Swarovski is one of the most popular names in the world of Jewellery, especially Fashion Jewellery. Luxurious, precious and high-quality are some of the words associated with Swarovski Jewellery. So, what is so unique about this crystal that makes it so popular among the women who adore jewellery?
Here are a few things you didn’t know about Swarovski.
1. Invention
Swarovski was invented by Daniel Swarovski, a Czech-born Austrian glass cutter. In 1892, he invented and patented the electric cutting machine that facilitated the production of lead crystal glass Jewelry, which until then had to be cut by hand. He along with financier Armand Kosmann, and Franz Weis founded the Swarovski Company, originally known as A. Kosmann, D. Swarovski & Co. and shortened to KS & Co.
Swarovski's vision was to make "a diamond for everyone" by making crystals affordable. Swarovski is now a fifth-generation family-owned business with over 34,000 employees and a huge range of products like glass sculptures and miniature, jewellery and rhinestones, home decor, and chandeliers.
2. What is Swarovski Crystal
Swarovski crystals are actually not crystals. They are a man-made form of glass created with a patented process. The process and the exact raw materials used has remained a company secret. This highly specialized manufacturing process ensures the highest possible degree of precision which produces brilliant diamond-like crystals.
Crystal nerds will only be able to spot the difference on sight between a diamond and Swarovski crystal as Swarovski has a higher refraction index than true crystal, closer to a diamond.
3. Why is Swarovski more expensive than glass?
If Swarovski is more or less a glass, then why is it so expensive?
Well, this is because of the production process and precision required in creating a Swarovski crystal. Swarovski uses only the finest materials, superior production, cutting and polishing to fashion faceted lead glass that is known around the world for its brilliance and value. According to Swarovski, “Cutting hard materials such as crystal and gems, in such a way that they have a hundred identical facets in several directions, is a very complicated task; each direction of the reflected light must first be calculated by computer, then this has to be simulated in 3D, optimized and finally converted into control programs for complex machinery.”
4. What are Swarovski Elements?
Swarovski Elements is the brand name for precision cut loose Swarovski made from a combination of quartz, sand and minerals. They are used by the fashion, Jewelry, and accessories industries. The "Swarovski Crystals" brand officially replaced the "Swarovski Elements" name in September 2013 to concentrate all marketing activities into one main brand.
5. How to care for a Swarovski crystal jewellery?
Swarovski Crystal Jewellery is fine and delicate and should be treated the same as fine jewellery. Avoid exposing the crystals to water, chemicals, or harsh treatment from work or sports. Wipe off jewellery with a damp cloth and let it dry completely before storing. These are not daily worn jewellery and adequate care must be taken to protect these from direct contact with chemicals like perfume, hairspray etc. Always remove the Swarovski crystal jewellery before going swimming or bath. If possible keep the jewellery in its original box or an airtight box. Avoid exposing the crystals to water, chemicals, or harsh treatment from work or sports.
6. Times when Swarovski stole the show
- In 2018 Academy Awards, Swarovski decorated the stage with 45million crystals that made the mainstage gleam with sparkle. The whole display took over 3,000 hours to create and weighed approximately 15,000 pounds. It is one of Swarovski's most outlandish achievement to date.
- One of the most iconic moments of Swarovski is with in her historic sultry rendition of "Happy Birthday" for President John F. Kennedy at Madison Square Gardens. Monroe wore a sheer, flesh-coloured dress with 2,500 Swarovski crystals.
- Mercedes Benz SL600was covered with sparkling Swarovski crystals. A total of 300,000 crystals were given a diamond shape before being glued onto the car body. It is priced at $901,000. It was put on display at the 2016 Tokyo Auto Show before being put on sale.
Now that you know all about Swarovski jewellery, isn't it about time to pick out yours?
We, at Blingvine, offer a great range of Swarovski necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and pendants online at Blingvine Online Store. Buy Swarovski Jewellery online at www.blingvine.com.
