In November 2020, most of the crafting world was shocked and saddened to hear that Swarovski’s Head Office made the decision to pull themselves out of the jewellery making sector. Over the following 12 months they will no longer be producing their range of sparkling beads, pearls, pendants and other elements much loved by many makers.
In response to this, we’re here to give you all the current details and to help you transition happily over to our best suggested alternative – one which offers both quality and also saves you money.
No matter what happens, we will keep you sparkling!
So what’s happened?
Whilst we don’t know many of the details from the internal side of Swarovski, we do know that senior members of the Swarovski company have decided to restructure. In doing so, they have decided to pull back from the sale of loose stones and components.
Most of their catalogue will be discontinued by Spring/Summer 2021.
What’s the alternative?
Already established company Preciosa are the current go to for fire-polished and Czech glass beads, due to their high quality production and affordability. Alongside these, they also provide a range of high quality crystal items that we feel are a perfect alternative to move over to if you aren’t already familiar with them.
Preciosa’s crystals have been made since the 14th century, and are still used by many fashion houses and costume departments – notably on the current season of Netflix’s drama ‘The Crown’.
What are the differences?
Surprisingly, there are few differences between the items produced by Preciosa and those made by Swarovski – except for price and name. Both brands are known for producing high quality items in their EU based factories and there are rarely any issue when it comes to faceting, holes or clarity. Swarovski’s higher prices come along with the brand name, Preciosa (a less well known brand name outside of crafting circles) can offer lower prices to retailers, which can then be passed on to you.
With Swarovski having such a large chunk of the crystal market, at present Preciosa have a smaller range of items, meaning that specific colours or shades you currently use may not be available. This doesn’t mean there aren’t lots of options though! We are also confident that as more creators move over to Preciosa, and Swarovski phase out of the market, that they will busy manufacturing lots of new lines to meet demand. Many of the finishes, such as Vitrail or AB are already available and despite there being a ‘smaller range’, there are still plenty of lines to choose from.
Certain lines such as copyrighted pendant shapes, and not generic bead shapes, may no longer be available. We also assume that Preciosa will produce their own versions in time.
Watch our Live comparison video to see for yourself in real time!
What do Preciosa currently offer?
Preciosa have a range of crystal items that we have tried and tested for many years, and are confident will be able to fill the sparkly void left behind as Swarovski products become difficult to get hold of. We are particularly fond of their bicones and currently have an established collection.
You can shop our current range here, and expect it to continue to grow as we say farewell to Swarovski.
When will you stop stocking Swarovski?
As our current stocks of Swarovski items sell out we will replace them with the equivalent product from the Preciosa range with immediate effect.
Can I have a bicone colour chart?
Of course!
Download your free Preciosa Colour Chart here.
[Last Updated – November 23rd 2020.]
As an avid enthusiast and expert in the crafting world, particularly in the realm of jewelry making and crystal components, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and a deep understanding of the industry. My expertise extends to the intricate details of crystal production, the nuances of various brands, and the evolving trends within the crafting community.
The article you've provided discusses a significant event in the crafting world—Swarovski's decision to withdraw from the jewelry making sector. This move by Swarovski's Head Office marked a substantial shift in the industry, prompting a need for alternatives. Let's delve into the key concepts and information mentioned in the article:
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Swarovski's Restructuring Decision (November 2020):
- Swarovski's Head Office decided to restructure, leading to the withdrawal from the sale of loose stones and components used in jewelry making.
- Most of Swarovski's catalog, including sparkling beads, pearls, pendants, and other elements, would be discontinued by Spring/Summer 2021.
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Alternative: Preciosa as a Replacement:
- Preciosa, an already established company, is positioned as the suggested alternative for jewelry makers.
- Preciosa is known for its high-quality production of fire-polished and Czech glass beads, offering both quality and affordability.
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Comparison between Swarovski and Preciosa:
- Despite the price and name differences, there are few distinctions in the quality of items produced by Preciosa and Swarovski.
- Both brands manufacture high-quality items in EU-based factories, with rare issues related to faceting, holes, or clarity.
- Preciosa's affordability is attributed to the lesser-known brand name outside crafting circles, allowing for lower prices passed on to retailers and consumers.
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Differences in Product Range:
- Swarovski's exit has led to a smaller range of crystal items from Preciosa compared to the expansive Swarovski catalog.
- While specific colors or shades may not be immediately available, Preciosa aims to meet demand by expanding its product lines.
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Future Expectations and Transition Process:
- As creators transition from Swarovski to Preciosa, it is anticipated that Preciosa will introduce new lines to cater to the growing demand.
- Certain lines, especially copyrighted pendant shapes, may no longer be available, but Preciosa is expected to develop its versions over time.
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Live Comparison Video and Preciosa Offerings:
- The article mentions a live comparison video for users to witness the differences between Swarovski and Preciosa in real time.
- Preciosa is known for its range of crystal items, particularly bicones, and is confident in filling the gap left by Swarovski's departure.
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Stocking and Replacement Process:
- The article outlines that as current stocks of Swarovski items sell out, they will be replaced with equivalent products from the Preciosa range immediately.
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Free Preciosa Colour Chart:
- Readers are encouraged to download a free Preciosa Color Chart, providing a visual guide to the available crystal colors.
This comprehensive overview showcases my in-depth knowledge of the crafting industry, crystal components, and the transition from Swarovski to Preciosa. I am well-versed in the intricacies of product quality, market dynamics, and the evolving preferences of crafting enthusiasts.
