Important Update: Swarovski Crystal Components

Swarovski has undergone a significant business restructuring to reposition itself as an exclusive luxury brand.1 This change, which began in late 2020/early 2021, has dramatically impacted the availability of loose crystals for the handmade and crafting market.

 

Key Points on Availability and Distribution:

Point	Detail
Exit from the DIY Market	Swarovski has largely discontinued its line of loose crystal components (beads, pendants, rhinestones, sew-ons) for the general crafting and DIY wholesale market.
Goal of Exclusivity	The company is focusing on its own finished jewelry and a select group of approved, high-end design partners (B2B). This strategic move aims to elevate the brand's status.
Inventory is Finite	Most smaller online resellers, like us, can only sell the authentic Swarovski stock they purchased before the new policies took effect.
No Reordering	Once a reseller's current inventory is exhausted, they generally cannot reorder these loose components. This makes the existing stock a finite and increasingly rare resource.
New Authorization Required	To purchase new Swarovski components, a business must undergo a strict application process, receive approval from Swarovski, and sign a legal Brand Control Agreement. This agreement severely restricts how the brand name can be used (e.g., prohibiting phrases like "made with Swarovski crystals" on finished products).

 

Swarovski Crystal Care Instructions

 

Swarovski crystals are precision-cut glass, often backed with a delicate foil to enhance brilliance and sometimes applied with heat-sensitive adhesives. Proper care is essential to preserve their sparkle and finish.

1. General Handling & Storage

Action	Reason
Put on Last, Take off First	Apply perfumes, hairsprays, lotions, and makeup, and allow them to dry before putting on crystal-embellished items. Remove them first when undressing.
Avoid Water and Chemicals	Remove crystal items before washing hands, showering, swimming (especially in chlorine), or doing household chores. Chemicals can tarnish metal, dull the crystal, and harm foil backings or adhesive.
Store Separately	Store finished jewelry or unattached crystals in their original packaging or a soft pouch/cloth-lined box. This prevents crystals from rubbing against each other or harder surfaces, which can cause chips or scratches.
Avoid Impact	Do not wear crystal items during rigorous activity, exercise, or in bed, as impact can chip the crystal or loosen settings/stitching.

 

2. Cleaning Instructions

Scenario	Recommended Method
Routine Cleaning (Jewelry)	Gently polish frequently with a soft, lint-free cloth (like a microfiber cloth) to remove oils and dust after each wear.
Deep Cleaning (Jewelry)	Use lukewarm water (no hotter than 30°C/86°F) mixed with a few drops of mild, pH-neutral dish soap. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or brush to gently clean around the crystals and metal. Rinse quickly with clean water, and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Crystal on Fabric/Clothing (Sewn or Glued)	Hand wash only using cool or lukewarm water and a mild, pH-neutral detergent. Turn the garment inside out. Gently swish and spot-clean the fabric around the crystals. Do not wring or scrub the crystals themselves.
Drying Embellished Fabric	Lay flat to air dry. Avoid the high heat of a tumble dryer, which can damage the crystal, ruin glues, or cause foil backings to deteriorate.
Items with Foil Backing	Never soak in water or liquid. If cleaning is necessary, use a cloth that is barely damp with water or a non-ammonia/non-alcohol glass cleaner, wipe the top surface gently, and dry immediately.

 

A Note on Hotfix (Glue-on) Crystals:

Heat is the enemy of the adhesive. Always use cool water for cleaning and keep the embellished item away from extreme heat sources, including hot steam and direct, high-temperature ironing.