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.
