Crystal Beads — Faceted Crystal Beads

Crystal is the elite of glass - made with a different formula for extra sparkle, and then faceted by machine-cutting (instead of by pressing the beads in a mold) - there is a definite cachet to crystal beads. The sparkle and dazzle of crystal beads is undeniable - it pulls at you, enticing you, calling out to you, "buy me, take me home, wear me!" Be warned, Crystal beads are an addiction!

There are three main types - the Chinese-made crystal - a response to market pressure for less expensive beads, the Czech-made Preciosa-brand crystal, and the creme-de-la-creme - the Austrian-made Crystallized™ — Swarovski Elements crystal. (formerly known as Swarovksi crystal, but re-branded in 2008).

Unfortunately - we have seen sellers marketing "Chinese-made" Swarovski's or very deeply discounted Swarovski's. These are not the genuine item and while they are good imitations, and quite nice in their own right, they are not "the discards from the Swarovski factory being re-sold through China." (Swarovski crushes their rejects.)