The Swarovski name has been associated with some of the world's finest crystal since 1895. Esteemed for its exceptional luminosity and vivid range of colors, this leaded-glass crystal is desired by both those who collect and those who make jewelry. When in the market for Swarovski crystals San Francisco CA buyers must know how to recognize a genuine piece, and be familiar with the selection available to them.
The diamond look of Swarovski crystal is primarily achieved by the use of glass which contains a high percentage of lead and lead oxide. These pieces are shaped using a special, precision cutting technique and come in many different cuts including the cube, rondell, bicone, round, teardrop, heart, and oval shapes, as well as those which can be sewn onto fabric or strung. Each group has its own four-digit code.
Its outstanding versatility makes Swarovski jewelry a great accent for any outfit. A sparkling crystal pair of earrings, pendant, bracelet, or ring can look equally stylish when worn with either a casual or dressy ensemble. Both women's and men's pieces are available which feature these eye-catching crystals. They are also used to make some lovely collector's items such as Christmas ornaments, sculptures, and vases.
Perhaps the most intriguing quality of this crystal is the way it exudes rays of many colors when held up to the light. While the crystal typically has a base color, various hues of this will be emitted when light hits the piece. This is possible due to a special chemical process in its manufacture which allows the crystal to absorb varying light wavelengths and reflect them back.
The heated chemical coatings which give crystal its distinctive luminescence contain a patented combination of metallic compounds. One or two coatings may be applied, if there are two, the piece will be designated as "2X". The most common finishes include the multi-faceted, Aurora Borealis and Aurora Borealis 2X, also known as "AB" finishes, as well as the more uniform satin, and color finishes. A large selection of colors and shades of each type are produced.
As with any thing of value, there are some imitation Swarovskis out there, which is why it's important to know how to identify when it's the real thing. An authentic crystal should be stamped with "Wattens, Austria" as its place of origin, its even cut should produce facets which point upwards and all meet at the same junctures and a brilliant sparkle, and there should be uniform luster with no air bubbles inside.
Some people enjoy collecting antique or vintage Swarovski pieces from bygone eras. Dating a crystal item is made relatively simple by the fact that the image and words of the signature mark was changed from time to time. In addition to this, one will know that any piece with the Aurora Borealis finish dates from after 1956, the year this design was introduced.
It is important to properly care for these delicate pieces if they are to retain their luster and not get damaged. Polishing regularly with a soft cloth helps maintain shine, and they should preferably be stored in a soft pouch to prevent scratches. One must avoid wearing this jewelry while swimming, and it should not come into contact with cosmetic products.
The diamond look of Swarovski crystal is primarily achieved by the use of glass which contains a high percentage of lead and lead oxide. These pieces are shaped using a special, precision cutting technique and come in many different cuts including the cube, rondell, bicone, round, teardrop, heart, and oval shapes, as well as those which can be sewn onto fabric or strung. Each group has its own four-digit code.
Its outstanding versatility makes Swarovski jewelry a great accent for any outfit. A sparkling crystal pair of earrings, pendant, bracelet, or ring can look equally stylish when worn with either a casual or dressy ensemble. Both women's and men's pieces are available which feature these eye-catching crystals. They are also used to make some lovely collector's items such as Christmas ornaments, sculptures, and vases.
Perhaps the most intriguing quality of this crystal is the way it exudes rays of many colors when held up to the light. While the crystal typically has a base color, various hues of this will be emitted when light hits the piece. This is possible due to a special chemical process in its manufacture which allows the crystal to absorb varying light wavelengths and reflect them back.
The heated chemical coatings which give crystal its distinctive luminescence contain a patented combination of metallic compounds. One or two coatings may be applied, if there are two, the piece will be designated as "2X". The most common finishes include the multi-faceted, Aurora Borealis and Aurora Borealis 2X, also known as "AB" finishes, as well as the more uniform satin, and color finishes. A large selection of colors and shades of each type are produced.
As with any thing of value, there are some imitation Swarovskis out there, which is why it's important to know how to identify when it's the real thing. An authentic crystal should be stamped with "Wattens, Austria" as its place of origin, its even cut should produce facets which point upwards and all meet at the same junctures and a brilliant sparkle, and there should be uniform luster with no air bubbles inside.
Some people enjoy collecting antique or vintage Swarovski pieces from bygone eras. Dating a crystal item is made relatively simple by the fact that the image and words of the signature mark was changed from time to time. In addition to this, one will know that any piece with the Aurora Borealis finish dates from after 1956, the year this design was introduced.
It is important to properly care for these delicate pieces if they are to retain their luster and not get damaged. Polishing regularly with a soft cloth helps maintain shine, and they should preferably be stored in a soft pouch to prevent scratches. One must avoid wearing this jewelry while swimming, and it should not come into contact with cosmetic products.
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