Category: Kristall Buzz

Swarovski Paradise Retirements at RetiredSwarovski.com

Swarovski introduced the Swarovski Paradise figurines in 2000.  I think the real significant feature of the Paradise line is that it was the first line to be in all color, not just using color for highlights.  In this initial launch of the crystal creations, all the Paradise figurines were insects:  Swarovski Paradise Bees / Bumblebees, Swarovski  Paradise Beetles, Swarovski  Paradise Butterflies, Swarovski Paradise Dragonflies, Swarovski Paradise Flies, Swarovski Paradise Grasshoppers, & Swarovski Paradise Scarabs.

Swarovski created the Paradise ‘Exotic Fish and South Sea’ in 2004.  There were approximately 19 different figurines in this collection.  Nearly all of the ‘Exotic Fish and South Sea’ were retired by 2007.

The Paradise ‘Exotic Flowers’ was launched in 2006.  As of today, there are about 11 items in this collection.  Some of the Exotic Flowers are retired and some are still being produced.

Overall, there are over 190 Swarovski Crystal figurines that have been connected with the Swarovski Paradise line.  Over the course of time, unassigned figurines have been introduced into the Paradise line, perhaps because of the significant use of coloring. The Cockatoo, Macaw, Parrot, and Black Diamond Toucan are examples are some of them.

Swarovski Paradise Black Diamond Toucan Retired in 2009

 

At present, Swarovski does not utilize theme groups within the Paradise line, but the Paradise birds are in the ‘Silver Lake’ collection.

Now, after the brief history lesson, I can reveal that there is a web site with the Swarovski Paradise Retirements in a free and easy-to-use format.  http://www.retiredswarovski.com/ has a series of web pages with Swarovski Paradise Retirements, 2002 through 2010.  If you want to know what year a Swarovski Paradise figurine retired, type it in the ‘search’ box of the site, and the results list will indicate a list of possibilities for a collector to select from to make getting the retirement year (answer) successful.

At RetiredSwarovski.com, it is also possible to print out the fact sheet listings by year of Swarovski Paradise retirements, 2002 to 2009.  The fact sheets are very useful in knowing which figurines retired in which years.  The fact sheets include small photos, Swarovski Name, Swarovski Part Number, and Year Introduced.

Crystal Exchange America has a selection of Retired Swarovski Paradise figurines in their online store.  If there is a Swarovski Paradise crystal piece missing from your collection, give them a shout to see if they have it available now, or if it is something that they can locate for you.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Puzzle Contest – Up to the Challenge?

At the Swarovski web site, there is a Swarovski Puzzle for visitors and SCS members to play.  The Swarovski puzzle allows a user to select various images to play the ‘slider game’.  I found about 5 different images to select from.  The images I was presented were all related to Siku, the polar bear cubs, or the SCS arctic  flower products  The Swarovski puzzle has varying levels of difficulty:  3×3, 4×4, and 5×5.  The higher the level of difficulty, the more time the puzzle player has to complete the challenge.

The first step was to install Adobe Shockwave to play.  I was anxious to get started!  I selected the image for the Swarovski puzzle.  I then selected the easy mode. Sadly, I did not have good luck in the small amount of time provided. It’s probably not that difficult, but I found myself ready to give up after a few tries.  Guess I need to bookmark the Swarovski puzzle page and try again before the end of the month.

The Swarovski crystal puzzle is a cool idea.  The Swarovski site indicates that prizes are available for a monthly drawing to users who are able to solve the puzzle within the allotted time.  I did not see any indication as to what the prizes are or how many are available.  Good luck to all Swarovski fanatics who take the challenge of the Swarovski puzzle!

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

SCS Arctic – Flower Swarovski Figurines in the Snow

The arctic air remains upon us (-6 degrees Fahrenheit!), so it’s time to pull out the camera today for more pictures of SCS figurines.  Well this time, when I say SCS figurines, I’m actually referring to “Super Cold Swarovski” figurines.

Today, the photography focus was on Swarovski flowers in the arctic snow and ice.  Two more Swarovski figurines were selected for today’s photo challenge: the Swarovski Poinsettia and the Swarovski Star Blossoms.

The Swarovski flower Poinsettia glistened in the arctic snow¦.it’ s amazing that the snowflakes can be seen on the crystal figurine.  If you look closely at the image, the frosty snow can be seen resting on the flower petals of the SCS figurine (remember, that’s Super Cold Swarovski). The Swarovski Poinsettia was introduced in 2007 can be found at the Swarovski web site for $95.

 

Swarovski Poinsettia
The Swarovski flower Star Blossoms also had a neat appeal when photographed in the chilly outdoors.  The arctic snow surrounding the Swarovski Star Blossoms can be seen in the background.  The Swarovski Star Blossoms were introduced in 2009 and are now a part of the retired Swarovski collection.  There is still some left inventory of the online store and they are on sale for $55!  What a bargain for a Swarovski crystal figurine that once retailed for $90.
Swarovski Star Blossoms
Hopefully,  Swarovski fanatics remaining warm, or better yet in a much more pleasant climate, away from the chilly arctic blast!  Perhaps there will be some more pictures of Swarovski flower arctic-style in the snow posted here again!  If there are any retired Swarovski flowers on your wish list, check out Crystal Exchange America  web site http://www.crystalexchange.com/  there’s a good bit listed there.
Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Database includes Arctic Flower Products

The Swarovski Database by Warner’s Blue Ribbon Books on Swarovski has a few new figurines added since the first of the year.  Tom and Jane Warner, the database owners, believed Swarovski crystal collectors would want to have access to the newest SCS member issues that will also be in the next Swarovski book release.

Among the Swarovski figurines in the database are:
  • 2011 Siku Polar Bear, Crystal Moonlight
  • 2011 Polar Bear Cubs, Crystal Moonlight
  • 2011 Polar Bear Cubs, White Opal
  • 2011 Arctic Flower Pendant
  • 2011 SCS Arctic Flower Pierced Earrings
  • 2011 SCS Arctic Flower Bracelet
  • 2011 SCS Arctic Flower Ballpoint pen (with the small Arctic Flower charm)
  • 2011 Arctic Flower Window Ornament (new member and renewal gift)

Warner’s Blue Ribbon Books on Swarovski is diligently working on update information for their 2011 printed Swarovski books. Research for the 2011 Swarovski Value (ERVs) is being conducted this month.  Also, all the 2010 Swarovski crystal introductions are being added to the books, as well as a few 2011 introductions.  Once the spiral books have gone to print, Warner’s will begin updating the online Swarovski Database which is hosted at http://www.wbrbonline.com/ .

This Swarovski Database has over 2800 Swarovski figurines which can be accessed totally FREE.  The free queries have limited information for the items.  To view pictures and complete information, Swarovski collectors can purchase a one year subscription to the database.

Swarovski Database Image
Swarovski Database available at www.wbrbonline.com
One of the nice features about purchasing a subscription is that current Swarovski crystal pictures and statistics are available 24/7 at a collector’s fingertips, at home or anywhere in the world.  The site can be viewed via iPad, laptop, or computer at home.
Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Certificate of Authenticity – How Significant is it?

For the most part, I have addressed the question about the importance of the Swarovski Certificate of Authenticity at the Crystal Exchange America web site.

First and foremost, if the crystal figurine in question is a Swarovski Limited Edition figurine, or a Swarovski Annual Edition, the Certificate of Authenticity is important to retain the highest value, and sell-ability of the figurine.  This is because avid Swarovski Crystal collectors prefer to have ‘the complete package’ when purchasing retired Swarovski.

When the Swarovski figurine in question is not any type of special edition, then Swarovski includes a ‘generic product booklet’ titled ‘certificate’ with the figurine when produced.  Given this type of certificate is generic and interchangeable between products, the significance is lower.  Nonetheless, some Swarovski fanatics will certainly pay extra money when purchasing discontinued Swarovski crystal figurines to ensure they have that ‘complete package’.

Regarding current Swarovski products, the company states that they cannot replace a Swarovski Certificate of Authenticity.  They do recommend that customers retain their receipts for any warranty issues that may arise.

The company has used at least eight different Swarovski certificates since 1976.  The first three have an octagonal shape.  They were used from approximately 1976 to 1988.  From 1988 to 1995, a square white Swarovski certificate was used.  The only round Swarovski certificate was used from 1995 to 2000.   Since 2000, a variety of square certificates have been used, including issues in white, blue, and reddish-orange.

If you have a special edition figurine missing the certificate, Crystal Exchange America has some Swarovski certificates listed on their site.  If you are seeking the Swarovski Certificates more generic in nature, Crystal Exchange America has a few sets listed in the online auctions running for the next 30 days.
Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Foam for Swarovski Cylinder Packaging

Continuing the discussion about Swarovski cylinders and boxes, I am going to share more information about the foam inserts used in Swarovski cylinder packaging.

There are three main types of Swarovski foam that I have seen in cylinders.  Additionally, I have seen stryrofoam inserts used in Swarovski cylinders.

The first type of foam is rolled foam.  It is a single piece of foam that a figurine can be wrapped or rolled in prior to placing it in the cylinder.  It is generally gray in color and about ½” thick.  Being very generic, it can be used for many types of figurines.  I have seen rolled foam used in both gray cylinders, but not in blue cylinders.

The next type of foam is generic molded foam.  It is may be hinged or in two separate pieces.  It has a cutout, generic enough for many types of figurines to fit into.  The foam  is gray or blue in color.

The last type of foam is specific foam created for use by one and only one figurine.  The specific foam was likely created if Swarovski felt that the rolled foam for generic molded foam would not sufficiently protect the Swarovski crystal figurine for shipping and storage.   It is gray or blue in color.

 

For the very oldest Swarovski cylinders, those with the block SC logo on them, I’ve also seen white styrofoam used.  It is in two separate pieces and may also have the block SC logo on it.

If you have a Swarovski figurine missing the packaging, Crystal Exchange America has a lot of empty Swarovski boxes that include appropriate foam and identification label listed on their site.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Lovlots Circus Crystal Figurines

Swarovski crystal fanatics will be excited about the upcoming release of the new Swarovski Lovlots Circus!

Among the new Lovlots Circus crystal figures are: Swarovski Benny Bunny,  Swarovski Jade Dancing Horse (Limited Edition 2011), Swarovski Jasmine Dancing Horse, Swarovski Leo Lion, Swarovski Rolly Monkey, Swarovski Rosalie Dancing Horse,  Swarovski Toby Elephant,  and Swarovski Tony Elephant.

Some of the new Swarovski Lovlots circus characters are very vibrant in color.  Others circus characters have softer coloring.

Pictures of eight Swarovski Lovlots Circus figurines can be found at the Swarovski web site.  The site also states that they should be available in the online shop for purchase in March of 2011.  There is no mention of the price on any of them.

The Swarovski Lovlots Circus is the 4th series of Lovlots figurines.  Other series of Swarovski Lovlots are: Swarovski Gang of Dogs, Swarovski House of Cats, and Swarovski City Park.  Another “unofficial series” are the Lovlots Pioneers which are the very first Lovlots figurines.

If you are looking for retired Swarovski Lovlots, Crystal Exchange America has a large selection. There are figurines from all four series as well as the special limited edition Lovlots.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Boxes – Swarovski Cylinder Packaging

I get many questions about Swarovski boxes and Swarovski cylinders.  So here’s a chance for some explanation on the packaging that Swarovski uses to protect the ‘silver crystal’ figurines during shipping and storage at the store prior to purchase.

The earliest boxes used are gray cylinders with the old Swarovski logo (block SC logo) printed on them.  Many of the gray cylinders had two removable plastic ends, so that the crystal figurines could easily be taken out from the top or bottom of the cylinder.  (Sometimes the fit was snug with the foam, and it takes more access to pull the figurine out.)  Some plastic ends have the block SC stamped into them, and some do not.   I have also seen ‘metal ends’ on cylinders, but very rarely.

Swarovski Box with Block SC Bottom

 

Swarovski Box with Tin Lid and Bottom

The block SC logo was replaced by the Swan logo in 1989, so the gray cylinders were modified to have the Swan logo printed on them.  Initially, these gray cylinders also had two removable plastic ends.   Some plastic ends have the Swarovski swan stamped into them, and some do not.  Later,  one end was modified to a permanent cardboard-like bottom, and access is only available opening the top end of the cylinder.  This modification may have been a money-saving opportunity or perhaps a safety concern for the figurine as the plastic ends do not stay snug on the Swarovski cylinders indefinitely.

Swarovski Swan Box.  Also view of Swan Bottom and Permanent Bottom

Around 2002, Swarovski changed their corporate colors to navy blue.  At this time, the cylinders changed colors again, to navy blue.  The navy blue cylinders have the Swarovski swan printed on them and have access via the top only, as only that end is detachable from the cylinder.

Swarovski Blue Box and Permanent Bottom
I do want to mention that when gray cylinders were used, Swarovski crystal logos, certificate style, and box logos did NOT all “match” across the board on the set.  This is especially true for figurines produced during that cross-over time when the logo changed.  Swarovski did not discard the original boxes, they simply used them until the stock was depleted and then began using the newly designed cylinders.  So, a collector should not be alarmed when retired Swarovski is purchased if this is there is not a 100% match on logos for their crystal figurine, certificate, and packaging.
Crystal Exchange America has a lot of Swarovski empty boxes listed for sale on their site, if you have a Swarovski figurine that needs protecting.
Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Crystal Palace Book – iTunes Free App

I found a FREE app on the iPad that has a preview of, Swarovski Crystal Palace – The Art of Light and Crystal, by teNeuse:  Swarovski iPad App.  This Free eBook, and is available in both German and English versions.  It previews Nadia Swarovski’s design project and includes 25+ pages, music, pictures, and a video clip.

This Swarovski book was released as a hardback book in December, 2010. It is about the Swarovski Crystal Palace that launched in 2002.   In a single sentance summary, the book highlights the Crystal Palace, the architecture and design, the designers, and their philosophies.

The full version (in an eBook) of Swarovski Crystal Palace – The Art of Light and Crystal for the iPad is also available on iTunes.  A promotional price of approximately $20 is valid until February 1, 2011.  It is $5 higher after the promotion ends.

Swarovski Crystal Palace Book

And of course there is a hardback edition of Swarovski Crystal Palace – The Art of Light and Crystal. This Swarovski book has over 200 pages, with over 200 color photographs and over 90 black and white photographs.  Swarovski has promotional information at their web site on the Swarovski Crystal Palace book.  It retails for approximately $95 USD.

So, Swarovski crystal fanatics, this just might be another reason to purchase an iPad!  (Can you tell that I want one!!!)

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Crystal Designers

The Swarovski Designers of crystal figurines are amazing….the natural talent that they possess, the desire to be a part of the process creating the crystal designs, their inspiration.

Swarovski has launched over 2500 figurines under various product lines, including Silver Crystal, Crystal Memories, Trimlite, Paradise, Disney, and others. While many of the figurines are credited as a team design (meaning that a group of people are given credit for the creation), many others are credited directly to a single designer.
I’m presently aware of about 65 designers credited exclusively for creation of figurines.  This list can be found on the RetiredSwarovski.com web site:  Swarovski Designers.   This listing of Swarovski designers was recently updated.  It now also includes links to the designer profiles on Swarovski’s web site so that Swarovski crystal fanatics can get more information about what makes these designers tick.  Swarovski also has a link to a PDF containing all figurines by the designer.

I’m looking forward to seeing the new Swarovski creations for 2011…..kudos to those Swarovski designers with all the talent!

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America