Swarovski Crystal Beads

When Daniel Swarovski invented an automatic cutting machine in 1892, he not only changed the process of cutting Crystal Jewelry Stones, but also raised it to a level of precision.  From 1895 until today, Swarovski crystal beads continue its legacy of perfection and timeless pieces.

A brief glimpse of the Swarovski legacy

From the day the company was erected, Daniel Swarovski and his family worked on the most dazzling crystals in Austria.  In 1931, "Trimmings", which are bands and borders laid with crystal jewelry stones, were registered for patent.

The year 1956, Swarovski introduced to the world the Aurora Borealis effect, by experimenting on coating the Swarovski crystal beads with wafer thin metal particles to intensify their sparkle.  They were able to manufacture the material by steaming it in a vacuum.   Working closely with Christian Dior, Manfred Swarovski fabricated the "Aurora Borealis", which gives off the shimmering colors of a rainbow on every facet.

As the years moved on, Swarovski crystal beads began to take worldwide notice.  By 1977, the first line of jewelry was introduced called the Swarovski Jeweler's Collection, composed of the most dazzling earrings, rings, necklaces and bracelets.  Towards the end of the 1980's, a limited edition of innovative and contemporary line was released designed by leading Italian designers and architects: Ettore Scottsass, Alessandro Mendini, and Stafano Ricci.  This collection was among the objects Daniel Swarovski considered Accessories – jewels, belts, and handbags.  The launching in 1989 was directed by Rosamarie Le Gallais. 

Composition of Swarovski Crystal Beads

The crystal beads from Swarovski are looked up as the finest, full-lead crystal among today's generation.  The Swarovski crystal beads contain at least 32% Lead to visually clear and pure.  The crystals are then cut to bring out extremely precise facets and create prisms.  These crystals are treated or coated with different colors to fabricate stones, beads, pendants, in hundreds of shapes and sizes. 

You, too, can make your unique Swarovski necklace using this design and by following these steps.  First, prepare these Swarovski materials: 14 pieces Swarovski Crystal Beads in Pearl in light blue (sizes 8mm, 10mm, 12mm), 1 silk cord (#06/Turquoise), 2 Sterling Silver Clamshell Bead Tip, 6 Sterling Silver Split Rings (6mm), 1 Sterling Silver Double Clasp Moonstone, and 1 Glue Bond.  These tools will help you complete your Swarovski necklace: split ring pliers, side cutters, round nose pliers, and tweezers.

Begin by attaching one Sterling Silvre Split Rings to all connector holes of the Moonstone using split ring pliers.  String one Clamshell onto the silk cord together with seven 8mm Swarovski crystal pearls, seven 10mm Swarovski crystal beads (pearls), five 12mm Swarovski crystal beads (pearls), followed by seven 10mm crystal pearls, and the remaining seven 8mm crystal pearls.  Next, string the other clamshell bead tip, and push all crystals that follow the first knot up to the needle end of the cord.  Close the silk cord by stringing two overhand knots on the end where there's no needle. 

Lock these in the clamshell of the last clamshell bead tip but don't close it yet.  Drop a small amount of glue on the knots then let dry, then cut any excess cord.  Do an overhand knot on the other side of the clamshell bead tip, at the same time do the technique for pearl knotting.  Finally, attach 6mm sterling split rings to the split rings on Double Clasp Moontone, and repeat on the other side.  Estimated total cost of this project is $19.43, excluding the tools.