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 glass used to craft this crystal contains a high amount of lead, which gives it its characteristic diamond-like appearance. They can be cut into a wide variety of shapes, each type being represented by a four-digit number code. Examples of the many cuts available include round, cube, bicone, rondell, oval, teardrop, and heart. Some are also designed to be strung or sewed onto material for original creations.
Naturally versatile, pieces of jewelry made from these crystals are the perfect touch to any wardrobe. Sold in both women's and men's styles, one is sure to find a striking watch, bracelet, pendant, pair of earrings, or ring that nicely sets off both casual and formal attire. Not only do they make elegant jewelry, but there are also exquisite crystal sculptures, vases, and Christmas decorations, cherished by many collectors.
One of the many fascinating qualities of this crystal is its ability to emit multiple colors when the light hits it. The main color of the crystal determines which other shades it will give off when illuminated. This effect is the result of a chemical process during manufacturing which enables the bead to absorb and reflect back varying wavelengths of light.
The specially-formulated exterior finishes applied with heat to the cut glass contain just the right mixture of metallic compounds needed to produce the characteristic luminescence. A single or double coating may be applied, those which receive two coats are referred to as "2X". A wide assortment of colors and shades are produced in each finish type, namely the intense, multi-faceted Aurora Borealis (AB) and the double-coated AB 2X finishes, and the softer, more subtle satin and color finishes.
Buyers must be aware that there are some imposters out there, so it is essential that one knows the marks of a genuine Swarovski. Typically, an authentic crystal will be free of any bubbles, have an even luster and high sparkle from even cutting, all facets will point upwards and uniformly meet at the same junctures, and the place of manufacture will be stamped as "Wattens, Austria".
Collectors who are interested in purchasing a vintage piece from a particular era, can date it using the signature mark, which in most cases consists of both words and an image, but sometimes the latter is omitted. Another way to assess the age of a crystal piece is if it has an Aurora Borealis finish, since this was not introduced until 1956, any with this finish were made in this year or later.
Crystal jewelry should be kept in a soft case when it's not being worn and gently polished using a soft cloth periodically, to keep it looking radiant. It should not come into contact with cosmetics, or be worn while swimming, if it is to last for many years and retain its beauty.
The glass used to craft this crystal contains a high amount of lead, which gives it its characteristic diamond-like appearance. They can be cut into a wide variety of shapes, each type being represented by a four-digit number code. Examples of the many cuts available include round, cube, bicone, rondell, oval, teardrop, and heart. Some are also designed to be strung or sewed onto material for original creations.
Naturally versatile, pieces of jewelry made from these crystals are the perfect touch to any wardrobe. Sold in both women's and men's styles, one is sure to find a striking watch, bracelet, pendant, pair of earrings, or ring that nicely sets off both casual and formal attire. Not only do they make elegant jewelry, but there are also exquisite crystal sculptures, vases, and Christmas decorations, cherished by many collectors.
One of the many fascinating qualities of this crystal is its ability to emit multiple colors when the light hits it. The main color of the crystal determines which other shades it will give off when illuminated. This effect is the result of a chemical process during manufacturing which enables the bead to absorb and reflect back varying wavelengths of light.
The specially-formulated exterior finishes applied with heat to the cut glass contain just the right mixture of metallic compounds needed to produce the characteristic luminescence. A single or double coating may be applied, those which receive two coats are referred to as "2X". A wide assortment of colors and shades are produced in each finish type, namely the intense, multi-faceted Aurora Borealis (AB) and the double-coated AB 2X finishes, and the softer, more subtle satin and color finishes.
Buyers must be aware that there are some imposters out there, so it is essential that one knows the marks of a genuine Swarovski. Typically, an authentic crystal will be free of any bubbles, have an even luster and high sparkle from even cutting, all facets will point upwards and uniformly meet at the same junctures, and the place of manufacture will be stamped as "Wattens, Austria".
Collectors who are interested in purchasing a vintage piece from a particular era, can date it using the signature mark, which in most cases consists of both words and an image, but sometimes the latter is omitted. Another way to assess the age of a crystal piece is if it has an Aurora Borealis finish, since this was not introduced until 1956, any with this finish were made in this year or later.
Crystal jewelry should be kept in a soft case when it's not being worn and gently polished using a soft cloth periodically, to keep it looking radiant. It should not come into contact with cosmetics, or be worn while swimming, if it is to last for many years and retain its beauty.
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