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Giftshop1234 Crystal Buyer Guide: Getting To Know Swarovski Crystals

Buying collectible crystals from Swarovski can be an enjoyable experience, but before you do, educate yourself on the types of Swarovski crystals, pieces for beginners, buying tips, and care. Here you will find a wealth of information about Swarovski crystals, including advice for beginning collectors and jewelry makers.

How to Buy Genuine Swarovski Crystals

When it comes to buying Swarovski crystals, go for the genuine item rather than a cheap imitation. You can tell the difference between the two in a number of ways. A genuine Swarovski crystal will be marked with a manufacturer’s logo: a square (’76-88), sCs/SCS (87′-present), an edelweiss flower (before ’89), or a swan (’89-present). If your crystal does not have this mark, chances are it is not the genuine article. In addition, these crystals are heavy in comparison to similar sized imitations, and weight differences can often be determined by first picking up one, then the other. All new Swarovski crystals come with a certificate of authenticity. If lost, it cannot be replaced. Swarovski crystal jewelry is made with the highest quality gems and plated nickel. Finally, genuine crystals are not cheap, but less expensive than diamonds. In other words, you will not find true Swarovski crystals in the beads department of your local department store, and those found at crafts stores will be small and rather expensive.

Types of Swarovski Crystal

The Swarovski line of genuine crystals includes a wide range of items, including home decor, chandeliers, crystal miniatures and sculptures, figurines, couture, jewelry and jewelry making components, and much more. Swarovski also creates delicate beads which are highly desired by jewelry designers worldwide.

Perhaps the most popular type of Swarovski crystal is the rhinestone. Swarovski has the ability to bring out a massive quantity of shine and luster out of tiny rhinestones, creating a dazzling effect in a small space. These rhinestones can be added to virtually any type of clothing, giving the appearance of brilliant diamonds.

Best Beginner Swarovski Crystals

For the beginner jewelry maker, adding a few high quality Swarovski crystal beads to any project can turn an average-looking accessory into an eye-catching one. Become familiar with the methods of jewelry making before purchasing your first set of crystals. Practice making a few items with inexpensive imitation crystals, which are usually made of plastic. In this way, costly mistakes can be avoided. Once you have the feel of jewelry making, you will be ready to purchase a few nice Swarovski crystals.

If you plan to start a Swarovski crystal collection, choose an item that is practical for your lifestyle. An elegant crystal vase would not be appropriate in a home with 5 small children, two dogs, and a messy husband. Likewise, you would not want to purchase a crystal necklace if you do not wear jewelry. In addition, you should not allow cost to be the final determining factor. The highest price item might look beautiful, but it may not suit your needs or home. Likewise, the cheapest item, if not purchased for a practical purpose, may sit in a forgotten corner of your dresser drawers. Buy the item because it will be used, enjoyed, admired, and respected as your first piece of genuine Swarovski crystal.

Caring for your Swarovski Crystal

Perhaps the worst (and most common) mistake that Swarovski crystal owners make is using the wrong cleaning agent or cleaning cloth on their prized collection. Commercial cleaning solutions should never, ever be used on fine crystal. Likewise, most cleaning cloths are made of fibrous materials which can easily ruin the perfect crystal surface.

For expensive or home decor items, it is recommended to use a Swarovski crystal polishing/cleaning cloth (available through licensed dealers). These cloths are designed to gently, but thoroughly, clean the crystal without causing any minute scratches or residue. The company also offers smaller cleaning kits for delicate items, such as jewelry or crystal beads.

For small, less expensive items, crystal collectors can use a common household product safely and effectively: baby wipes! Crystal necklaces can be laid, one bead at a time, across a baby wipe. Then, gently roll the crystal with your fingers inside the wipe, removing residue from all sides. Repeat until all beads are clean.

You can also use a mild cleaning solution of 1 tbsp. rubbing alcohol, 3/4 c. water, and 1/2 tbsp. dawn dish soap. Place this mixture into a container with a tightly sealed lid. Vigorously shake the container to mix the solution. Place your crystal jewelry inside and seal the lid. Allow it to sit in the solution for 1 minute, gently swirl the container for 30 seconds, and then allow it to sit once again for 30 more seconds. Remove the items promptly, as keeping them in the solution any longer might damage the crystals. Rinse them under lukewarm running water, and then dry with a soft cloth.

About the Author

Ely Teitelbaum is the owner of Giftshop1234, A family owned Company that has been in the Crystal and Collectibles business for close to 30 years and offers you those years of expertise. Visit www.giftshop1234.com for Swarovski Crystal Collectibles and products by brands such as Waterford, Madame Alexander and more

Apply Swarovski Crystal Flat Backs (Non Hot-Fix)

bcp-drums”Crystal Groove”Swarovski drum shellset UNIQUE $35,000.00

“Crystal Groove” Swarovski drum shell set by bcp-drums $35,000.00

MINK Fur CHINCHILLA Coat SWAROVSKI Crystals $65,000 New $18,845.00

SCHONBEK TIARA CHANDELIER SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL 38 LIGHT $14,870.00

Swarovski Crystal Large Black Bull Limited Edition NIB $14,450.00

96″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal GT $11,200.00

96″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal GT $11,200.00

96″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal CL $9,800.00

96″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal CL $9,800.00

Swarovski Crystal Sottass Centrotavola Limited BNIB $9,500.00

72″H Saturn Light Foyer Chandelier w Swarovski Crystals $8,500.00

Schonbek Swarovski Crystal Chandelier $7,680.00

HOT RICH ROBERTO CAVALLI SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS DRESS GOWN $7,172.25

DOLCE GABBANA SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL MASTERPIECE DRESS GOWN $7,000.00

Maria Theresa Foyer Lighting Lamp w. Swarovski Crystals $6,900.00

Foyer Lighting Galaxy Swarovski Crystal Chandelier Lamp $6,800.00

Foyer Lighting Swarovski Crystal Galaxy Chandelier H96″ $6,500.00

Maxim Hanging Light Chandelier w Swarovski Crystal 3380 $6,300.00

MASTERPIECE SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL DRESS GOWN DOLCE GABBANA $5,999.00

SWAROVSKI AUSTRIAN SILVER CRYSTAL MAXI SWAN + BONUS.. $5,999.00

48″ Classic Foyer Chandelier Lighting Swarovski Crystal $5,999.00

48″ Classic Foyer Chandelier Lighting Swarovski Crystal $5,999.00

24″ Dual-mount Saturn Chandelier w. Swarovski Crystals $5,999.00

SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL SPECIALp-ce DOLCE GABBANA DRESS GOWN $5,999.00

54″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal GT $5,990.00

54″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal GT $5,990.00

Royal Gold Empire Swarovski Crystal Flush Mount $5,970.00

60″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal GT $5,900.00

60″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal GT $5,900.00

Royal Gold Swarovski Crystal Entry Chandelier $5,665.00

SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL FLORAL MIRROR SONIA MIZRAHI $11000 $5,600.00

Foyer Chandelier Light Fixture S Swarovski Crystal NIB $5,600.00

Maxim Hanging Light Chandelier w Swarovski Crystal 3280 $5,600.00

42″ Light Fixture Foyer Chandelier w. Swarovski Crystal $5,590.00

Swarovski Limited Edition Crystal Eagle #71 Low Number $5,500.00

54″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal CL $5,500.00

54″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal CL $5,500.00

Jimmy Crystal Swarovski Horse Head $5,400.00

Maxim Hanging Light Chandelier w Swarovski Crystal 3180 $5,400.00

60″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal CL $5,250.00

60″ Foyer Chandelier Maria Theresa Swarovski Crystal CL $5,250.00

NIB* Swarovski Maxi Swan Animal Crystal Figurine 189254 $5,250.00

FABULOUS BALMAIN LEATHER W SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS DRESS $5,249.75

$1,300,000.00 Swarovski God of War Crystal Skull NWT $5,000.00

2004 Swarovski Crystal Limited Edition Bull Steer $5,000.00

FOYER CHANDELIER LAMP P SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL SPECIAL NEW $5,000.00

Foyer 60″H Galaxy Chandelier Light w. Swarovski Crystal $5,000.00

80″ Maxim Hanging Light Chandelier w Swarovski Crystals $5,000.00

Foyer Lighting Swarovski Crystal Galaxy Chandelier H72″ $4,999.00

20″ Saturn Mini Foyer Chandelier w. Swarovski Crystals $4,999.00

GUCCI TOM FORD BLACK DRESS WITH SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS $4,995.00

36″ Classic Foyer Chandelier Lighting Swarovski Crystal $4,990.00

36″ Classic Foyer Chandelier Lighting Swarovski Crystal $4,990.00

28″ Galaxy Dual-Mount Chandelier w. Swarovski Crystals $4,900.00

24″ Galaxy Dual-Mount Chandelier w. Swarovski Crystals $4,900.00

48″ Flush Mount Chandelier Light w. Swarovski Crystal $4,895.00

42″ Foyer Chandelier Light Fixture w. Swarovski Crystal $4,750.00

Maxim Hanging Light Chandelier w Swarovski Crystal 3366 $4,600.00

Swarovski Crystal Wild Horses *Limited Edition* 2001 $4,500.00

SCHONBEK RIVENDELL STRASS CHANDELIER SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL $4,499.95

Kikkerland Solar-Powered Rainbow Maker $16.60 Dazzle up any old boring room with your very own Rainbow Maker! This unique decor item, designed by David Dear, is solar powered and innovative in its own way. Simply stick the Rainbow Maker, using the built-in suction cup, to any window that receives direct sunlight. The genuine Swarovski Crystal will rotate and refract sunlight to create rotational rainbows that will fill your room with beauti…

Kikkerland Solar-Powered Double Rainbow Maker $23.59 Dazzle up any old boring room with your very own Rainbow Maker! This unique decor item, designed by David Dear, is solar powered and innovative in its own way. Simply stick the Rainbow Maker, using the built-in suction cup, to any window that receives direct sunlight. The genuine Swarovski Crystals will counter rotate and refract sunlight to create overlapping, rotational rainbows that will fill…

20mm Crystal Ball Prisms #701-20 $1.24 Hung in windows, crystals can bring chi energy from the outside into dark areas of your home or office.A crystal placed in the south-east, north-west, or center of a room can aid in stimulating prosperity. Only the finest quality lead crystal is used which makes them the most valued type of crystal. Each is made with a hole for hanging in your window or attaching to projects.They make great gifts…

Crystal Tattoo $2.24 …

The Most Wonderful Christmas Songs in the World: The Magic of the Crystal Pan Pipes $59.59 17 tracks of Christmas songs performed by Daniela de Santos on the Crystal Pan Pipes with the Philharmonie Baden-Baden, Swarovski Blasorchester, Sydney Youngblood. Jewel case contains not only the CD, but also a few hundred Swarovski crystals! This CD appears to be Austrian produced. No copyright date….

Swarovski Crystal Palace, Music to Captivate All Senses $5.99 Swarovski has mastered the art of reflection and refraction. Their crystal reflects and refracts the light of our world allowing us to see the world in new ways. Sound waves and light waves acti in similar way. Music, like light, is also a metaphor for life and this sonic journey is tribute to the refraction and reflection….

Peel and Stick Wall Decal – Rhinestone Chandelier $10.00 …

Signature Moments Swarovski Crystal April Birthstone Bead $22.09 Create your own personalized jewelry with beads from the Signature Moments collection. This sterling silver birthstone bead is decorated with diamond white Swarovski crystals.

Signature Moments Swarovski Crystal May Birthstone Bead $21.79 Celebrate…Inspire…Design… Signature Moments jewelry lets you personalize your look. This sterling silver charm is encrusted with genuine emerald green Swarovski crystals to celebrate a May birthday.

Signature Moments Swarovski Crystal June Birthstone Bead $23.49 Create your own personalized jewelry with beads from the Signature Moments collection. This sterling silver birthstone bead is decorated with alexandrite purple Swarovski crystals.

Crystale L&J Swarovski Crystal Stretch Bracelet $16.59 This fashion bracelet is crafted of large and small sparkling Swarovski crystals. the stretch design on the bracelet securely fits most wrists.

Signature Moments Swarovski Crystal September Birthstone Bead $23.99 Celebrate…Inspire…Design… Signature Moments jewelry lets you personalize your look. This sterling silver charm is encrusted with genuine sapphire blue Swarovski crystals to celebrate a September birthday.

Signature Moments Swarovski Crystal November Birthstone Bead $25.99 Create your own personalized jewelry with beads from the Signature Moments collection. This sterling silver birthstone bead is decorated with topaz yellow Swarovski crystals.

Signature Moments Swarovski Crystal March Birthstone Bead $24.99 Create your own personalized jewelry with beads from the Signature Moments collection. This sterling silver birthstone bead is decorated with aqua blue Swarovski crystals.

Signature Moments Swarovski Crystal December Birthstone Bead $24.79 Create your own personalized jewelry with beads from the Signature Moments collection. This sterling silver birthstone bead is decorated with blue zircon Swarovski crystals.

Signature Moments Swarovski Crystal July Birthstone Bead $23.89 Create your own personalized jewelry with beads from the Signature Moments collection. This sterling silver birthstone bead is decorated with ruby red Swarovski crystals.

Bulova Women’s Swarovski Crystal Steel Watch $107.11 Add traditional beauty to your jewelry collection with a Bulova watchWomen’s timepiece features an ivory dialMini dress watch is ideal for almost any occasion

Jolee’s Jewels Celebrations Crystal Swarovski Pearl/Crystal Elements (Pack of 30) $7.09 Create your own jewelry designs featuring crystallized Swarovski Elements. This package of Jolee’s Jewels contains thirty assorted white pearl and crystal bi-cone beads.

Signature Moments Swarovski Crystal February Birthstone Bead $25.99 Celebrate…Inspire…Design… Signature Moments jewelry lets you personalize your look. This sterling silver charm is encrusted with genuine amethyst purple Swarovski crystals to celebrate a February birthday.

Signature Moments Swarovski Crystal August Birthstone Bead $26.99 Create your own personalized jewelry with beads from the Signature Moments collection. This sterling silver birthstone bead is decorated with green Swarovski crystals.

Bow Clippeez 2 Envy Swarovski Crystal Headband $32.99 This headband is a stunning and fashionable piece of jewelry that will beautifully compliment your wedding, prom or formal ensemble. In a silver color, this headband from Bow Clippeez 2 Envy shines with Swarovski crystals.

MS DJ Casanova Argentium Silver Swarovski AB Cube Crystal Earrings $22.49 Beautiful diagonal Swarovski AB cube crystals make this a truly unique pair of earrings. Reflecting a multitude of colors, these earrings hang from lustrous Argentium silver hooks.

Jolee’s Jewels Celebrations Crystal Swarovski Elements Rose Garden Dangles $5.69 Create your own jewelry designs featuring crystallized Swarovski Elements. This package of Jolee’s Jewels contains two goldtone rose garden dangles with topaz and crystal accents.

I Heart My [Bump] Swarovski Crystal Maternity T-shirt $55 This cute maternity shirt features ribbed combed-cotton construction with a wide scoop neck and short sleeves. This light blue top also features the sweet phrase ‘I (heart) my [bump]‘ in red with Swarovski crystal accents.

USB 2GB Flash Drive with Swarvoski Crystals $13.6 Enhance your personal style with a USB flash drive with Swarvoski CrystalsElectronics drive is a culmination of technology and timeless beauty of fine crystal jewelryStorage features a 2 GB storage capacity

Jolee’s Jewels Celebrations Crystal Swarovski Elements Simple Flowers Pendant $5.69 Create your own jewelry designs featuring crystallized Swarovski Elements. This package of Jolee’s Jewels contains one silvertone flower pendant with crystal accents.

Jolee’s Jewels Celebrations Crystal Swarovski Elements Antique Flower Pendant $5.69 Create your own jewelry designs featuring crystallized Swarovski Elements. This package of Jolee’s Jewels contains one goldtone-trimmed flower pendant with crystal accents.

Citizen Eco-Drive Women’s ‘Silhouette’ Bangle Swarovski Crystal Watch $0 This Citizen Eco-Drive stainless steel women’s watch is suitable for any occasion. A black dial with goldtone hands completes the look of this classic timepiece.

Crystale Black Swarovski Crystal Stretch Bracelet $15.19 Black Swarovski crystals highlight this stylish Crystale bracelet. This bracelet features a stretch design.

Jolee’s Jewels Celebrations Crystal Swarovski Elements ‘Cross My Heart’ Pendant $5.69 Create your own jewelry designs featuring crystallized Swarovski Elements. This package of Jolee’s Jewels contains one ‘Cross My Heart’ silver pendant with crystal accents.

Bow Clippeez 2 Envy Couture Swarovski Crystal Scroll Headband $139.99 Adorn yourself with a Swarovski crystal couture scroll headband with beveled band. This headband is a stunning and fashionable piece of jewelry that will beautifully compliment your wedding, prom or formal ensemble.

Beadwork by Julie Picture Jasper and Swarovski Crystal Watch $49.49 Large wavy round picture jasper beads with the hues of sage green, brown, and black come together with shiny jet black Swarovski crystal beads in this watch. With a silvertone round face, this women’s timepiece closes with a sterling silver toggle clasp.

Citizen Women’s ‘Normandie’ Swarovski Crystals Eco-drive Watch $281.25 This stainless steel Citizen watch features a stunning look with silvertone hands set against a black dial. Eco-drive movement and Swarovski crystals on the case and bracelet highlight this watch.

[Bump] Swarovski Crystal Long-sleeve Maternity Top $65 This cute maternity shirt features soft combed-cotton construction, long belled sleeves and a deep V-neck. This black shirt features the word ‘[bump]‘ with Swarovski crystals.

MS DJ Casanova Silver Black/ White Swarovski Crystal Pearl Jewelry Set $40.99 This beautiful, classic bracelet and earring set is made with Swarovski Crystal pearls in black and white with pewter spacers and an easy to use adjustable hook style clasp.

Celeste Silvertone Swarovski Crystal 10-row Cuff Bracelet $89.99 Fashionable rhodium plating accents this open-ended cuff. This bracelet features 10 rows of micro-prong-set clear Swarovski crystals.

MS DJ Casanova Argentium Silver Swarovski AB Crystal Earrings $17.99 Beautiful AB Crystal Swarovski beads are capped with delicate pewter flower bead caps on these earrings, Hanging from Argentium silver earwire hooks, these earrings are delicate but will add sparkle to any outfit.

Silver Barber Dime with Amazonite Stone and Swarovski Crystal $23.49 This exquisite pendant features a Silver Barber Dime, minted from 1892-1916 with amazonite stone and swarovski crystal pendant. This collectible also highlights a 24-inch chain and includes a certificate of authenticity.

Sterling Silver Multi-colored Crystal Flower Earrings (USA) $18.49 Adorn yourself in the beauty of colorful handmade jewelry. These earrings feature Swarovski crystals in various colors with seed beads arranged in a floral design, hanging from sterling silver hooks.

Stainless Steel Multi-colored Delicate Crystal Flower Necklace (USA) $53.99 Adorn yourself in the beauty of colorful handmade jewelry. This necklace features Swarovski crystals in antique colors of dark blue, ruby, topaz, olivine and amethyst arranged in a striking floral design, held together with a stainless steel clasp.

MS DJ Casanova Argentium Silver AB Swarovski Graphic Crystal Earrings $20.99 Beautiful Swarovski graphic crystal beads make this a truly unique pair of earrings. Reflecting a multitude of colors, these earrings hang from lustrous Argentium silver hooks.

Jolee’s Jewels Trend Crystallized Swarovski Elements AB Crystal Heart Mix $6.99 Create your own jewelry designs featuring crystallized Swarovski Elements. This package of Jolee’s Jewels contains one heart pendant and thirteen assorted smaller heart and bi-cone beads.