As you may have heard, Swarovski has made the decision to exit the global loose components division. For this reason we (and all of our competitors) are unable to order any new stock from Austria.
We’re in the process of replacing Swarovski with Preciosa as lines sell through. Preciosa is a leading global brand producing premium quality crystals in Czechia, previously known as the Czech Republic. Going forward, Preciosa will be the only true European made crystal product available to the beading and costuming communities.
Swarovski crystal beads and pendants are exquisite creations that have captivated the world with their unparalleled beauty and craftsmanship. Produced by Swarovski, a renowned Austrian company, these crystal components have become synonymous with elegance, glamour, and luxury. Read on and we will explore the remarkable qualities and artistic significance of Swarovski crystal beads and pendants.
Where are Swarovski Crystals made?
Renowned for their exceptional quality, sparkle, and precision, Swarovski crystal beads are produced by Swarovski, a prominent Austrian company with a long history of creating exquisite crystal products.
The largest Swarovski manufacturing facility is in Wattens, in the state of Tyrol in Austria. This cold alpine valley is home to Swarovski HQ, Swarovski Kristallwelten (Swarovski’s tourist attraction), and the biggest crystal manufacturing facility in the world.
How are Swarovski Crystals made?
Swarovski crystals are made through a meticulous process that combines precision cutting of high-quality crystal using specialised and proprietary techniques.
The process begins with high-quality raw materials. Swarovski uses a unique secret formula that includes a specialised ingredient, which contributes to the crystal’s exceptional clarity, brilliance, and refractive index.
The raw materials are melted at a high temperature and allowed to solidify and form large crystal blocks. Once the crystal blocks are formed, they undergo precision cutting using specialized machinery. The cutting process involves various stages, during which the crystal is shaped and faceted with intricate geometric designs. This precision cutting is what gives Swarovski crystals their signature sparkle and brilliance.
Swarovski offers a range of specialized coatings and effects that can be applied to the crystal surfaces. For example, the iconic Aurora Borealis (AB) effect involves a thin coating that creates a shimmering rainbow-like appearance. Other coatings, such as metallic or iridescent finishes, can add depth and texture to the crystals.
It’s worth noting that Swarovski crystals are known for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, and the exact details of their manufacturing process are closely guarded secrets. Swarovski has a long-standing reputation for producing crystals of unparalleled beauty and precision, making them a sought-after choice for jewellery designers and enthusiasts worldwide.
What are Swarovski crystals made of?
Swarovski Crystal is a brand of manufactured glass crystal. Consider the difference between antique crystal tableware used in a formal setting or by royalty, compared to a glass cup bought from a variety shop. Crystal is more precise, beautiful, ornate, refractive, while also being heavier and having a more opulent look and feel. Crystal will also maintain it’s beauty, status and maintain or increase in value, while a cheap glass cup likely won’t appreciate or even maintain value.
Many people ask are Swarovski Crystals real? Our Swarovski crystal beads, pendants, pearls and anything else bearing the name are absolutely 100% real and genuine Swarovski Crystal sourced directly from Austria.
Why are Swarovski Crystals so Expensive?
This is somewhat of a misconception. Swarovski crystal beads and pendants are exceptional value and not at all expensive. Consider the prices that Swarovski jewellery sells for, and then look at the prices of loose Swarovski beads and pendants. Beads can be under 20c a piece, while pendants start at a few dollars.
It’s possible to purchase Swarovski Crystal components at our fantastic value retail prices to make jewellery and sell the finished pieces for quite a decent profit. Many of our clients do exactly that! In fact beads N Crystals supplies not just to hobbyist customers, but also jewellers and professionals across Australia.
Here are some key aspects to know about Swarovski crystal beads:
- Superior Quality: Swarovski crystals are crafted using a combination of precise cutting techniques and high-quality materials. They are made from a proprietary formula that includes a high percentage of lead oxide, which enhances the crystal’s refractive index and gives it its signature brilliance and sparkle.
- Precise Cutting: Swarovski crystal beads are known for their precise and consistent cuts. The crystals are expertly faceted with intricate geometric designs, allowing them to reflect and refract light in captivating ways. This precision cutting results in beads that have exceptional clarity, brilliance, and shine.
- Extensive Range: Swarovski offers a vast range of crystal bead shapes, sizes, colours, and finishes. From classic round beads to bicones, cube, teardrop, and more, there are numerous options to choose from. The extensive variety allows beaders and jewellery makers to create intricate and unique designs, whether it’s for necklaces, bracelets, earrings, or other accessories.
- Versatility: Swarovski crystal beads are highly versatile and can be used in various types of jewellery and craft projects. They are popular among both professional designers and hobbyists due to their ability to add a touch of elegance and glamour to any creation. Swarovski crystals are often used in bead weaving, stringing, wirework, embroidery, and other beading techniques.
- Colour and Coating Options: Swarovski offers a wide range of colours, including vibrant hues, pastels, and opalescent shades. Additionally, they provide specialized coatings such as Aurora Borealis (AB), which creates a shimmering rainbow effect, and various metallic coatings that add depth and texture to the beads.
- Brand Recognition: Swarovski crystals have established a reputation for their exceptional quality and are highly regarded in the jewelry-making industry. Their distinctive logo, a swan symbol, is often etched on the crystal beads to signify their authenticity.
Why choose Swarovski Crystals?
One of the defining features of Swarovski crystal beads and pendants is their extraordinary sparkle and brilliance. Crafted with meticulous precision and utilizing a proprietary formula, these crystals possess a high refractive index that allows them to refract and reflect light in mesmerizing ways. Each bead and pendant is expertly cut with intricate facets, resulting in an unparalleled play of light that captivates the eye. Whether it’s the classic round beads, the geometric bicone shapes, or the elegant teardrop pendants, the Swarovski crystals exhibit a radiant shine that adds a touch of glamour to any piece of jewellery.
What are Swarovski Crystals Used For?
The versatility of Swarovski crystal beads and pendants is unparalleled. They can be incorporated into a wide range of jewellery designs, from necklaces and bracelets to earrings and brooches. Whether it’s for a formal occasion or everyday wear, Swarovski crystals add an element of sophistication and refinement to any ensemble. Their shimmering beauty effortlessly elevates both simple and intricate designs, making them a favorite choice among jewellery designers, artisans, and enthusiasts.
In our world of beading, Swarovski beads are predominantly used for jewellery making, but they can be used for whatever your imagination can conjure!
Using the Swarovski crystals available at Beads N Crystals, you’ll be able to make a wide range of brilliant formal or fun jewellery such as:
- Swarovski Crystal Bracelets – Consider round or bicone beads on either elastic or flex-rite beading wire to create a stunning bracelet at a very low cost. Use varying sizes of beads, contrasting colours or mix Swarovski with Miyuki Delica beads, freshwater pearls, gemstones or even wooden beads to completely different looks.
- Swarovski Crystal Drop Earrings – A few simple beads on a head-pin make for an elegant but eye-catching drop earring. Finish it off with Stainless Steel ear hooks for durability and compatibility with even the most sensitive ears.
- Swarovski Crystal Necklaces: Create exquisite necklaces using Swarovski crystals as the centrepiece. Combine different shapes, sizes, and colours to design a necklace that reflects your personal style and adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.
- Swarovski Crystal Earring Studs – A simple dot of crystal can make for a brilliant look. A single Swarovski flat-back crystal on a stainless steel stud is all it takes!
- Swarovski Crystal Heart Necklace – The simple heart pendant is a gorgeous look that is as timeless as Swarovski itself. Just one little heart on a simple bail or jump ring over a fine chain. Voila!
- Swarovski Crystal Gifts – From wall hangings to artwork, bookmark to scarf tassels, wind chine to a hair comb, Swarovski crystals can bring almost anything to life! Remember, sometimes simple is special! A very small number of Swarovski crystals can make a big impact.
- Swarovski Crystal Lanyards – Turn heads at work with a Swarovski crystal lanyard. All this takes is some round or bicone beads on Flex-Rite connected at both ends toa single keychain-style split-ring.
Swarovski crystals for nails
Swarovski crystals are perfect for nails and nail art. Have a look at the brilliant Crystal Pixie packs and also the glue-on flat-back crystals in smaller sizes. They all work perfectly on nails and can be applied using clear nail polish as a glue.
Where to buy Swarovski Crystal Beads
The extensive range of Swarovski crystal beads and pendants is another testament to their artistic significance. From a myriad of shapes, sizes, and colours to specialized coatings and effects, Swarovski offers a vast selection that allows designers and jewellery makers to unleash their creativity. The beads come in various shapes such as rounds, bicones, cubes, and more, while the pendants offer a wide range of captivating designs. Additionally, Swarovski crystals are available in a rich array of colours, from vibrant and intense hues to soft pastels and opalescent shades. The inclusion of specialized coatings, such as the iconic Aurora Borealis (AB) effect or metallic finishes, further expands the design possibilities, enabling the creation of unique and eye-catching jewellery pieces.
Beads N Crystals are your Swarovski Australia Online Store for beads, crystals, jewellery parts and more.
If you’re looking to buy Swarovski crystals, you’re in the right place! Beads N Crystals has the best range of Swarovski beads for sale as well as Swarovski pendants, pearls, chandelier components and more.
You’ll find our full collection of Swarovski crystals for sale online in Australia at Beads N Crystals. Whether you’re in Western Australia, Perth or Melbourne, we offer free postage Australia-wide orders over the value advertised above. Purchase small or bulk quantities while stock lasts.
