Hobbies And Interests
History
The history of Austrian crystal dates back to 1892. Bohemian (presently Czech Republic) born Daniel Swarovski invented and patented a machine that cut crystal with far more precision than was possible before. To take advantage of hydroelectric power three years later the factory moved to Wattens, Tyrol (presently Austria) and set up a crystal cutting factory. In 1931 the company introduced crystal-studded ribbon for use in the world of fashion. In the 1950s and 1960s the company worked with fashion designers to create new designs and finishes for the crystals to further enhance them. During the 1970s the company expanded dramatically and created a method to attach crystals to a variety of materials, making them more useful in fashion and crafting. They also created crystal figurines and a jewelry line. Since then they've spanned into creating crystal fabric, chandeliers and have a group of devoted collectors and crafters.
The Crystals
Crystal must contain lead to be crystal. It also must have a minimum of 10 percent zinc, barium or potash. Austrian crystal composition is 32 percent lead so that it maximizes the refraction. Besides containing extra lead and being cut to increase sparkle and dazzle, Austrian crystala may have an extra coating to enhance the specific colors they reflect.
Collectibles
In 1976 Swarovski presented their first crystal figurine to the world. The mouse, their first creation, is no longer in production. Since then they've spanned into every area including creating figurines for movies and television. They have a line of Disney characters in addition to silver crystal figurines, limited additions, and exclusive creations for members of the Swarovski Crystal Society.
Crafting
The "Create Your Style" website is another community involved with the Swarovski company. Instead of purchasing the products the community is all about creating designs, jewelry and crafts from the Austrian crystal beads and other Swarovski products. On the site the members display their creations from necklaces to evening purses.
Fashion
Swarovski first presented their line of jewelry in 1977. The line expanded to other mediums besides crystal. The designs vary and now metals, pearls and other stones are part of the jewelry. Since the joint venture with Golay in 1999, the company also has an array of precision cut gemstones and manmade stones in addition to the crystals. The development of crystal mesh in 1993 and crystal fabric in 2003 gave Swarovski a firm foothold in the fashion industry.