Tag: Swarovski Crystal Fanatics

Swarovski LE Tinkerbell 2008 meet Tinker Bell 2011

Swarovski Tinker Bell (LE 2008), step aside and make room for Swarovski Tinker Bell (2011).  Tinker Bell (2011) is available for purchase at the Swarovski web site, and this is great news for Swarovski fanatics and Disney fanatics alike.
Swarovski Tinkerbell 2008
This new pair of Swarovski Disney characters of Tinker Bell and Peter Pan retail for $300 each.  There is also a title plaque ($55), in the shape of a star, for the duo. The identification number for Swarovski Tinker Bell is 1073747.  The identification number for Swarovski Peter Pan is 1077772.
Swarovski Tinkerbell 2011
While the pictures at the Swarovski web site make this Tinker Bell figurine look rather cute, I do have concerns as to the effects that this new release will have on the value of the Swarovski Limited Edition Tinker Bell that was sold in 2008.
Here are some comparative facts on the Swarovski Tinker Bell, LE 2008 and Tinker Bell, 2011:
Retail price $300 in 2008 (included title plaque).  $300 in 2011.
  • Height4 13/16″ in 2008. 5 1/8″ in 2011.
  • Wings Aurore Boreale in 2008. Crystal Blue Aurore Boreale in 2011.
  • Base.Clear, resembling a waterlily candleholder in 2008. Matte crystal in 2011.
  • Outfit.Clear in 2008. Green Olivine Crystal in 2011.
Since there are now two Swarovski Tinker Bell figurines, Swarovski crystal collectors and Disney collectors have choices when purchasing Tinker Bell.  Collectors should use care if purchasing the 2008 LE Swarovski Tinker Bell.  As there are a number of similarities, the most obvious stand-out feature is the green dress for the 2011 figurine.  Be aware of the differences so that you don’t pay a ‘2008 LE’ price tag for a 2011 figurine with a Peter Pan plaque included.
Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Crystal Fanatics find Rare Swarovski Mouse at Crystal Exchange America

Crystal Exchange America has a very joyous couple of clients who recently purchased a rare Swarovski Mouse. This crystal mouse is a very special figurine that was never sold or marketed by Swarovski.

This particular Swarovski mouse is like no others that I have ever seen.  At the onset of the transaction, the selling client stated that less than 1000 were produced and that it was a gift to some retailers.  The selling client was located in the European community.  So, it sound like it may be a piece of rare Swarovski?  During the sale, I learned that less than 400 were actually made in 2006. It does contain the Swarovski swan logo, but because the mouse was a special family member project, it was never assigned an official Swarovski part number or system number.

Rare Swarovski Mouse Crystal Figurine

 

The mouse is just over 2.5″ long, and features silver whiskers and black ears.  The black tail is about 3″ long and resembles a round shoe lace.  The crystal body reminds me of a bell shape.  It is 1.75″ wide and 1.25″ high at the broadest point.  The face and back end are polished, not faceted like most Swarovski figurines.

This rare Swarovski figurine is documented in the 2011 edition of Warner’s Blue Ribbon Books.  It is in the Silver Crystal Book, located in the Employee chapter.  No Swarovski Value was assigned to the figurine in the book.

This was a terrific find and the Swarovski fanatics who made the purchase are very happy collectors.  I’m thrilled that Crystal Exchange America was able to assist in the transaction to make all parties involved satisfied clients.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Lovlots Circus Crystal Figurines online now

Swarovski fanatics are excited to know that the Swarovski Lovlots Circus figures launched today!  The eight new Swarovski Lovlots can now be purchased at the Swarovski web site.

The following crystal figurines are in the initial launch of the Swarovski Lovlots Circus:

  • Swarovski Jade, limited edition for 2011 – dancing horse.  MSRP $80
  • Swarovski Benny – bunny.  MSRP $55
  • Swarovski Jasmine – dancing horse.  MSRP $245
  • Swarovski Leo– lion.  MSRP $225
  • Swarovski Rolly – monkey.  MSRP $55
  • Swarovski Rosalie – dancing horse.  MSRP $80
  • Swarovski Toby – elephant.  MSRP $110
  • Swarovski Tony – elephant.  MSRP $325

As to be expected from a circus atmosphere, the coloring of the Swarovski Circus Lovlots is exhilarating.  These figurines use new colors that I have not previously seen in Swarovski figurines.  Of course I am saying this based on the product descriptions and pictures on the Swarovski site (since I cannot possible have them in my hands yet).

The Swarovski Lovlots Circus is the 4th series of delightful Lovlots figurines.  The other Swarovski Lovlots series include: Swarovski City Park (launched in 2010), Swarovski House of Cats (launched in 2009), and Swarovski Gang of Dogs (launched in 2008).  Another “unofficial series” are the Lovlots Pioneers (launched in 2006) which are initial group of Lovlots figurines.

If your Swarovski collection is missing a retired Swarovski Lovlots crystal figurine, Crystal Exchange America has a variety on their web site. They have figurines from all four series in addition to the special limited edition Lovlots.

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

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

Swarovski Jade, Lovlots 2011 Limited Edition Crystal Figurine

Swarovski fanatics will be excited about the upcoming release of the new Swarovski Jade, the Lovlots 2011 Limited Edition!

Swarovski Jade is a Dancing Horse, part of the new Swarovski Lovlots Circus series.  Swarovski Jade is a limited edition crystal figurine available only in 2011. A cute photo of Swarovski Jade and more information regarding launch date (March 7, 2011) is available at the Swarovski web site.

Other Swarovski Lovlots Circus crystal figures that go with Jade, the Swarovski dancing horse, are: Swarovski Benny Bunny, Swarovski Jasmine Dancing Horse, Swarovski Leo Lion, Swarovski Rolly Monkey, Swarovski Rosalie Dancing Horse,  Swarovski Toby Elephant,  and Swarovski Tony Elephant.

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 adorable Lovlots figurines.  The other Swarovski Lovlots are series include: Swarovski City Park, Swarovski House of Cats, and Swarovski Gang of Dogs.  Another “unofficial series” are the Lovlots Pioneers which are initial group of Lovlots figurines.
The crystal brand has previously offered Swarovski Limited Editions in the Lovlots series product line:
  • Ziggy, (Woodpecker)  – Swarovski LE from City Park
  • Theo (Cat) – Swarovski LE from House of Cats
  • Violetta (Poodle) – Swarovski LE  from Gang of Dogs

Other special limited edition Swarovski Lovlots include: Shady (Swarovski LE 2006), Pinky Mo (Swarovski LE 2007), Swarovski Soccer Mo (Swarovski LE 2008), Swarovski Flower Mo (Swarovski LE 2009), Swarovski Halloween Mo (Swarovski LE 2009), Swarovski Country Mos (Swarovski LE 2010), Swarovski Glamour Mos (Swarovski LE 2010), and Swarovski Charming Mo (Swarovski LE 2011).  The limited edition year in engraved on the bottom of these Swarovski Lovlots crystal issues.

If your Swarovski collection is missing a retired Swarovski Lovlots figurine, Crystal Exchange America has a large selection available. They have figurines from all four series in addition to the special limited edition Lovlots.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Tinker Bell in 1998, 2008, & 2011

Swarovski crystal fanatics may be eager purchase the newest Tinker Bell in the 2011 Swarovski Peter Pan Collection.  This is definitely exciting news for Disney fanatics too that collect Swarovski crystal figurines.

The crystal brand also produced other Swarovski Tinker Bell figurines.  The Swarovski Tinkber Bell 1998 was the Arribas figurine.  Arribas Tinker Bell is about 3 ¼” tall and has over 280 pave Swarovski stones.  It originally retailed for $325. The Swarovski limited edition Tinker Bell had a maximum production of 10,000 units and was only distributed through the Arribas stores in the Walt Disney theme parks.

The next Swarovski Tinker Bell was in 2008.  The 2008 Swarovski Tinker Bell was a cooperative effort with Disney.  Swarovski Tinker Bell 2008 was a limited edition figurine produced in 2008.  It is nearly 5″ tall and includes a title plaque in the original retail price of $300.  This Swarovski limited edition Tinker Bell is now highly sought after on the secondary market and commands prices of $850 – $1200!

Tinker Bell fanatics have got to take note of all Swarovski Tinker Bell jewelry available in the online store.  Prices on the individual items are $65 – $150.
  • Swarovski Tinker Bell Aurore Boreale Pendant
  • Swarovski Tinker Bell Butterfly Pierced Earrings
  • Swarovski Tinker Bell Long Pendant
  • Swarovski Tinker Bell Star Bracelet
  • Swarovski Tinker Bell Star Pierced Earrings

The 2011 Swarovski Tinker Bell and Swarovski Peter Pan and feature accents in Olivine (green) crystal, with other colorful effects.  The crystal figurines in the Swarovski Tinker Bell / Peter Pan collection can be view on the Swarovski site.  The site does not mention size or price of the crystal figurines in the Peter Pan Collection.

If you are looking for retired Swarovski Tinker Bell, Arribas or Disney figurines, Crystal Exchange America has many available. They have figurines dating back to the 1997 when Swarovski and Arribas worked together to create the first Limited Edition Swarovski Jeweled Mickey Mouse.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America

Swarovski Certificate of Authenticity for Chinese Zodiacs

Recently, I wrote about the Swarovski certificate of authenticity included with Swarovski Crystal figurines. After posting the article, I remembered that the limited edition Chinese Zodiac figurines do indeed include a unique Swarovski certificate of authenticity.

Starting off with some background information, Swarovski has a crystal collection known as the Chinese Zodiac.  These crystal figurines are produced in silver shade crystal.  While there are 12 different animals representing the Chinese astrology, Swarovski presently has only six Chinese Zodiac figurines (under $300):
  • Swarovski Zodiac Dog (2006)
  • Swarovski Zodiac Horse (2002, 2014)
  • Swarovski Zodiac Pig (2007)
  • Swarovski Zodiac Rabbit (2011)
  • Swarovski Zodiac Sheep (2003, 2015)
  • Swarovski Zodiac Tiger (2010)
In the Asian market, the company produced some limited edition Swarovski Chinese Zodiac figurines.  These crystal figurines are different from the six above in that they are:
  • Limited by year of production
  • Crystal golden shine in color (not clear silver shade crystal)
  • Include a special Swarovski Certificate of Authenticity (stating limited edition figurine)

Two golden shadow limited edition Swarovski Chinese Zodiac figurines have been produced to date:

  • Limited Edition Chinese Zodiac Tiger
  • Limited Edition Chinese Zodiac Rabbit

All these Chinese Zodiacs have a fold-out card titled ‘The Chinese Zodiac’.  The information is printed in both Chinese and English.  This is not a Swarovski certificate of authenticity; it is a brochure that discusses the Chinese Zodiac astrology personalities.  It is included with all Chinese Zodiac figurines.  However, the limited edition Chinese Zodiac figurines also have a certificate of authenticity specific to the figurine.

Swarovski Chinese Zodiac fold-out card (included with all Chinese Zodiac figurines)

 

Swarovski Certificate of Authenticity for the Limited Edition Chinese Zodiac Tiger

 

All this being said, in 2011, Swarovski is making two more Chinese Zodiac figurines.  These are in crystal golden shine, but are NOT limited editions. The 2011 releases are much larger and much more expensive (over $850 retail). While I would assume that these Large Chinese Zodiac figurines include ‘The Chinese Zodiac’ fold out card, since I don’t have either of them in my collection, I cannot say for certain.  The 2011 Chinese Zodiac introductions are

  • Chinese Zodiac Large Horse
  • Chinese Zodiac Large Tiger

Since the limited edition Chinese Zodiacs were only available retail market in China, most Swarovski crystal fanatics wanting them were forced to turn to the online auctions or Swarovski secondary market dealers to secure the figurines for their collection.  Crystal Exchange America presently has listings for the limited edition Zodiac Tiger and limited edition Zodiac Rabbit.  No matter who the supplying source is, be sure that your limited edition Chinese Zodiac includes the Swarovski certificate of authenticity for maximum resale value.

Swarovski Article posted by Angie / Crystal Exchange America