Swarovski crystal elements have been used a lot recently in jewellery making to add shine and sparkle, but did you know that Swarovski have been around for over 120 years? Read on to discover the history and heritage of the brand, and get inspired for your next sparkling project!
| In 1891, Daniel Swarovski's vision was to create 'a diamond for everyone'. He invented an electric machine that cut more accurately then ever before, marking the beginning of a new era for crystal. From America jazz halls to Parisian Haute Couture, dresses dripped with beads and Swarovski crystals, reflecting the excitement of the 1920's. |
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| In the 20th century, Swarovski unleashed incredible opportunities for designers of haute couture. The 'Aurora Borealis' effect, developed with Christian Dior in the 1950's, gave crystals a mesmoralising opalescent finish, and the fashion world, new creative possibilities. The crystals graced the silver screen in the century's most iconic films such as 'Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend' and 'Breakfast at Tiffany's.' On May 19th, 1962, Marilyn Monroe sang to the American President in a flesh coloured gown covered in Swarovski crystal, which was auctioned off in 1999 for 1.26 million dollars. |
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| Inspired by decades of creative collaborations and expertise, Swarovski opened its first boutique in the 1980's. The world's fascination with a new brand of jewellery and crystal figurines began. With the introduction of the annual limited edition Christmas ornament, a new tradition was born for collectors around the world. |
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| For over 35 years, Swarovski has captivated the world with unique pieces like the Nirvana cocktail ring, the Slake bracelet and its signature Swiss movement watches. In 2008, the magical 'crystal forest' interior design was implemented in stores worldwide, welcoming shoppers to an architectural crystal wonderland. Today, Karlie Kloss shines in a global advertising campaign as the modern woman embodying the spirit and essence of the Swarovski brand. |
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Feeling inspired? We sell a whole range of Swarovski crystals to add to your beadwork, from Chatons and Crystalettes, to Bicones and pearlescent pearls! In the Swarovski headquaters, new cuts, shapes and colours are conceived and realised every day, so bookmark this page and keep coming back to see the newest items! Shop our full range HERE
| Swarovski Bicones offer the highest standard available on the market. The high-quality precision cutting and the clear through-hole achieve high brilliance and clarity. Rounded hole edges reduce the wear on thread and increase the durability of designs. Available in a choice of different sizes, and in small or bulk packs. |
| Swarovski Crystalettes add that extra touch of elegance & sparkle to your bead designs. They have a tiny loop on them so that they can easily be worked into your creations without the need to change your pattern. Use individually for a subtle hint or put several together for that extra "wow" factor. They can also be used in many crafts such as knitting & embroidery. The only limit is your imagination! |
| Crystal Flat Backs - Glue onto our Bead Embroidery and make a sparkly brooch or bead around these flat back crystals! Available in a choice of different styles, shapes and sizes. |
| Rivolis are like a large round rhinestone - or a pointed back chaton. Normally the back is foiled, so as to provide more reflection of light hitting the front and therefore providing a greater sparkle. Used by Beaders for beading around or mounting in special findings to make distinctive designs. Available in a choice of 12, 14, 16 and 18mm sizes. |
| Our range of Crosses and Flowers come in a variety of colours. These are perfect for adding to charm bracelets, or making simple drop earrings! We also sell a range of 14mm Swarovski Hearts in a choice of different colours. |
| Our Swarovski pearls come in a plain or pearlescent styles, in a wide choice of sizes! Simple, and stunning. String with our range of Griffin natural Silk or Nylon Power. |
| Swarovksi Channels are wonderful little crystals, mounted in a ring frame (Gold Colour, Sterling Silver or Rhodium plating) that maximises their visual appeal. They have a fixing ring (one or two, that can be easily cut off if required) for attaching them to your designs. They may be used as a small charm or pendant - or with the double ring versions, used to create a chain. |
| Chatons have a slightly deeper back then Rivoli's and a slightly flatter top. Available in a wide range of different colours and sizes, from tiny 2.7mm to larger 11mm! |
| We also have a range of wholesale Swarovski beads available, and if you can't find what you're looking for, as always, please let us know as we may be able to get it in for you! |
Only the best materials are used in the production of Swarovski crystals. Quartz, minerals and sand are processed into real crystals in a complex process. The exact formula is a trade secret Daniel Swarovski left to his heirs. With this formula and a new type of grinding machine, he was the first to produce the finest crystal that sparkles like diamonds. Since then, Swarovski has repeatedly achieved a new breakthrough in the crystal industry. This guarantees the premium quality and high brilliance of Swarovski stones.