How Are Swarovski Crystals Made?

A Secret Formula

The making of Swarovski Crystals begins with a secret family formula that has been used for over one hundred years. This formula originated from the Swarovski family and generates the foundation for the finest quality of full lead crystals, making them known as the diamond of the crystal market. Swarovski Crystals was founded in 1895 by Daniel Swarovski I. This member of the Swarovski family was fascinated with glass cutting at an early age and spent nine years developing a machine that would cut crystals with extreme precision; a vast improvement over traditional hand cutting. Although the basics of making Swarovski Crystals are known, the complete process will continue to remain a family secret to deter replication by other crystal competitors.

Making Swarovski Crystals

Swarovski Crystals are a man-made product of raw materials using natural minerals and pure quartz sand. The minerals and sand are combined and fired for an undisclosed period of time. Once removed from firing, they go through a very slow cooling process. The slow cooling process reduces flaws and imperfections in the final product. These specialty crystals have a lead content of 32% which enables them to be categorized as full lead crystal. Even though lead is a known toxin, the wearing of crystal jewelry containing lead does not pose any health risks. Although Swarovski Crystals are often referred to as Swarovski silver, the crystals do not contain silver and are named as such for their silver brilliant appearance. Once a solid product, the crystals are cut using a cutting machine designed by Daniel Swarovski. This machine makes it possible to cut crystals so they have as many as one hundred mirrored facets in various directions allowing light to refract creating brilliant prisms and an array of colors. The directions in which the crystals are cut are determined by a computer, then processed with a technology that simulates the cut effects in three dimension. Special metallic coatings may be painted on the crystals to capture a full spectrum of rainbow colors. After a crystal has been completed, it is polished to create a superior finish.

Crystals, Crystals, Everywhere

Swarovski Crystals are made into pendants, necklaces, rings, beads and any possible jewelry combination imaginable. Modern designs also feature Swarovski Crystals on fashion wear such as clothing, purses, belts, sandals and more. Brides like to use Swarovski Crystals due to the fact that from a distance, their appearance and shimmering capabilities emulates the same characteristics of diamonds. Designers continue to create new shapes, colors and themes so Swarovski Crystals can continue to put on a unique show of color and light.

Resources

• Visit the original Swarvoski Crystal website to see the latest designs.