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.
One aspect which makes this crystal stand out from the rest is its affinity for refracting light into a multitude of stunning colors. A chemical treatment of the crystal which gives it the ability to absorb and reflect a wide range of light wavelengths. The color spectrum emitted is generally a series of variations of the base color.
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.
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".
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.
Lead crystal jewelry should not be worn while swimming, nor should it come into contact with most cosmetic products. Regularly polishing it with a soft cloth and storing it in a soft case when not being worn, will help it maintain its original shine and prevent damage.
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.
One aspect which makes this crystal stand out from the rest is its affinity for refracting light into a multitude of stunning colors. A chemical treatment of the crystal which gives it the ability to absorb and reflect a wide range of light wavelengths. The color spectrum emitted is generally a series of variations of the base color.
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.
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".
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.
Lead crystal jewelry should not be worn while swimming, nor should it come into contact with most cosmetic products. Regularly polishing it with a soft cloth and storing it in a soft case when not being worn, will help it maintain its original shine and prevent damage.
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