewelry Tarnish?
While Swarovski jewelry is known for its durability, regular wear and prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals and direct sunlight can cause tarnishing. Pieces that are worn daily tend to tarnish much faster than those worn only on special occasions.
However, if properly cared for, your Swarovski jewelry can last as long as diamonds. You’ll need to maintain your jewelry by cleaning it frequently and carefully.
Swarovski crystals differ from natural crystals because of their chemical coating. This coating can tarnish if exposed to harsh chemicals found in perfumes, certain detergents, suntan lotions, and cosmetics. Chemicals like chlorine can also cause the jewelry to tarnish, but this is unlikely unless you swim with your jewelry on.
Note that because all the metal is plated, over time, the plating can flake off or peel. When this happens, the base metal beneath will start showing through. Such base metals usually tarnish and discolor over time.
How Do You Care for Swarovski Jewelry?
In order to keep your Swarovski jewelry in great condition, make sure to keep it away from such chemicals and avoid exposing it to sunlight for long periods of time.
Remove your jewelry before you go swimming or before applying cosmetics or other products such as hairspray, perfume, lotion, or soap since this can damage the metal and discolor it. While the crystals themselves won’t discolor easily, they can lose their brilliance, so the less exposure the better.
Clean your Swarovski jewelry often using lukewarm water. It’s not necessary to add soap, but if you do choose to use it, make sure it’s mild enough so that it won’t harm the jewelry.
Dry the piece well and store it in its original packaging or a pouch. If you don’t have either of those, you can always wrap it up in a soft cloth and place it somewhere safe from hard or sharp objects that could cause damage.
Swarovski Crystals or Swarovski Zirconia?
If you’ve chosen Swarovski, you might have trouble deciding whether to opt for their zirconia stones or their classic crystals.
While both are great choices, they’re quite different from each other. Here’s a quick look at the major differences between the crystals and the zirconia stones.
Swarovski zirconia is harder.
Unlike the crystals, Swarovski zirconia stones are much harder with a rating of 8/10 on the Mohs scale. The crystals, on the other hand, have a rating between 6 and 7 which means that they’re much softer and can get scratched easily. If they’re not cared for properly, the crystals can also become cloudy over time.
Swarovski zirconia stones are among the finest diamond imitations.
Swarovski zirconia is known to be one of the most popular diamond imitations on the market today because of their similar characteristics.
Like diamonds, zirconia is hard, heat resistant, and refracts light. These stones are almost always set in silver or gold and are used extensively for bridge jewelry, eyewear, electronics, and watches.
The Swarovski Pure Brilliant Cut has been equated with some of the most beautiful diamond cuts available on the market.
Unlike zirconia, Swarovski crystals are available in many different cuts. They’re also softer and less refractive than Swarovski zirconia which is why they’re popularly used for fashion and costume jewelry.
The refraction index of zirconia is higher than crystals.
Swarovski zirconia has a much higher refraction index than Swarovski crystals (about 33% higher). While the crystals have an impressive sparkle and brilliance, they’re not quite on the same level as the zirconia.
Zirconia is more expensive than crystals.
Because of its characteristics, zirconia is much more expensive than Swarovski crystals. However, since the stone is significantly cheaper than diamonds but matches them in quality, it’s considered well worth the price.
How Can You Tell the Difference Between Genuine and Fake Swarovski Jewelry?
If you’re on the hunt for Swarovski crystal jewelry, it’s crucial to be aware of the abundance of counterfeit products out there. You can avoid being duped by following these guidelines:
1. Buy from trusted sources.
Always make purchases from reputable dealers, trustworthy online platforms or directly from Swarovski stores to ensure authenticity.
2. Search for the laser logo.
Authentic Swarovski items come with the brand’s distinctive trapezoid-shaped logo laser-engraved on them. From 1989 onwards, the Swan logo has also been used, making them easy to recognize.
It’s created using laser technology to engrave the brand’s iconic swan logo onto the crystal, ensuring precision and clarity. The laser logo guarantees the product’s authenticity and adds a touch of elegance.
Swarovski’s commitment to craftsmanship and quality is exemplified through this precise and intricate logo, making it a symbol of luxury and sophistication in their crystal creations.
3. Understand logo exceptions.
Swarovski’s laser logo exceptions refer to specific instances where the traditional laser-engraved swan logo may not appear on their crystal products.
These exceptions are usually reserved for limited edition or specialized items, where the standard logo may not be suitable due to design constraints or artistic reasons.
Instead, alternative branding methods, such as special engravings or unique packaging, may be employed to maintain product authenticity while offering a more exclusive touch to certain Swarovski creations.
4. Check tags or stickers.
If the logo is not present, look for a Swarovski seal on the item’s tag or sticker. This seal should contain a 16-digit code that can be verified on the Swarovski website.
5. Inspect for imperfections.
Genuine Swarovski crystals are flawless. If you spot any bubbles, it’s likely a counterfeit. Additionally, real Swarovski crystals shine brilliantly, while imitations may appear dull.
6. Expect a certificate of authenticity.
Real Swarovski jewelry should come with a certificate of authenticity and official branded packaging.
7. Look for uniform facets.
Uniform facets in Swarovski jewelry mean consistent and precise cuts on each crystal for maximum brilliance.
The facets don’t necessarily need to point upwards; they’re arranged strategically to optimize light reflection, creating a stunning sparkle from any angle.
8. Check for consistency in size and cut.
In Swarovski pieces, every crystal must be identical in size and cut to achieve consistent brilliance and sparkle.
This uniformity ensures that light refraction is consistent, creating a stunning display of radiance. Meticulous attention to detail in crafting each crystal guarantees a high standard of quality and visual appeal.
9. Match color family.
Crystals within the same color family must match exactly in color. This precise color consistency is achieved through advanced manufacturing techniques, ensuring that each crystal reflects the same hue and intensity.
The harmonious color alignment adds to the overall elegance and sophistication of the jewelry design.
10. Examine the surface and compare the shine.
Genuine Swarovski crystals are carefully crafted to be free from surface scratches and oily sheen. Their flawless finish is a result of strict quality control measures during manufacturing.
The absence of imperfections ensures that the crystals exhibit unparalleled clarity, brilliance, and a premium appearance, signifying authenticity and luxury.
Authentic Swarovski crystals should have a shine that can be compared to that of a diamond.
Is Swarovski Jewelry Valuable?
The value of Swarovski crystal items doesn’t solely rely on their possession but is also dependent on several critical factors. To be considered of significant market value, a Swarovski crystal needs to fulfill the following conditions:
1. Limited Availability
The rule of thumb in the collector’s world is simple: the rarer an item, the higher its value. Swarovski is renowned for their consistent innovation and the introduction of novel designs, colors, and cuts in their collections.
This results in an ever-changing variety of pieces for collectors. Consequently, some designs, particularly limited editions or retired collections, are highly sought after due to their increasing rarity.
Swarovski occasionally releases products exclusive to certain countries, which enhances their potential resale value.
2. Condition
A Swarovski crystal’s condition substantially affects its worth. A crystal that’s in mint condition—free from chips, scratches, or missing elements—will undeniably command a higher price.
Collectors prioritize pieces that have been meticulously maintained, as these can be exhibited and appreciated in their full, radiant glory.
3. Box and Packaging
The original packaging of a Swarovski crystal significantly contributes to its value. An item that comes in its original box, along with any supplementary documents, not only safeguards the piece from damage but also establishes a sense of authenticity.
4. Certificate
Having a certificate plays a crucial role in a Swarovski crystal’s valuation. This certificate validates the item’s authenticity, offering assurance to collectors about the genuineness and premium quality of their investment.
Such documentation can be advantageous for reselling purposes, providing confidence to prospective buyers about the authenticity of the Swarovski product.
5. The Swarovski Logo
Finally, the presence of the Swarovski logo on a crystal piece is an essential aspect that can’t be neglected when appraising its value.
Over the years, the Swarovski logo has seen several modifications and is often discreetly etched or engraved onto their crystal pieces.
This logo is a mark of the crystal’s authenticity and a testament to Swarovski’s devotion to superior craftsmanship, creativity, and artistic design.
Why is the Swarovski Brand So Popular?
Swarovski is an extremely famous brand because they offer high quality gemstones and crystals, which are excellent at imitating natural gemstones and diamonds. The brand offers their products at attractive prices. Swarovski’s innovative culture has shaped the brand’s image and tied itself to creativity and luxury.
The World’s Most Expensive Swarovski Items
Swarovski crystals are renowned for their brilliant sparkle and exquisite designs, which have made them an integral part of several iconic pieces of fashion and pop culture.
Some of these Swarovski items have even reached an astounding market value, becoming some of the most expensive Swarovski pieces in the world.
Here are three famous Swarovski items that have significantly increased their worth due to their historical and cultural significance:
1. Michael Jackson’s Swarovski Crystal Glove
A distinctive part of Michael Jackson’s legendary stage ensemble was his iconic Swarovski crystal glove. This single, dazzling white glove, studded with thousands of Swarovski crystals, became an emblem of the King of Pop’s unique style.
When it was put up for auction in 2009, this famous glove fetched an impressive $420,000, attesting to the value of its cultural significance.
2. Marilyn Monroe’s “Happy Birthday Mr. President” Dress
Marilyn Monroe’s renowned “Happy Birthday Mr. President” dress, another renowned Swarovski item, was designed by Jean Louis and adorned with over 2,500 meticulously hand-sewn Swarovski crystals.
Worn by Monroe during her seductive performance for President John F. Kennedy in 1962, this dress stands as a symbol of Monroe’s timeless glamour.
It was auctioned in 2016 for a staggering $4.8 million, marking it as one of the most expensive dresses ever sold.
3. Rihanna’s Swarovski Crystal Dress
Rihanna made a stunning appearance at the 2014 CFDA Fashion Awards in a dress that shone with more than 230,000 Swarovski crystals.
This sheer and sparkling dress, designed by Adam Selman, was paired with a matching head cap and gloves, also encrusted with Swarovski crystals.
Rihanna’s daring fashion choice not only established her as a trendsetter but also skyrocketed the dress’s value. Although the exact sale price at auction isn’t publicly available, the dress attracted immense attention for its extraordinary design and aesthetic appeal.
4. Swarovski-Studded Toilet
This may not be what you’d typically expect, but the most expensive item that’s been made using Swarovski crystals is a toilet.
This luxury bathroom fixture is adorned with 72,000 Swarovski crystals and was sold for around $128,000.
5. The $10,000 Nintendo Wii
The gaming console was encrusted with 20,000 Swarovski crystals and was valued at around $10,000.
6. The Million Dollar Wedding Dress
This dress was designed by Mauro Adami in 2008 and sewn with 40 meters of silk fabric and adorned with Swarovski crystals. It was worth around $1 million.
7. Disney Cinderella’s Slipper
This iconic slipper, designed by Stuart Weitzman, was made from Italian leather and adorned with 565 Kwiat diamonds and Swarovski crystals. It was reportedly worth around $2 million.
8. The Ruby Stilettos
Created by Stuart Weitzman, these shoes were adorned with 642 round and oval rubies (more than 120 carats in total), set in platinum and laid out on red satin.
The shoes were also adorned with Swarovski crystals and were reportedly worth around $1.6 million.
FAQs About Swarovski
1. Is Swarovski a luxury brand?
Swarovski is not considered a luxury jewelry brand since no gold, platinum or silver is used in the making of their jewelry. In fact, all Swarovski stones are glass.
2. Can you wear Swarovski in the shower?
Wearing your Swarovski piece in the shower can cause unnecessary wear and tear so it’s best to remove it before you do so. While Swarovski jewelry is highly durable, it won’t remain in good condition for too long if you don’t take proper care of it.
3. Is Pandora better than Swarovski?
Pandora is a jewelry brand that offers a much larger variety of jewelry styles than Swarovski. However, Swarovski is more focused on their own unique, signature jewelry. Swarovski’s prices are also significantly higher because of their brand and quality. If you’re looking for a wider variety of designs, Pandora would be your first choice but if you have the specific Swarovski style in mind, their stores will provide you with just that.
4. Is Swarovski a good engagement ring?
Swarovski Zirconia is a great choice for an engagement ring since it lasts longer than crystals. However, note that it it doesn’t have the same prestige and value that a diamond or gemstone ring will have.
5. Why is Swarovski jewelry so expensive?
Swarovski is more expensive than other glass jewelry products because of the complicated, patented production process and techniques used to create their crystals. For the crystals to be considered high quality, they need to have about a hundred identical facets in many direction and Swarovski achieves this with each and every crystal they make.
Wrapping Up
Swarovski jewelry stands as a testament to the pursuit of perfection and brilliance. From their precisely cut crystals to the meticulous attention to detail, each piece exudes elegance and luxury.
With a rich heritage of craftsmanship, Swarovski continues to captivate with its timeless designs, offering a dazzling experience for every jewelry enthusiast.
