Jul 042012
 

Swarovski often uses a standard crystal component or design and allows for companies to have it customized to sell or use as a company incentive or award.  We have seen many Swarovski ball paperweights, keyrings, hexagons and so forth with specialized company names or logos.  Common examples are the 40mm colored paperweights seen with the Warner’s Blue Ribbon Book logo, Crystal Affair colored paperweights, and Crystal Exchange America keyrings.

In 2011, I saw some of the more unique contemporary designs implemented for the same use.  These designs were called the Swarovski Crystal Peak figurines.  The Crystal Peak is available in 2 different sizes:

The Swarovski Crystal peak gifts have a topaz-like colored stone, affixed to dark-brownish granite pillars.  The Crystal Peak figurines that I have personally seen are in a traditional blue Swarovski Box do have the Swan logo on them.



Kristall Buzz wants to take this opportunity to celebrate July 4th with some fireworks, over the Swarovski Crystal Peak of course.  So Happy July 4th to Swarovski crystal fanatics across the USA!



Sep 052011
 

Swarovski has uploaded a video to YouTube highlighting the re-opening of Swarovski Innsbruck  nearly 2 weeks ago.  According to the Swarovski video description, “A dazzlingly revamped SWAROVSKI INNSBRUCK reopened its doors on August 26. Located in the center of town in a historic building, the new store is a radiant modern shopping destination. Around four hundred guests assembled at an exclusive opening gala to celebrate the occasion.”



One thing I did notice in the video, were the “crystal-decorated” bugs.  I didn’t know what to make of that, but the source articles below mention presenting the complexity of the world through the motif of a “fruit fly” and an oscillation between science and art.

I found so much information about sightseeing, the community, the renovation, that trying to summarize in a short post would not be possible.  So instead, I’m going to provide a few of the best-quality links for our Swarovski Kristall Buzz readers to follow:

Enjoy the highlights from the video on the Swarovski Innsbruck reopening!



Aug 232011
 

The Kristall Buzz, a blog on Swarovski Crystal, has launched its fourth video on YouTube!  This video highlights Swarovski Tiger crystal figurines along with some beautiful and exotic wild cats. Take a look!

Swarovski SCS Tiger – This Swarovski Tiger was the Annual Edition crystal figurine available exclusively to SCS members in 2010.  It was the third crystal figurine in the series “Endangered Wildlife”.  The Swarovski identification numbers are 9100000145 / 1003148.  The Swarovski SCS Tiger retailed for $450 in 2010.  The primary color used for the figurine was ‘golden shine’.  The Swarovski SCS Tiger measures approximately 7.25″ in length.

Swarovski SCS Tiger Cub, Sitting – This Swarovski tiger cub was available to SCS members in 2010 and was a very complimentary figurine to the SCS tiger.  The Swarovski identification numbers are 9100000166 / 1016678.  It retailed for $180 in 2010.  Like the SCS tiger, the color is ‘golden shine’.  The Swarovski SCS Tiger cub measures approximately 3.12″ in length.

Swarovski SCS Tiger Cub, Standing  – This Swarovski tiger cub was available to SCS members in 2010 and is a gorgeous addition to display with the  SCS tiger.  The Swarovski identification numbers are 9100000166 / 1016678 AND  9100000165 / 1016677 depending on whether it was purchased or provided as a loyalty gift by the crystal brand for purchasing the entire “Endangered Wildlife” trilogy using the same SCS number for all three pieces.  The non-gift figurine retailed for $180 in 2010.  Like the SCS tiger, the color is ‘golden shine’.  The Swarovski SCS Tiger cub measures nearly 3.5″ in length.

Swarovski Chinese Zodiac Tiger – This Swarovski tiger is part of the crystal brand’s “Chinese Zodiac” series.  The identification numbers are 9100000135 / 1002980.  The official color is silver shade crystal.  It is about 3.25″ long.  This is the only tiger in the video that is presently available on the Swarovski web site, and it retails for $300.

Swarovski Limited Edition Chinese Zodiac Tiger – This Swarovski  tiger is identical to the zodiac tiger described above, except that the color is in golden shine.   The identification numbers for this Swarovski limited edition figurine are 9200000269 / 1016810.  It was only available in China from 2009 – 2010.

Swarovski Tiger Paperweight – This Swarovski Tiger is silver in color, resting upon a crystal ball.  This tiger was in the Swarovski Trimlite group “Crystal Sculptures”.  Swarovski used unique product identification numbers to represent the metal color of the tiger….72116 is the number for the gold tiger and 72117 is the number for the pewter tiger This figurine was available 1983 through 1986 at a retail price of $95.  This Swarovski tiger is very difficult to find and will likely command prices of $800 – $1200 dollars. No Trimlite mark was found on the figurine shown in the video.

Elizabeth Adamer was credited with the design for all the Swarovski SCS tigers.   They truly look like a nice feline family.

Both the Swarovski Zodiac tiger figurines have a clear crystal base that is engraved matt finish name in English and Chinese seal script.

If you are a feline fanatic or collect Swarovski wild cats, many of these Swarovski tiger figurines can be found in the Crystal Exchange America store:   www.CrystalExchange.com .  Use the search box in the store and type in “tiger” (singular form, not plural) to  view the crystal figurines presently available with pricing.



Aug 112011
 

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!



Jul 102011
 

The Kristall Buzz, a blog on Swarovski Crystal, has launched its third YouTube video, this time featuring the Swarovski Lovlots in a different location. Take a look!

Mr McLovlots initially has 5 cows, 2 ducks, 3 sheep, and then adds 5 more cows.  His first Swarovski cow family features:

Mr McLovlots’ duck family consists of

  • Swarovski Lily and Luke, introduced 2009 and still current

Mr McLovlots’ sheep family includes

  • Swarovski Shady, Limited Edition 2006
  • Swarovski Y2B, introduced 2006 and retires 2011

And in the end, Mr McLovlots adds a 2nd cow family to his farm herd:

The Swarovski figurines: Missy Mo and Y2B are two of the crystal figurines from the Swarovski Lovlots Pioneers.  They are both clear crystal collectibles.

Lily and Luke are full-color members of the Swarovski City Park group.

Shady (sheep) and the following Swarovski Cows: Pinky Mo, Soccer Mo, Flower Mo, Halloween Mo, Country Mos, Glamour Mos, and Sunshine Mo are all Swarovski Lovlots Special Editions.  These Swarovski Limited Editions are/were only produced for a specific calendar year.

The Swarovski designer Edith Mair is credited for all the cute Swarovski crystal creations cast in the Swarovski McLovLots farm video.

If you are creating your own Swarovski farm, nearly all the featured cast members are available in the Crystal Exchange America store:   www.CrystalExchange.com .  Simply go to the ‘Limited Edition Swarovski’ or ‘Lovlots & Zodiacs’ category to see the crystal pieces presently available with current pricing.



Jun 242011
 

KristallBuzz has recently completed Swarovski Crystal Bees Video buzzing around to “Flight of the Bumblebee”.   I’m amazed by all the unique variations of this well-known classical piece and how different musicians can add their special touches to the music.

I was surprised when I found that the song is even used setting and breaking “Guinness World Records” for being the fastest violinist!

May, 2008 David Garrett – 1 minute and 6.56 seconds.  David Garrett on YouTube
December, 2008 David Garrett – 1 minute and 5.26 seconds. David Garrett on YouTube

Then, just shy of 2 years later, Ben Lee is successfully setting a new world record using the Rare Swarovski Violin.

November, 2010 Ben Lee of FUSE – 58.51 seconds

January, 2011 Ben Lee of FUSE – 56.07 seconds. Feeling ambitious, Ben Lee does it again!

Congratulations to Ben Lee and FUSE for such an terrific accomplishment…keep up the great work!



Jun 152011
 

The Kristall Buzz, a Blog on Swarovski Crystal, has launched a brief YouTube video starring two Swarovski crystal figurines, both Swarovski Bee crystal figurines! Take a look!

The first Swarovski Bee in the video is the Crystal In Flight Rhodium Bee. This rare Swarovski Rhodium Bee was introduced in 1985 and retired in 1986. This Swarovski Bee was available only in the North American market: USA only (not in Canada like the Gold Bee). During its 2 year production time, it retailed for $200. On the secondary market, a Swarovski MIB Rhodium Bee presently sells in the range of $1500 – $2000.

The second Swarovski bee in the video is the Crystal In Flight Gold Bee . The Gold Bee was introduced in 1985 and retired in 1988. This Swarovski Bee was available only in the North American market : USA and Canada only. During its 4 year production time, it retailed for $230. On the secondary market, in MINT condition with original box (Swarovski MIB), it presently sells $650 – $850.

Both Swarovski Bees were produced with the old Swarovski logo, the Block SC logo. Both have been noticed to have different types of supporting feet underneath the flat disk holding the flower petals in place. The feet may be smooth, faceted, or molded. The different feet do not seem to impact the selling prices of these crystal figurines on the secondary market.

Both these Swarovski crystal bees are getting harder to find, but can be found on the Crystal Exchange America web site in the “Insects” category!



Jun 022011
 

Liza Schmidt of Germany was the lucky winner of the Swarovski crystal video contest that ended just last week.  Her video is focused on the Swarovski Nirvana Ring and the possible powers it may hold.

Here are the winner’s thoughts and comments, taken directly from Swarovski’s social media page:

The idea for the video came from her husband after they saw a green Nirvana ring for the first time. According to Liza “we were really inspired by the power the ring has to transform the mood of the wearer when it is placed on the finger. It really can send you to a far-away place like Nirvana or heaven. For each person heaven is a special place and for this nomadic Buddah in the video we thought that heaven would be opposite of his daily life. Although in the end he decided to remain in the desert, the Nirvana ring still holds the power to transform. We had so much fun making this video and we are delighted it was chosen as the winner!”

Congratulations to Liza! Her Swarovski Nirvana Ring video will air at the Swarovski store on Times Square in NY.  Liza also wins a round trip package to Milan which includes Swarovski VIP tickets to the fashion event of the year.  And there’s more….Liza will receive (probably alot of ) Swarovski jewelry and time with (an unnamed) celebrity guest!  Well done Liza!  Looking forward to your next video adventure!



May 232011
 

The Kristall Buzz, a Blog on Swarovski Crystal, has launched a short video on YouTube with some unusual characters cast.  The characters are retired and discontinued Swarovski crystal figurines!  Have a watch!

The sole chick in the video is the Swarovski Mini Chicken. Introduced in 1979 and retired in 1988, the mini chicken is THE very origin of the collection which eventually lead to the popular Swarovski book publications: Warner’s Blue Ribbon Books on Swarovski.

The next four loveable characters are Swarovski Happy Ducks, all of which are limited edition figurines.The Swarovski Pink Duck (with the ribbon) was a limited edition duck produced for Breast Cancer Awareness.  It was only available to certain countries when it was produced in 2010.  This limited edition pink duck is stamped “2010” with the Swarovski swan logo on the underside of the figurine.  A portion of the proceeds were to benefit Breast Cancer Research.

The Swarovski Pink Duck (without the ribbon) was a limited edition duck produced for the Kids Earth fund.  When it was available in 2010, it could only be found in Japan.  This limited edition pink duck is stamped “2010” with the Swarovski swan logo on the underside of the figurine.

While the final 2 performers may look like Swarovski Happy Prince and Swarovski Happy Princess, they are not.  These limited edition ducks are the Swarovski Royal Wedding Happy Ducks.  This pair of ducks is packaged in a single blue navy box.  Each duck has the Swarovski Swan logo underneath.  However, on the ducks’ back, there are additional markings to signify a special event.  The commemorative event was the Royal Wedding of Prince William to Kate Middleton.  On the back of the Prince Royal Wedding Duck is the royal wedding date: 29 April, 2011.  On the back of the Princess Royal Wedding Duck is a pair of wedding rings.  Watch in the video, and you will see these special markings highlighted.  These Happy Ducks were limited to a production of 3000 pairs and were only available at select Swarovski crystal retailers in the UK.

All these Swarovski Limited Editions can be found on the Crystal Exchange America web site in the “Limited Edition Swarovski” category!



May 052011
 

In the past, I have posted links to Swarovski Videos on YouTube.  Still not posted to the KristallBuzz was the Swarovski City Park Video with the cartoonish Lovlots critters.  The Swarovski Lovlots City Park group was released in 2010.  Swarovski City Park critters include:

  • Swarovski Bella (Rabbit)
  • Swarovski Duke (Duck)
  • Swarovski Gracy (Squirrel)
  • Swarovski Lily & Luke (Ducks)
  • Swarovski Max (Fox)
  • Swarovski Nick (Hedgehog) – retiring 2011
  • Swarovski Romeo (Frog)
  • Swarovski Spike (Hedgehog) – retiring 2011
  • Swarovski Ted (Bear)
  • Swarovski Ziggy, Limited Edition (Woodpecker) – retired in 2010

Crystal Exchange America has a lot of information on all the Swarovski Lovlots groups on their site.
They also have many of the retired Swarovski Crystal Lovlots available for purchase on their web site in the ‘Lovlots and Zodiac’ category: http://www.crystalexchange.com/c-ZOD.html .



Apr 252011
 

Swarovski has posted a short video of the Swarovski Mini Cooper on YouTube.  In it, you see the white Mini Cooper blinged out with big Swarovski crystal swans on all sides of the car.  The top of the Mini Cooper is a British flag.

The crystal brand included several consumer interviews during the video clip, and all were happy to take away a complimentary Swarovski Wedding Pen.  The look-alike royal couple posed for photos with the car and attending patrons.

This is not the first Mini Cooper to be embellished with Swarovski crystals.  I found several articles about a Swarovski Mini Cooper decorated in 2008, which had been dubbed an ‘American Icon’.  Utilizing over 1,000,000 Swarovski stones, this Swarovski Mini Cooper features pictures of scenery only found in USA, such as: The Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, The White House, The American Flag and Eagle, and more.  This other Swarovski Mini Cooper has toured the USA and been displayed in museums in the past.



Apr 182011
 

Yesterday, I mentioned that I used to spend weekends stoning dance costumes with Swarovski crystal stones.  Today, I happened upon a video made by Swarovski that shows the rhinestones on dance costumes.

While this is completely different from the dance competition scene, use your imagination to see how a simple costume can be transformed into an extraordinary costume using the finest Swarovski Crystal components for amazing, sparkling stage presence in a highly charged environment of dancers!



Apr 052011
 

Over the last couple months, I’ve posted a few times about a new perfume called Aura by Swarovski:

Yesterday, I found a video on YouTube about the making of the Swarovski Aura Video.

Swarovski wrote this with the video upload:

It is early morning. Day is dawning, nature is bathed in the glow of sunrise. A woman of incomparable, shimmering beauty is struck by the first rays of light. Gracefully, she rises and moves towards the light.

Clasped in her hand is a glimmering make-up jewel, which she holds like a treasure. The bottle appears as a column of pure light, and the crystal that crowns it becomes the source of burgeoning, luminous sensation.
Symbolizing the awakening senses, continually emerging beauty and timeless femininity, the film “Aura by Swarovski” is unforgettable, because it strikes a deep emotional cord.

In all cultures, sunrise bears a message of great hope: each day, life is reborn, and anything becomes possible. In the background, mountains evoke Swarovski’s roots in the Tyrol.

According to Swarovski in their Aura by Swarovski cover story, Aura is available in select boutiques in Europe and Asia.  While it will eventually be available in USA, no time frame was provided.

Swarovski’s involvement in the fashion industry has been obvious for years with their trendy jewelry lines.  It is not at all surprising to find them reviving interest with perfume and cosmetics.

The crystal brand was previously involved with other limited edition Swarovski perfume in the past two decades:

  • Swarovski Tresor, limited editions in 1994, 1995-96, and 1997.
  • Swarovski Yves St Laurent, limited editions in 1996 and 1998.
  • Swarovski Jewel Perfume, limited edition in 1997.
  • Swarovski Roma in 1997 with limited distribution in the European community.
  • Swarovski Madame Gres (three different bottles), limited editions in 2003.

If you are a Swarovski collector who enjoys Swarovski Perfume bottle containers, Crystal Exchange America does have some available.



Mar 022011
 
Swarovski and Clarins entered into a licensing agreement in 2008, and Swarovski Aura is the first scent to launch. I recently found a publicity video for Swarovski Aura on YouTube:
The Swarovski Aura bottles are made of glass and metal, topped with a single faceted asymmetrical Swarovski crystal.  The Swarovski Aura perfume inside the glass bottle is pink in color.  It appears that the bottle will be available in 2 different sizes with refill bottles of the perfume available.

It is reported that Swarovski Aura should be available in some 500 Swarovski stores when the perfume is fully launched at all channels.

In 2006, Swarovski and Clarins previously worked together commemorating fragrance Angel’s 15th anniversary.
The crystal brand company has created other limited edition Swarovski perfume bottles in the past.
  • Swarovski Tresor in 1994, 1995-96, and 1997, limited edition of 5,000 or 10,000.
  • Swarovski Yves St Laurent in 1996 and 1998, limited edition of less than 6300 issues.
  • Swarovski Jewel Perfume in 1997, limited edition of 10,000.
  • Swarovski Roma in 1997 with limited distribution in the European community.
  • Swarovski Madame Gres (three different bottles) in 2003, limited edition of 5,000 (per bottle) .

If you are a Swarovski collector who enjoys Swarovski Perfume bottles, Crystal Exchange America does have some of them available.



Feb 112011
 

I recently found a Swarovski video that features issues from the Swarovski Crystal Myriad Collection on YouTube.

It features the four Swarovski Crystal Myriad sculptures from 2010:

The Swarovski Crystal Myriad objects of art are all Swarovski NLE (Swarovski Numbered Limited Editions).  Each Crystal Myriad has a maximum production of 300 units.  Depending on the item, the Crystal Myriad figurine has 32,000 – 63,000 hand-set crystals.  In general, the more the crystals and hours to create, the higher the purchase price.  The price range of the Crystal Myriad figurines is $12,000 – $18,000.  WOW!  I think they should come to life for that pretty penny!  (or at a minimum that I can drive it somewhere)

I am a confused about the availability of the Swarovski Crystal Myriad collection.  At one place on Swarovski’s web site, it states that the Swarovski Jinlong and Swarovski Amurath are sold out.  However, it you go directly to the item on the site, it is still possible to add both of them to your shopping cart.  From previous experience, if an item is not available on the Swarovski site, I’d see a button that indicates ‘go to the boutique finder’ vs add to cart.

If you are interested in lower-priced Swarovski Limited Editions, many are available on the Crystal Exchange America web site.  The limited edition Swarovski figurines can be found in the ‘Limited Editions’ and ‘SCS Annual and Limited Editions’ categories of the store web site.