Swarovski Crystal Beads

Swarovski crystal beads are one of the most-used types of beads when it comes to making handmade jewelry, and rightly so. If you have ever seen a bracelet or a pair of earrings made from these glowing, sparkly crystals, you know that any piece of jewelry looks better with them than without them!

Swarovski Beads and High Quality

The Swarovski Company uses only the highest quality Austrian crystal to make its crystal beads. Crystal is blown glass that has had PbO – or lead oxide – added to it. The lead adds sparkle by making the refraction rate in the glass higher. Daniel Swarovski, from the infamous Swarovski family of cut glass and crystal makers, perfected a machine that cut crystal in exact proportions in the late 1800’s. Ever since, the Swarovski company has been producing beautifully cut crystal figurines, serveware, wardrobe components such as buttons and belt buckles, and of course, all sorts of jewelry components.

Shapes of Swarovski Crystal Beads

Austrian crystal beads created by the Swarovski company come in many different shapes, and sizes. The most popular shape is the bicone, which looks like two round diamonds with their flat tops together. There are also round, rondelle, disc, and helix shaped beads, to name a few. Each shape comes in a myriad of sizes, so the design possibilities are just about endless.

Colors and Finishes Galore

Swarovski crystal beads also come in many different colors and finishes. You can find all the colors of the rainbow and then some. The finishes consist of coatings applied to the surface of the beads that slightly changes the way the bead sparkles or slightly changes the color of it. Not all of the beads come in every finish. Aurora Borealis, or AB, is the most popular finish. The coating adds an iridescent look to the bead. When light hits the bead, you will see different color flashes, and the bead appears to have a bit more “sparkle” than the beads with no AB finish. Some beads also come in a satin finish, which gives a softer look to the bead. Take a look at my Swarovski crystal beads color chart to see all of the beautiful colors and finishes available.

Anyone who makes handmade jewelry should take a look at Swarovski crystal beads. They are beautiful, and they add a bit (or a lot!) of sparkle to any jewelry design. Crystal earrings, pendants, and bracelets are wonderful additions to any jewelry wardrobe. If you make lots of jewelry, look into getting wholesale Swarovski crystal beads online. If you have a business, you can buy them in bulk at wholesale prices and save quite a bit of money. Discount Swarovski crystal beads are available from many online retailers also. Usually, the more you buy from them, the bigger your discount will be.

One important thing to remember about any type of lead crystal bead: Because of the small amount of lead in them, never use crystal beads to make children’s jewelry, and do not give crystal jewelry to children. Lead crystal beads are not harmful to adults and teenagers but young children might place the beads in their mouth, and the lead in the beads may leach out of the bead when it comes in contact with saliva. Some states actually have laws regulating the use of lead crystal beads for children’s jewelry, and all jewelry made with them must be labeled. A good rule of thumb is to check the laws in your area before selling any jewelry made with crystal beads.

Swarovski Crystal Beads Color Chart

Happy Shopping!