Swarovski News: A Swarovski Limited Online Edition 2011 Christmas Set

Swarovski has announced to its SCS members that beginning August 29, residents of 23 select countries will have the opportunity to purchase Swarovski Christmas Set, an online limited edition.

 

Swarovski Christmas Set, Online Limited Edition
Swarovski Christmas Set, Online Limited Edition

So you are wondering what is in the Swarovski Christmas Set?  It consists of the

  • Swarovski Christmas Ornament Home Display, Retail cost $28
  • Swarovski 2011 Annual Edition Ornament, Retail cost $75
  • Swarovski Little Star Ornament, Retail cost $40

What is not mentioned in the announcement is the price for the Online Limited Edition, only that there is a considerable savings.

By now, Swarovski crystal fanatics may have already purchased the 2011 Christmas Ornament, so they might not be interested in a complete set.

It is also worth mentioning that for several weeks now, the 2011 Christmas Ornament has NOT been available for purchase at the Swarovski web site (at least for USA residents).  The Swarovski Christmas Set is also NOT available for purchase at the Swarovski web site.  Speculation is that they are SOLD OUT from the manufacturer.   So if this is the case, you may find this to be great news that you have opportunity to still get the ornament if you are willing to purchase the set, which also includes the little star and stand accessories.

Also, the Swarovski 2011 Ornament is available at the Crystal Exchange America web site: www.CrystalExchange.com .  Simply look in the Christmas and Ornaments category to find the 2011 Swarovski Ornament as well as Swarovski ornaments from prior years!

The Kristall Buzz is always an exceptional source of reliable information on Swarovski figurines and collectibles.  Catch the buzz….check back frequently for the latest in Swarovski News.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Bald Eagle NLE 2011 is available at CrystalExchange.com

The Swarovski Bald Eagle (Numbered Limited Edition in 2011) is a spectacular statuette by Heinz Tabertshofer .  These Bald Eagle figurines have a unique number engraved on the crystal base, and a matching special Swarovski Certificate stating the edition number.  The Swarovski Bald Eagle exceeds 11″ in height.  Its accessories include gloves, brochure, and a locking blue storage case.

This crystal Bald Eagle is a Swarovski NLE, limited to 10,000 units.  It was initially available to SCS members only, but beginning in July, 2011, any Swarovski collector can purchase it in a store or online at the Swarovski site.

The Swarovski Bald Eagle has come with some criticism by Swarovski crystal fanatics.  Many are not sure that they like the colored figurines.  And some are quite skeptical since the last couple of NLEs were not near-immediate sell-outs, instead taking nearly a year to close out inventory (some speculate that they never sold out).  At the MSRP of $3800, my opinion is that you should REALLY like it before making the purchase.

Other SCS Number Limited Edition figurines include:

  • Swarovski Eagle, NLE 1995
  • Swarovski Peacock, NLE 1998
  • Swarovski Wild Horses, NLE 2001
  • Swarovski Bull, NLE 2004
  • Swarovski Elephant, NLE 2006
  • Swarovski Rhinoceros, NLE 2008

If you are wanting to add the Swarovski Bald Eagle to your crystal collection, go to CrystalExchange.com and view the  category Collector Society / SCS, then sub-category Annual and Limited Editions.  The Bald Eagles on the Crystal Exchange America web site are priced under the MSRP of $3800.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovki Steiff Bear Candy, 2011 Limited Edition Teddy Bear

About a week ago, I discovered another limited edition Swarovski – Steiff  Bear that will be on the shelves this fall.  This limited edition teddy bear is the Swarovski Steiff Bear ‘Candy’.

2011 Limited Edition Swarovski Steiff Bear with Candy Cane Pendant
Swarovski Steiff Limited Edition Bear Candy

From the description I found, Swarovski Steiff Candy is a pale green mohair teddy bear. Also called the Sparkle Teddy Bear, Candy’s pendant necklace is the Swarovski Candy Cane ornament. Steiff Bear Candy is a Limited Edition Bear with a maximum production of 1500 units. The Steiff USA web site and some stores in North America are accepting pre-orders for this fuzzy teddy bear. The suggested retail price on the Steiff Swarovski Candy bear is $260.

 

Other 2011 introductions for Limited Edition Swarovski Steiff Bears include:

  • Steiff Sapphire  Limited Edition.
    • Swarovski feature decoration: “Sparkling choker and paws made from Swarovski Elements”
    • Color: Sapphire Blue
    • Identification Number: 036 934
    • Limited Edition of 2000
    • Sold out in the USA (as of 8/2011)
    • Kristall Buzz article on Swarovski Steiff Sapphire Bear
  • Steiff Krystina Limited Edition.
    • Swarovski feature decoration: Sparkling heart choker made from Swarovski Elements
    • Color: Black
    • Identification Number: 663 741
    • Limited Edition for purchase during 2011
    • Available for purchase (as of 8/2011) from the Danbury Mint UK site
    • Kristall Buzz article on Swarovski Steiff Krystina Bear

Check out the Crystal Exchange America web site www.CrystalExchange.com if you are interested to purchase any Swarovski Steiff Bear figurines that are retired. Simply use the search bar and type in “Steiff” for current availability and pricing!

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Trimlite Crystal Champions

Some of the older crystal figurines by Swarovski were produced in the Trimlite product line.  The Swarovski Trimlite product line existed in the 1980’s.  These figurines were usually on the smaller side (under 4″) and included significant gold metal accents.  IF there was any type of Swarovski logo on them, it was the Trimlite “T”, and it was stamped into the metal.

One of the Swarovski Trimlite groups was the “Crystal Champions”.  There were six athlete (some leisure athletes!) crystal figurines in the Crystal Champions.

Swarovski Trimlite Crystal Champions
  1. Trimlite Baseball Player – 52729.  The Baseball Player was produced from 1984 to 1988 and originally retailed for $50.
  2. Trimlite Fisherman – 52730.  The Fisherman was produced from 1985 to 1988 and originally retailed for $50.
  3. Trimlite Golfer –  52727. The Golfer was produced from 1984 to 1988 and originally retailed for $50.
  4. Trimlite Basketball Player – 52725. The Basketball Player was produced from 1984 to 1988 and originally retailed for $50.
  5. Trimlite Skier – 52726. The Skier was produced from 1985 to 1988 and originally retailed for $50.
  6. Trimlite Hockey Player – 52728. The Hockey Player was produced from 1984 to 1988 and originally retailed for $50.

As I mentioned in a previous Trimlite article, the production quality of crystal figurines has vastly changed in the past 3 decades.  It is not unusual to see rough edges or other imperfections on the older crystal because that was likely acceptable standards at the time.  Many serious crystal collectors will not accept damaged crystal figurines, but should be mindful that one considered ‘mint’ at that time will not likely as pure as figures that are produced and sold present day.  And, due to the age of the Trimlite figurines, the gold metal finish has possibly dulled, tarnished, or even chipped off.  Collectors should keep these things in mind when setting their own personal standards of acceptability into their own crystal collection;  do not require quality standards higher than what Swarovski themselves expected in the 1980’s.

Crystal Exchange America presently has 3 of the 6 Trimlite Crystal Champions figurines offered on their site at www.CrystalExchange.com, ranging in price $215 – $325. They can be found in “Vintage Swarovski” category, “Trimlite and Zales” sub-category of the store.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Pen, a Crystalline Ballpoint Pink Hope Pearl Pen for Breast Cancer Awareness

Today I received a product brochure from an authorized Swarovski retailer.  Among the many offerings in it, I noticed the Swarovski Crystalline Ballpoint Pink Hope Pearl Pen for Breast Cancer Awareness.  In the pen description, it states that a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Lilly Ross Breast Cancer Foundation.  The Swarovski system number for this pen is 1079443 and the retail price is $30.  It was originally launched in during Breast Cancer Awareness month (October), 2010.  If you are interested to purchase the Swarovski Breast Cancer Awareness Pen, check out the Crystal Classics web site for availability on this pen.

Our favorite crystal brand presently has 19 different Swarovski ballpoint pens available in the online shoppe.  They also have 5 different Swarovski USB pen issues available.  The Swarovski Pen collection can be viewed in the ‘Stationery’ category of Swarovski’s site.

Among them are some specialty offerings:

  • Swarovski Arctic Ballpoint Pen – available to SCS members only
  • Swarovski Crystalline Ballpoint Pen, Blue Pearl Light Azore –  online exclusive
  • Swarovski Hello Kitty Pen, Kitty Head – new in the Hello Kitty series
  • Swarovski Hello Kitty Pen, Pink Bow – new in the Hello Kitty series

Yet another limited edition Swarovski pen was produced in April, 2011 to commemorate the Royal Wedding of Prince William to Kate Middleton.  With only 2000 produced, it was only available in select retail stores in the UK. We have an article here on the Kristall Buzz about the Swarovski Royal Wedding Pen  The Swarovski Limited Edition Royal Wedding Pen is available at the Crystal Exchange America web site:  www.CrystalExchange.com

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Designer Dominic Schöpf – an artist profile by the Kristall Buzz

The Swarovski brand has employed over 60 designers for their famous crystal figurines.  Of course there are talented people who contribute to these incredible crystal creations, but for the most part, only one person is credited for the bulk of the figurines.

Swarovski Designer Dominic Schöpf
Dominic Schöpf

 

Dominic Schöpf  joined the Swarovski design team in 2005.  He believes “inspiration can be found everywhere” and accordingly, loves to walk enjoying nature, and visiting animals at the zoo.

 

 

 

Swarovski Frech Angelfish by Dominic Schopf
Swarovski French Angelfish

Dominic Schöpf has been credited with seven Swarovski crystal figurines which are found in the Silver Crystal, Lovlots, and Crystal Paradise product lines. The list of designs below is ordered by launch date includes the Swarovski product name, the system number, and launch year.  All these designs are still current and can be found in the online Swarovski shoppe.

  • Swarovski Rabbit Sitting – 905777, 2008
    Product Line: Silver Crystal
  • Swarovski Rabbit Lying – 905778, 2008
    Product Line: Silver Crystal
  • Swarovski Gracy – 1041377, 2010
    Product Line and Group:  Lovlots ‘City Park’
  • Swarovski Sea Horses, Light Topaz – 1033926, 2010
    Product Line: Crystal Paradise
  • Swarovski Butterflyfish, Light Siam – 1040347, 2010
    Product Line: Crystal Paradise
  • Swarovski Emperor Angelfish, Jonquil – 1072590, 2011
    Product Line: Crystal Paradise
  • Swarovski French Angelfish, Jonquil Moroda – 1083776, 2011
    Product Line: Crystal Paradise

Of all the Dominic Schöpf figurines, I like the Swarovski French Angelfish (pictured above) the best. I think the contrast of black and gold on the tropical fish is attractive. Terrific creations Dominic  what designs might we see on the horizon?

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski launches Hello Kitty Video on YouTube

It has been about 6 weeks since Swarovski added the new Hello Kitty merchandise in the online shoppe.  Several days ago, I found an official Swarovski Hello Kitty video on YouTube.

In the short video, the model shows off mostly the Swarovski jewelry offerings.  Most of the Hello Kitty jewelry  in the Swarovski shoppe is in the price range of $70 – $160.  In the video, the model also poses with the Swarovski Hello Kitty Bag that retails for $650.

The video does not give much time to the crystal figurines, as only one of them is shown, and that is at the very end.  The crystal giant is selling 3 different Swarovski Hello Kitty figurines, all which retail just over $200 each.

So if you are a crystal fanatic or Hello Kitty fanatic, you’ll want to check out the Hello Kitty of the Swarovski web site for their newest product line offerings!

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Lovlots – Gang of Dogs in the East End

Swarovski’s colorful and adorable lovlots all live with the ‘Lovlots city’.  The Lovlots city is a friendly and growing community, with districts being added with new Lovlots groups moving in.

One of the popular groups is the Swarovski Gang of Dogs.  The Gang of Dogs quickly took up residency in the ‘East End’.  Referring to the East End, Swarovski

states, “With its narrow urban canyons, this melting pot of different cultures is exactly the right place for creative individuals from all walks of life.”

Swarovski Gang of Dogs in the Lovlots collection

The Swarovski Gang of Dogs was launched in 2008 with 5 crystal dog figurines in the group:

  • (6) Swarovski Peppino.  Peppino is a Bassett Hound designed by Edith Mair.  The Swarovski system number is 935720 and it retails for $75.
  • (2) Swarovski Salvatore.  Salvatore is a Great Dane designed by Edith Mair.  The Swarovski system number is 935721 and it retails for $75.  Salvatore is scheduled to retire in 2011.
  • (3) Swarovski Tomaso.  Tomaso is also a bulldog designed by Stefanie Nederegger.  The Swarovski system number is 935722.  This bulldog retails for $325.  Tomaso is scheduled to retire in 2011.
  • (1) Swarovski Tomasino.  Tomasino is a bulldog designed by Stefanie Nederegger.  The Swarovski system number is 935718.  This bulldog retails for $75.  Tomasino is scheduled to retire in 2011.
  • (4) Swarovski Violetta, limited edition 2008.  Violetta is a lavender poodle designed by Edith Mair.  The Swarovski system number is 935719.  Violetta, being a Swarovski limited edition, was only available in 2008.

In 2011, two new figurines joined the Gang of Dogs:

  • (5) Swarovski Coco. Coco is a little light blue Chiwawa / Chihuahua designed by Edith Mair. The Swarovski system number is 1089200 and it retails for $60.
  • (7) Swarovski Scottie.  Scottie is a Terrier, dark green in color and wears a red collar designed by Edith Mair.  The Swarovski system number is and it retails for $110.

The Swarovski Lovlots East End residents create a charming East End family.  The newest members can definitely be found on the crystal brand’s web site.  The Swarovski Gang of Dogs that are retiring in 2011 or have already retired may be found at the Crystal Exchange America web site www.CrystalExchange.com  in the category of Lovlots & Zodiacs.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Lion Fish – Pretty Crystal vs Poison Critter

Last week, I saw an article on Good Morning America about lionfish that made me think about the Swarovski Lion Fish.

Swarovski Lionfish

 

 

The Swarovski Lion fish I’m accustomed to seeing is a retired crystal figurine.  It was designed by the well-known Martin Zendron.  The Swarovski Lion fish was released in 2002 and retired in 2005.  Swarovski placed the crystal lion fish in the “South Sea” theme group.  The attractive lion fish figurine featured light salmon shiny crystal fins.  The overall size is about 2.5″ in length.  The Swarovski Lion Fish originally retailed for $185 USD and is presently found in online auctions and in the secondary market for $150 – $200.

 

 

 

Natural Lionfish
Natural Lionfish

The poison critter that I am less familiar with is the live and venomous lionfish.  I had no idea they got so big! National Geographic states they are normally about 12″ long!  They have red and white zebra fins and elongated, flashy pectoral fins.  The poison is in the lionfish’s dorsal fins.  The lionfish sting is generally not fatal, but is extremely painful.  Also known as the turkey fish, dragon fish, or scorpion fish, their native area is the central and western Pacific oceans.  As reported on Good Morning America, these are making their way to US waters, and may potentially become “good eats”.

 

 

Hoping that this little bit of information about the poison critter behind the pretty crystal design has been as interesting to the many crystal fanatics as it was to me.  If you are looking have lionfish in  your aquarium (another popular use for the lionfish), check in a tropical fish store.  If you are looking to add the retired  Swarovski Lionfish to your crystal collection, visit the Crystal Exchange America web site in the “Sea Life” category.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Optik Television Series

Being Swarovski crystal collectors, we are on top of new figurine introductions and figurine retirements.  This past spring, we’ve learned more about the Swarovski Aura Perfume venture making them more visible in the health and beauty industry.  Then early in the summer, the news was revealed about the relationship with Sanrio that the crystal giant would be launching a Swarovski Hello Kitty product line in their corporate stores.  So there have been lots of new bonds formed to expand their global presence in other areas.

Swarovski Optik has been around for years as an industry leader in high quality precision long range optics / scopes / binoculars.  Optik has now announced a partnership with Orion Multimedia, a world leader in outdoor adventure programming to produce a new television series “SWAROVSKI OPTIK QUESTS – With the Eyes of a Hawk”.  The series will travel around the globe focusing on those trophy animals in every hunter’s dream.

 

 

 

 

“SWAROVSKI OPTIK QUESTS – With the Eyes of a Hawk” will appear on the Versus network in the fall of 2011, then the episodes will re-air in the spring, 2012 on the Sportsman Channel.

For more on Swarovski Optik, visit the official site www.swarovskioptik.us .  At the web site, one can view a list of other Optik television programming.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America