Swarovski Limited Edition Hare (Rabbit) soon at Swarovski Shop

Swarovski has made its official announcement to SCS members about the Swarovski Limited Edition Hare.  The company informs its Swarovski Club members that the limited edition hare will be available in the Swarovski Online shop only (this means not at store retailers or boutiques).  The planned launch date is April 11, 2011.

The Swarovski Limited Edition Hare appears to be made of smokey quartz (gray) crystal.  Swarovski does not mention size, price, or quantity produced in its online announcement.  They do mention that the Swarovski limited edition hare is a global release, so I take it that there are no exclusions as to who can purchase it (sometimes online-only releases are limited to specific countries).

Swarovski Golden Shadow Hare
Swarovski Golden Shadow Hare

 

There are other Swarovski hare / rabbit figurines in the Swarovski shop if you are a bunny collector:
  • Swarovski Rabbit (Chinese Zodiac)
  • Swarovski Sitting Rabbit
  • Swarovski Lying Rabbit
  • Swarovski Thumper (from Bambi)
  • Swarovski Bella (Lovlots Rabbit)

If you are looking for Retired Swarovski Rabbit figurines, many can be found at the Crystal Exchange America web site. I believe that all the retired Swarovski crystal rabbits are clear crystal figurines.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Limited Edition Ugg Boots, NLE with Crystal Embellishments

Swarovski crystal fanatics and Ugg fanatics, get ready for your Swarovski Limited Edition Ugg Boots!  These are Ugg boots, embellished with Swarovski crystals for several major markets.  The Ugg boot decorations celebrate some famous cities/regions (most of which are in the USA):  London, Miami, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, New York City, and Washington DC.  According to the articles I read, the limited edition Swarovski emblazoned boots retail in the $800 – $900 price range!  And the boots are only available in Ugg stores of the celebrated cities.

Ugg Boots embellished with Swarovski crystal stones

The New York City grey boots commemorate the New York skyline with the Empire State building in Swarovski stones.  The United Kingdom version shows a crown in Swarovski crystals.  There is a Union Jack version as well for the United Kingdom, that appears to be decorated with clear and red Swarovski crystal stones.  The Miami, Florida Ugg boots are white, decorated with numerous colors.  Pink flamingos and palm trees are obvious icons for these boots.  The Los Angeles, California Ugg boots are black.  The design appears to focus on the nightlife of the city and nearby Hollywood, featuring red and clear Swarovski stones.  The Washington DC / Georgetown Ugg boots are naturally decorated with traditional red, white, and blue Swarovski stones, with our grand flag design: stars and stripes forever.  The flag is on a grey-colored Ugg boot.  The Las Vegas, Nevada Ugg boots appear to be dark brown and symbolic of the gambling in the city.  Aces, poker chips, and dice are incorporated into this city design.

One site I read indicated that there were 100 pairs created for each city, and that each pair was numbered to ensure authenticity.  I supposed that makes them Swarovski NLE!  I did not find any mention of the release date. There is a theory that the team effort between Ugg and Swarovski will extend to other cities, as if these cities are test-market areas.

I like my Ugg boots and slippers are very comfy.  However, I cannot see myself spending a small fortune on footwear embellished with crystal unless I plan to display them right next to my other Limited Edition Swarovski figurines in the cabinet!

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski HTF Crystal Acronym

Here is another acronym used in advertising Swarovski crystal that is offered for sale.  While the many experienced Swarovski Crystal collectors understand the frequently used acronyms, there are still a lot of people buying and selling Swarovski who do not have knowledge of the acronyms or can be mislead by improper use of the acronym.  So, I thought I’d do my best to cover another acronym and offer cautions on the use of it.

Swarovski HTF – Swarovski Hard-To-Find.  This acronym has potential…that is when it is not mis-used.  ‘Rare’ would be the most difficult among Swarovski crystal items to locate.  ‘Hard to Find’ would be next in line.  Rare and Hard-To-Find figurines would be the most sought after Swarovski pieces, and likely command the highest prices.

The issue with Swarovski HTF is that many times auction sellers use it to get traffic to their auction items or pump up the price, even when the item is not Hard-To-Find.  Take a look at the auctions using this link:

Swarovski HTF crystal figurines in an online auction

As of the posting of this article, there are 68 items in the search results.  I think only 5 or 6 of Swarovski figurines could really be classified as Hard-To-Find, and that is if you are generous with the term.  Over 40 of the items in the search results are from the same seller who uses both Rare and Hard-To-Find in the auction titles.  And honestly, many of his items are ETF easy-to-find.  So here is a prime example of the term Swarovski HTF being used to hopefully generate leads to his auction as the items are indeed not rare or hard to find.

If a Swarovski collector is wondering about the accuracy on the rarity of the item, a google search can be performed on the item name.  If there are a lot of hits with stores that have it in stock, it is certainly not rare or hard to find.  An auction search could be performed as well to see how many are available for sale at the moment and do a price comparison at the same time.

In conclusion, do some of your own investigation before leaping to bid or buy it now because you see Swarovski HTF used in an auction title or description.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

2011 Swarovski Crystal Book is hot off the press!

I have good news for Swarovski collectors…the Warner’s Blue Ribbon Book on Swarovski: Beyond Silver Crystal Swarovski catalog is now available!

This Swarovski catalog is in its 15th year of publication.   Tom and Jane Warner, the book authors, are true Swarovski collectors and annually publish new Swarovski books each year.

Swarovski 2011 Book featuring non-silver-crystal figurines

The Swarovski Beyond Silver Crystal catalog contains Swarovski pictures and detailed information about Swarovski crystal figurines across many company product lines for the past 35 years! It is the photos in the book, along with dimensions and other facts that allow for accurate Swarovski identification to properly insure a Swarovski collection.  The Swarovski product lines or groupings include in the Beyond Silver Crystal book are:  Swarovski Crystal Moments, Swarovski Myriad, Swarovski Chinese Zodiacs, Swarovski Soulmates, Swarovski Home Accessories, Daniel Swarovski Home Accessories, Daniel Swarovski Masterpiece, Julia’s World, Perfumes, Paperweights, Swarovski Trimlite, Swarovski Crystal Signatures, Swarovski Christmas Memories, Crystal Scents, Swarovski CrystalograMs, Arribas Creations, and Swarovski Paradise. That’s nearly 1700 Swarovski Crystal items in the Beyond Silver Crystal Book.

The primary reasons for publishing the Swarovski book annually are to:
  • Include previous year Swarovski crystal introductions and retirements
  • Revise Swarovski Value (Swarovski ERV in the publication) to 2011 standards

For the 2011 Swarovski catalog, approximately 75 new crystal figurines have been added from the 2010 edition.  Approximately 35 retirements are now newly retired from the 2010 edition. Investigation for 2011 Swarovski ERV was completed in January 2011, so the determined Swarovski Value for the retired Swarovski figurines for the 2011 edition is fresh.

Swarovski collectors who have never purchased the book can find contact information for the authors at the Warner’s Blue Ribbon Book web site http://www.wbrb.com/ (on the About Us tab) to determine which book is best for the collector or if the collectors should purchase the complete book set.  For loyal Swarovski collections who know exactly what they need, the Warner’s Blue Ribbon Book on Swarovski: Beyond Silver Crystal, can be placed at Warner’s web site or http://www.crystalexchange.com/swarovski-c-PUB.html.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Crystal Catalogue – 2011 Edition Now Available

I have good news for Swarovski collectors..the Warner’s Blue Ribbon Book on Swarovski Silver Crystal Swarovski catalogue is now available!

This Swarovski catalogue is in its 18th year of publication.   Tom and Jane Warner, the book authors, are true Swarovski collectors and annually publish new Swarovski books each year.

The Swarovski silver crystal catalogue contains photos and detailed information about Swarovski SCS crystal figurines and Silver Crystal product releases (as well as product variations on those releases) for the past 35 years! That’s nearly 1300 Swarovski Crystal items in the Silver Crystal Book.

Warner’s Blue Ribbon Book on Swarovski, 2011 Catalogue release
There are two main reasons for publishing the Swarovski book annually:
  • Include prior year Swarovski introductions and retirements
  • Update Swarovski Value (Swarovski ERV in the publication)

For the 2011 Swarovski catalogue, there are approximately 50 new crystal figurines from the 2010 edition.  There are approximately 50 retirements from the 2010 edition.

Research for the 2011 Swarovski catalogue was performed in January 2011, so the determined Swarovski ERV values for the retired Swarovski figurines for the 2011 edition is hot off the press.

For Swarovski fanatics ready to purchase the newest, most accurate information, the Warner’s Blue Ribbon Book on Swarovski Silver Crystal, the order can be placed at http://www.wbrb.com/ or http://www.crystalexchange.com/swarovski-c-PUB.htm

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski ERV CRV Crystal Value Acronyms

Here are more acronyms used in advertising Swarovski crystal that is offered for sale.  While the many experienced Swarovski Crystal collectors understand the frequently used acronyms, there are still a lot of people buying and selling Swarovski who do not have knowledge of the acronyms or can be mislead by improper use of the acronym.  So, I thought I’d do my best to cover a few more acronyms and offer cautions on the use of them.

Swarovski CRV – Swarovski Current Replacement Value.  The term CRV was used in Dean Genth’s Swarovski book in 2004. I have not seen it used in publications since.  The basis of his research was not disclosed in the book.  Auction sellers using CRV in an auction may be using very dated values.

Swarovski ERV – Swarovski Estimated Replacement Value.  Swarovski ERV originated in a reputable Swarovski Book, Warner’s Blue Ribbon Books on Swarovski.  The intended definition and use of the term today is ‘Swarovski value for insurance purposes’.  Swarovski ERV is a recommendation for insurance value based on professional research performed in the past 12 months.  If a Swarovski collector damages or has a figurine stolen, it is likely that the collector can replace the figurine with a MINT one at a cost of the Swarovski ERV or slightly less.

So many times Swarovski ERV is mis-used in the online auctions.  Sellers may not honestly know what the acronym ERV stands for because they have not read the Warner’s Blue Ribbon Book preface.   Or perhaps, their auction data was based on another erroneous auction description.  Or, perhaps, the seller has simply manipulated the acronym to imply Estimated Retail Value, thus inflating the value of the crystal figurine for less knowledgeable bidders.  No matter what the case, the important fact to realize is that Swarovski ERV is an insurance value, not a selling value.  No seller should ever expect a Swarovski figurine to sell for a price near the Swarovski ERV.  If the item is sold using a professional brokerage service, the seller will not be able to collect the Swarovski ERV when a transaction for the Swarovski crystal collectible is completed, since ERV is a suggested insurance value, not a selling price.

Another way the Swarovski ERV is mis-used is when a seller cites an outdated ERV in the auction.  It is a natural assumption that a Swarovski value increases over the years.  For many years this was true, but this has not been the case in recent years.  So when an auction seller quotes an ERV from 2005 and then states that the value is on the rise, this is sort of like a trap to a less knowledgeable buyer.  Sadly, in all likelihood, the 2011 ERV is less than the 2005 ERV.

In conclusion, Swarovski Value can have a number of definitions….selling price, insurance replacement value, or a sentimental value.  Be careful not to get caught up with a seller’s version of value when the term Swarovski ERV or Swarovski CRV is used in the auction description.  Thoroughly review the auction description.  Do research when deciding your maximum price:  check recently sold items and brokerage sites.  Know the seller’s return policy.  When the transaction is over, the buyer should be happy with outcome.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Bald Eagle NLE 2011 for SCS

Swarovski stores are actively contacting their SCS customers about placing an order for the Swarvoski NLE  2011 – the Swarovski Bald Eagle.

Swarovski Limited Edition Bald Eagle – SCS NLE for 2011

A store in Ohio has added the Swarovski Bald Eagle to their web site Limited Edition Bald Eagle.

This video on the Swarovski Bald Eagle is on YouTube:

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From what we have heard, an SCS member may purchase more than one Swarovski Bald Eagle.  We’ve also heard that about 1/3 of the 10,000 Bald Eagles are allocated to SCS members in the USA.  Coming from our customers, a number of Swarovski members have already declined to purchase as they prefer a clear crystal limited edition figurine.

The Swarovski Bald Eagle is the seventh Swarovski Numbered Limited Edition (of 10,000) issued by Swarovski since 1995.  Other Swarovski NLE include:

So, if you are highly interested to add the Swarovski Crystal Bald Eagle to your collection, you may wish to contact your favorite retailer real soon, ready with your SCS valid membership number, so that your order can be placed for the crystal figurine.  As Swarovski has done in the past with other NLE, after a short period of time, the Swarovski Bald Eagles will be offered online to non-SCS members.
Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Rare Swarovski Crystal Centrotavola (NLE) sold by Crystal Exchange America

The Swarovski Centrotavola Centerpiece is a rare and unique sculpture that was in the Daniel Swarovski product line.  So you are wondering just how rare it is?  Swarovski produced only 250 of them from 1989 to 1997.  The Centrotavola bowl is a Swarovski NLE. Each of the Centrotavola centerpiece bowls had a numbered certificate (matches the number engraved on the bowl) accompanying the rare figurine.  The original MSRP of the figurine was $5275.

Swarovski Centrotavola Centerpiece sitting on Swarovski Box

The Swarovski artist credited with the design is Ettore Sottsass.  The Swarovski part number is 9980 000 005.  The Swarovski system number is 155 459.  This magnificent centerpiece measures 10″ in diameter.
There are surprising factors in the sale the length of time listed and the final selling price.  I’d like to think that a Swarovski limited edition figurine of 250 units would definitely hold the original retail price.  And that a Swarovski limited edition figurine of 250 units would have a faster turnaround with respect to how quickly it sells after it is listed on the web site.

This rare Swarovski crystal Centrotavola was listed  on the Crystal Exchange America web site (http://www.crystalexchange.com/) nearly 2 ½ years prior to selling.  Not only that, the list price when it sold was about 33% LESS than the original MSRP.  The Centrotavola bowl was in MINT condition with all original packaging, so condition, certificate, and box did not play a part in the final price.

Swarovski Certificate, engraved number, and engraved designer signature

So what does this mean to Swarovski fanatics?  I believe there are a lot of factors that contribute to whether or not retired Swarovski sells quickly and the final selling price of the figurines.  In this case, I think the biggest factors are the economy and the overall appeal to the collector.  The economy is still weaker, contributing to the overall trading prices on ALL retired Swarovski collectibles.  Since our beautiful Swarovski crystal is not a necessity, people and collectors are spending less money from their expendable budget on it.  While the Centrotavola is certainly a magnificent Swarovski figurine, I think that many collectors still prefer animal-type figurines and sculptures.   My company, Crystal Exchange America, has a much higher turnover rate on animals or cute figurines, than on functional items, like candleholders, bowls, or more artsy-type productions from Swarovski.

My strong recommendation is to purchase the Swarovski crystal figurines that a collector personally likes and will get enjoyment out of displaying.  I used to purchase more Swarovski than I do now.mostly due to the economy and limitations on my budget.  So, it is more important than ever for me to pick my favorite Swarovski figurines when I make that decision to purchase.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Crystal Paradise – 2011 Releases

Swarovski fanatics will be excited about the upcoming release of the new colorful Swarovski Paradise figurines.

In 2000, Swarovski launched the first Paradise figurines. They were insects:  Swarovski Paradise Bees / Bumblebees, Swarovski Paradise Beetles, Swarovski Paradise Butterflies, Swarovski Paradise Dragonflies, Swarovski Paradise Flies, Swarovski Paradise Grasshoppers, & Swarovski Paradise Scarabs.  In 2004, Swarovski launched the Paradise ‘Exotic Fish and South Sea’.  In 2006, Swarovski launched the Paradise ‘Exotic Flowers’.In 2011, the theme is one of Underwater Beauty.  Swarovski Paradise figurines in the new collection include:
  • Swarovski Sea Goldies, Topaz
  • Swarovski Pearl Oyster, Vintage Rose
  • Swarovski French Angelfish, Jonquil Moroda
  • Swarovski Emperor Angelfish, Jonquil
From the four items that will be available in March, I like the Swarovski French Angelfish the best.  This new group of Swarovski Paradise figurines reminds me of the Swarovski ‘South Sea’ theme group.There is a slide show with attractive pictures of the new Swarovski Paradise figurines on the official Swarovski web site.

If your Swarovski collection is missing a retired Swarovski Paradise figurine, Crystal Exchange America has a large selection available.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski AE Ornaments – Crystal Hearts for Valentine’s Day

When Swarovski crystal collectors mention Swarovski AE Ornaments, we almost immediately think of Christmas ornaments, the Swarovski Star Ornaments and the Swarovski Snowflake Ornaments.  However, these are not the only AE (Annual Edition) ornaments done by Swarovski.

The crystal brand also made Swarovski Crystal AE Heart Ornaments from 2004 – 2008.
  • Swarovski AE 2004 Heart Ornament – This crystal heart is a clear heart with a red heart in the center.  The clear heart is laser etched with 2004.
  • Swarovski AE 2005 Heart Ornament – This crystal heart is opposite of the 2004 ornament.  It is a read heart with a clear heart in the center.  The red heart is laser etched with 2005.
  • Swarovski AE 2006 Heart Ornament – This crystal heart is clear (like the 2004 heart), but it has a pink heart in the center.  The clear heart is laser etched with 2006.
  • Swarovski AE 2007 Heart Ornament – This crystal heart is much different than those from 2004 – 2006.  It is a peach-colored heart and it laser etched with 2007.  This Swarovski AE heart was used on the Swarovski Steiff Bear ‘Jewels’ in 2007.
  • Swarovski AE 2008 Heart Ornament – This crystal heart is rosaline (pink) with a beaded loop below the heart.  It is laser etched with 2008.
Swarovski AE Heart Ornament from 2005

I found the retired Swarovski Heart Ornaments 2005 – 2008 on ebay for Swarovski collectors looking for them.   There is no implied endorsement on any of the sellers, the link is for quick access to the items.

Crystal Exchange America has the retired 2004 AE Heart Swarovski Ornaments on their web site.  It is listed in the ‘Christmas & Ornaments’ category of the store.  Happy Valentine’s Day to Swarovski fanatics around the world!

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America