HAPPY HALLOWEEN to All CRYSTAL FANATICS !

Photo by one of our very own Crystal Fanatics Club Members
©Copyright Crystal Fanatics Club

Halloween is celebrated among Swarovski Crystal Fanatics with special limited editions and other issues to signify the Holiday. Some of these FUN items include:

Trick or Treat!  Kris Bear Halloween (pictured above) Ltd Edition
Clear crystal, Halloween Kris Bear carries a vibrant Red Topaz crystal pumpkin lantern with a silver-tone metal handle and matching pumpkin-colored bows, retailing for $100. A special limited edition, Kris retires at the end of this year.

Halloween Mo (pictured above) Ltd Edition - Designed by Edith Mair for the Lovlots product line, "Halloween Mo", created in Red Topaz crystal with Jet crystal highlights, is a limited one-time production and was only available from October 1 - October 31, 2009.

My Little Halloween Friends, Designed by Keiko Arai, are Magnets produced in the Crystal Moments line, depicting a pumpkin in Sun crystal, a bat in Chemojet crystal with Citrine crystal eyes, a cat in Chemojet crystal with Crystal Sahara eyes, and a ghost in clear crystal with Aquamarine crystal eyes. They were issued and retired in 2005.

Glenn The Ghost, Designed by Elke Kumar, another Magnet, again designed for the Crystal Moments line. Glenn is a metal-backed magnet in faceted clear crystal with eyes in Chemojet crystal. He was also issued in 2005 and retired in 2005.

Did You Know?
Swarovski issued a whole series of Magnets. I'll tell you all about them in another article, Coming Soon!


COME JOIN the Crystal Fanatics at the CRYSTAL FANATICS CLUB
WE are The ONLY 'Official' Premier website For CRYSTAL FANATICS
CFC - FOR COLLECTORS OF SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

Breaking Swarovski NEWS! The 2012 NEW Issues

IF you are not a Member of the Crystal Fanatics Club (CFC), you are Missing out!
We just posted 30 NEW Photos of the 2012 NEW Issues on the Boards & in our FABULOUS CFC Photo Gallery. 

They include:

• 2012 Annual Edition & Cub
• 2012 Event piece
• SCS 25th Anniversary Limited Edition!
• 2012 Lovlots
• 2012 Happy Ducks
• 2012 Mo
• 2012 Kris Bear
• 2012 Disney

And MORE!


CFC - ALWAYS FIRST with Breaking Swarovski NEWS!
Come JOIN US!
http://www.CrystalFanaticsClub.com/

The 'Official' Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal !

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

Swarovski Kristallwelten a/k/a Crystal Worlds

In 1995, during Swarovski's Centenary Year of Celebration, Kristallwelten, better known as Swarovski Crystal Worlds opened in Wattens, Austria. Designed by Austrian multi-media specialist Andre Heller, today Crystal Worlds is a worldwide must-see visit, managing to become a globally-recognized work of art.


A water-spouting 'Giant' magically lures visitors into the entrance. Inside you will find room after room of an astounding array of crystal displays. You will also find a fantastic stage for cultural events, the world’s biggest Swarovski shop and the CAFÉ-terra, where you can enjoy food and drink. Outside, a creatively designed park invites you to a maze, an alpine garden, art objects and a panoramic view of the Austrian mountainside.

The VIP Lounge
Shopping highlights include your opportunity to purchase limited and exclusive crystal products that are only available from the SCS VIP lounge in Wattens.
The Swarovski Crystal Society (SCS) unites more than 350,000 people from all over the world, who all share the same passion for Swarovski crystal. As a member of the SCS, you will receive VIP treatment when visiting Crystal Worlds. Not only do you have free admission, but you will be greeted by a drink of your choice and a small Welcome Gift.
Special attention is devoted to the "Wall of Fame". Admire the sparkling display of all Silver Crystal collectors’ issues since 1976, as well as all the Swarovski Crystal Society (SCS) Annual Editions since 1987.
   
The glittering shopping world of the Swarovski Crystal Worlds, newly designed by Conran & Partners in the Autumn of 2007, is the biggest Swarovski shop in the world. The Conran & Partners concept guides you through night, dawn and into broad daylight, where you will find a unique selection of Swarovski products. Bring Money! :)

The Swarovski Crystal Worlds is only a few minutes away by car from Innsbruck (Don't miss the sites in Innsbruck either, as well as the newly designed Swarovski store there).
A shuttle bus from Innsbruck is also available.  The shuttle runs from 9 am until 5 pm daily, every 2 hours, from Innsbruck to the Crystal Worlds and back. 
Kristallwelten is open Daily from 9:00 am until 6:30 pm.

Admission Prices
Single ticket:     9,50 Euro
Group price of min. 10 people:     8,00 Euro
Accompanied children up to 12 years:     Free
Members of the Swarovski Crystal Society:    Free
Crystal Worlds Shop without exhibition:     Free

Swarovski Kristallwelten
Kristallweltenstraße 1
A-6112 Wattens, Austria

Telephone: +43 (0)5224 51080
Fax: +43 (0)5224 51080-3831
www.swarovski.com/kristallwelten

WANT to KNOW MORE About Swarovski ?
COME JOIN the Crystal Fanatics at the CRYSTAL FANATICS CLUB
The 'Official' Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

Swarovski Julia's World

Julia's World 

Figurines issued in the late 80's, based on a book by Julia Limpke, and only distributed by Swarovski of America Ltd (SAL). There are 9 pieces of frosted boys and girls, all featured in the book, and discontinued in 1992. Original issue prices ranged from $29.50 to $55.00. A JW logo can be found on each piece, and Julia Limpke is also credited with designing each whimsical child.


Figurines Shown on lit Dealer Display Stand
©Copyright Crystal Fanatics Club

 

Pieces include:

• Julia
• Julia with Mandolin
• Lena and Pepi seated on a clear crystal Bench (3 separate pieces)
• Lena with Lute
• Marian
• Pepi & Mopsy (2 separate pieces)
• Pepi with Drum
• Sali
• Sali with Accordion

At CrystalFanaticsClub.com, you will find Photos of ALL the Swarovski Issues in our FABULOUS Photo Galleries, featuring Photos in Full Color, the Swarovski Product Name, Product Number, Designer, Current Value, Year of Issue and Retirement (if applicable) for every issue.
No More Need for outdated Collector Books.

Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics
Crystal Fanatics Club
The 'Official' Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal !

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

What is the Swarovski Crystal Society (SCS) ?

In 1987,  The Swarovski Crystal Society (SCS) was founded, in response to countless requests from crystal lovers all over the world.

The "Lovebirds", designed by Max Schreck and Adi Stocker, the only annuals ever produced by two designers, becomes the first annual limited edition, at a retail issue price of $150.00. Estimated Value today? $3500.00!  This piece is much sought after by Crystal Fanatics.
Interestingly enough, Adi Stocker is not allowed to sign this piece at any of the current Swarovski Events or Galas; that is if you get the rare chance to see him. Adi is no longer designing for Swarovski, but is working as the Director of the Swarovski Design Team.

What began as a small group of SCS collectors now has a membership in excess of 350,000 + members worldwide.
Members benefit from unique offers, events, sneak previews, and the opportunity to purchase the Annual Edition issues, as well as receiving the Swarovski Magazine, issued quarterly.  We often joke about the Swarovski Magazine, as members of the  Crystal Fanatics Club have known about any announcements, previews, and new issues, long before receiving the Magazine.

Swarovski is planning to celebrate their 25th anniversary of the SCS with a very special journey for SCS members along the Danube River August 17 - 26, 2012.

We are often asked, just what is Swarovski Crystal? so FYI:
"Swarovski Silver Crystal" vs. "Rock Crystal" vs. "man-made crystal" .... Swarovski Silver Crystal is "man-made" and produced by combining a variety of different minerals, including quartz and lead oxide. The manufacturing process uses full lead crystal containing more than 30% lead oxide, producing a crystal with a "deep color spectrum".
"Rock crystal", on the other hand, is a semiprecious stone, considered a mineral quartz, that occurs naturally. Therefore, "Swarovski Silver Crystal produces a more brilliant color than natural rock crystal.

Want to KNOW More About Swarovski ?
Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics
Crystal Fanatics Club
The 'Official' Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal !

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

Happy Halloween !

Happy Halloween!


Shown here: Swarovski's 2011 Halloween Kris Bear and 2009 Halloween Mo Ltd Editions
Photo designed by one of our very own Crystal Fanatics

Swarovski crystal fanatics love to party. Attending a Masquerade or Halloween party this year?
Well, Swarovski produced four stunning limited edition masks from their Jeweler’s Collection line that you can actually wear (carefully). 

The first mask was issued in 1999, as a limited edition of 2000.  A numbered certificate is included, and the crystal stones are hand set and bonded into the frame of the mask.  It comes in a satin-like Swarovski box in burgundy.  The Swarovski 1999 Mask retailed for $350 and sells for approximately $450 in the secondary market.

The second mask came out in 2000.  It was a limited edition of 3000 pieces.  The certificate included with it is also numbered.  This mask has a detachable hand-held handle and the satin-like Swarovski box is grey in color. It retailed for $375 and sells in the $450 price range on the secondary market.

The third mask was issued in 2001, also a limited edition of 3000 pieces.  Again, the certificate included with it is numbered.   Clear crystal and yellow crystal stones decorate this mask. The satin-like Swarovski box is an iridescent lavender in color.  It retailed for $395 and sells for approximately $475 on the secondary market.

The final mask was produced in 2002.  It was a limited edition of 2500 pieces.  This is primarily known as the Butterfly Mask with a numbered certificate.  The satin-like Swarovski box is blue in color and it retailed for $375. It  sells in the $500 price range on the secondary market.

At CrystalFanaticsClub.com, you will find Photos of ALL the Swarovski Issues in our FABULOUS Photo Galleries, featuring Photos in Full Color, the Swarovski Product Name, Product Number, Designer, Current Value, Year of Issue and Retirement (if applicable) for every issue.
No More Need for outdated Collector Books.

Have a Safe and FUN Halloween !
Crystal Fanatics Club is a website devoted to Collectors of Swarovski Crystal.
COME JOIN our avid collectors and knowledgeable members from all over the world.
We WELCOME Your Participation!
Crystal Fanatics Club







The 'Official' Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

Crystal Signatures is better known as Ebeling & Reuss (E&R), made with Swarovski Crystal, dating back to the early 80's. Some of these pieces are valuable and very much sought after by our Crystal Fanatics.

They came boxed in the same old round Swarovski tube you are accustomed to seeing, only in blue, with "crafted by D. Swarovski & Co., Wattens Austria" in writing on the package. They are all retired and have the "signature S" logo on them.

Some facts about E & R:

• Issue prices for the "Wilderness Collection' an animal series that is highly sought after, ranged from $110 to $140, with values presently between $350 to $475.00.
• E&R also produced tiny vases known as "The Petite Floral Collection", and a lot of them were  found in the Hallmark stores. This is a series of seven pieces produced and discontinued in the '80's. Issue price was $40.00 to $45.00 and they are valued between $200.00 and $400.00.
• And then there was "The Arctic Collection"; (again, 80's timeframe) these are tiny pieces portraying penguins, seals, eskimos, etc., most of which are on ice floats. Issue price for this series was $25; values range between $100 and $150.00.
• Other collections include 'Childhood Memories' and the 'Circus Collection' that has some have colorful accents.
  
•  And last but not least, we have "The Whimsical Collection" also produced and ended in the 80's, mostly frosted figurines, issued at $35 each with values from $100 to $150.00.

At CrystalFanaticsClub.com, you will find Photos of ALL the Swarovski Issues in our FABULOUS Photo Galleries, featuring Photos in Full Color, the Swarovski Product Name, Product Number, Designer, Current Value, Year of Issue and Retirement (if applicable) for every issue.
No More Need for outdated Collector Books.

Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics
Crystal Fanatics Club
The Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal !

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

Why Do You Want to JOIN the Crystal Fanatics Club ?

    The Crystal Fanatics Club's (CFC) membership consists mainly of Swarovski's most prolific collectors. Many of them have collections numbering in the hundreds, even thousands of pieces, displayed throughout their homes. And, yes, our membership also reflects some of our newest collectors, and even those who have smaller, unique collections. But we all have one thing in common - 'Friendship'
julie's photo
CFC's members do not only 'just collect Swarovski Crystal'.  In the past 11 1/2 years, many fond friendships have been made among its members. Some of us even consider some members as their Best Friends. Here's a few examples:

•   A member from Scotland now resides with a USA member, as a result of the friendship formed at CFC.
•  Another member from Canada visited a member from Australia for a 3 week stay. They 'met' on CFC, as is the case with most of the friendships formed as a result of being a CFC member. We are proud of this fact.
• A member from Australia has always called a U.S. member 'Sis'. They finally met 11 years after the Australian member first joined CFC.
• To celebrate our 10th Anniversary, a member from Canada painstakenly put together a 47 page Photo Album of all our CFC Events & Gatherings during the past 10 years.
• One of our youngest members recently had a heart transplant. The generosity of the Fanatics was overwhelming.
  

        Members are 'friends' with others from all over the world. Many of them visit each other often, despite the distances between them. The 'common bond' began with collecting Swarovski Crystal, but the end result created friendships we cherish, making CFC a truly worldwide 'community'.

Did You Know?
Those members who participate as Administrators and Chat Monitors do so as volunteers out of the goodness of their hearts.

So, How Do We Feel About Swarovski ?

    We have noted that many of the members of the Swarovski family refer to our collections as 'kitschy'; it is a very good example of what 'rankles our feathers'.  In general, collectors feel that Swarovski is obsessed with the fashion industry, and since we have such bad taste to buy their 'kitschy products' in the first place, our opinions aren't worthy.            
          The members at CFC have a wide knowledge base; some believe they are able to obtain more information from CFC than from Swarovski and/or the employees at their company stores, or anywhere else on the Internet.

        Many of us would like to see changes for the SCS membership. Some examples include:

• A more focused Collector's magazine that is received in a timely manner, and the return of the Gala Events worldwide.
• Many of us are still reeling from losing our Authorized Dealers in favor of Swarovski Company stores.
• Many of us have discontinued purchasing every issue (as was done in the past) because of too many new issues and continuous escalating prices. Now we just purchase what we like.
• Because of declining secondary values and escalating prices, many collectors are selling off their collections.
• We are sincerely tired of repetitive 'new issues'.

On the other hand, many of our Collectors really like:

• The colored Crystal Collections; ie., Lovlots, the Mo's, Soulmates, and the Paradise Collection.
• The Annual Edition Collector's piece and the Annual Edition Ornaments
• We love the quest for searching and finding that perfect old Swarovski issue! Some of our members are avid Trimlite collectors; others love collecting the old paperweights.
  
• We love to meet the Designers and have our pieces signed.

So, What Does Swarovski really mean to CFC?
Simply, a way to share our passion for Collecting Swarovski Crystal, but first and foremost, our most important, intrinsic value is 'Friendship'.

Want to Know More About CFC and Swarovski ?
Come JOIN US! You will receive a Warm Welcome from our Members.
http://www.CrystalFanaticsClub.com

The 'Official' Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

'A CRYSTAL CHRISTMAS' INSPIRED BY SWAROVSKI

For the first time ever, Swarovski will be joining forces with Harrods this Christmas to dazzle shoppers in London with iconic Christmas window designs.  ‘A Crystal Christmas'  will bring shoppers an exclusive range of Limited Edition luxury gifts for 2011.

On November 5th, Harrods will unveil a spectacular window display that will convey an enchanted crystal forest. Customers will be invited to visit this unique winter wonderland to experience 'The World of Swarovski'.
The fantasy backdrop will be home to many of the showcased Exclusive and Limited Edition Crystal Christmas products. We can hardly wait to see what will be offered.
Highlighted in the central windows on the ground floor will be an exclusive Swarovski Christmas Boutique.

Each of Harrods' seven floors will have its own individual 'Crystal Christmas' area, especially designed to highlight the exclusive collection of unique pieces. The range of products made with Swarovski Elements includes food, clothing, decorations, & bed linens, all produced by internationally acclaimed brands such as: Azzaro, Frette, LADURÉE, Barbour, Givenchy and Missoni. The Atelier Swarovski collection by Rodrigo Otazu will also be featured.

The 'World of Swarovski' at Harrods will dazzle with a program of interactive events for the entire family. This initial unveiling is just a glimpse of the excitement and celebration that will follow the official launch of ‘A Crystal Christmas' on November 5th.


About Swarovski
Swarovski has grown to be the world’s leading producer of precision-cut crystal for fashion, jewelry and more recently lighting, architecture and interiors. Today, the company, still family-owned and run by 4th and 5th generation family members, has a global reach with some 23,000 employees, a presence in over 120 countries and sales in 2010 of 2.06 billion Euros.
Swarovski’s own brand lines of accessories, jewelry and home décor items are sold through more than 1,900 retail outlets worldwide.
The Swarovski Crystal Society has close to 325,000 members across the world, keen collectors of the celebrated crystal figurines.
And in Wattens, Swarovski Kristallwelten, a multi-media crystal museum, was opened in 1995 to celebrate Swarovski’s 100th Anniversary. It has since become a popular, you don't-want-to-miss tourist attraction in Austria.

About Crystal Fanatics Club

Established In 1999, Crystal Fanatics Club (CFC) is currently celebrating our 12th Anniversary as the PREMIERE site on the Web for Swarovski Collectors. We are a friendly, caring and eclectic mixture of people from all over the world!  For a modest subscription fee, we offer extensive Photo Galleries, Discussion Boards and Weekly Live Chats hosted from all around the world. CFC is a great place to "meet" like-minded crystal collecting friends to discuss your favorite products.

There are currently MORE THAN 9,000 Photos in our Photo Galleries, featuring ALL the info you need to know about every Swarovski issue, displayed in Full Color. A complete description is posted to each Photo in the Gallery, including ALL the Values for your Retired Swarovski Crystal.
FREE with your Membership!
No More Need for Costly and Outdated Annual Books to document your Collection ! 

COME JOIN the Crystal Fanatics
The 'Official' Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal
 

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

An Exclusive Retail Design from Swarovski: The ‘Crystal Forest’

 AN EXCLUSIVE RETAIL DESIGN: The ‘Crystal Forest’

Swarovski's Blue and Red retail architecture is finally being replaced in more than 1,700 Swarovski boutiques in all major fashion capitals around the world. Swarovski has created a fresh showcase to highlight its own branded collections of crystal jewelery, fashion accessories, and home decor objects.

As Robert Buchbauer, member of the Swarovski family and the Executive Board, comments: "Swarovski is committed to presenting the sparkling world of crystal to our consumers in a way that exceeds their expectations.”


Swarovski’s “Crystal Forest”, designed in collaboration with Tokujin Yoshioka, the 2007 Design Miami - Designer of the Year award winner, who gave the creative inspiration for the new retail architecture.

Outside the boutique, the concept interprets the ‘Crystal Forest’ using a myriad of stainless steel prisms.

Inside the boutique, the ‘Crystal Forest’ has walls textured featuring reflective white prisms to create the illusion of an organic crystal forest.  Signature elements include an impressive Crystal Swan behind the cash register and Crystal Strand panels at the entrance.  An exclusive lacquer developed for Swarovski adds a glowing sparkle to furniture, with the mirror finish in stainless steel. Completing these striking elements, a modern beehive-shaped Chrysalis chandelier hangs from the ceiling.

The 'Crystal Forest' design concept made its global debut in Tokyo in March 2008 and in November 2009, opened in the United States on the Magnificent Mile of Chicago. 

Lighting is a key feature of the new architecture. The ambient lighting creates a soft atmosphere within the boutique. In a captivating play of light and shade, the gleam from the LED illumination in the showcases hits figurines and jewelery from multiple angles.

'Crystal Forest’ is a multi-sensory experience which gives visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the seductive brilliance and infinite depth of crystal. "Swarovski boutiques are unique magical places and the new retail architecture will ultimately make the brand a tangible crystal experience focused on pleasing the senses", concludes Robert Buchbauer.


LEARN ALL ABOUT SWAROVSKI !
COME JOIN the Crystal Fanatics at the CRYSTAL FANATICS CLUB
The 'Official' Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal


© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

Swarovski and the Famous Maker Perfume Bottles

Famous Maker Swarovski Perfume Bottles 



Aura, Issued in collaboration with Clarins Fragrance Group
Perfume created by perfumers, Jean-Pierre Bethouart and Olivier Cresp. Bottle for the fragrance was designed by Gwenaël Nicolas.  Issued: January 2011

- Lancome Special Editions ~ 3 special edition Lancome Tresor Perfume Bottles were issued from 1994 to 1997; all three editions look pretty much the same, fashioned after Lancome's Tresor perfume bottles, but made, of course, with Swarovski Crystal, in special packaging. These were limited, numbered editions ranging at issue price from $250.00 (1994) to $325.00 (1997).  All are now closed editions.

- Yves St Laurant, introduced and closed in 1996, Ltd ed. of 6,233, in special packaging. Swarovski and the number are etched on an aerosol bottle, retailing for $325.  Again, yet another issue was introduced and closed in 1998, a flacon that had design problems. Issue price was $350.00. 

- Jewel Perfume, introduced in 1997, a limited edition of 10,000, issued by Designer Perfum Ltd.
Numbered and packaged in a blue velvet box, & sold in the U.S. only.  A Diamond-shaped crystal flacon with a 24K gold-plated stand, now retired.

- Laura Biagiotti Roma Perfume, sold only in Europe as a limited edition with very limited distribution due to production problems. Introduced and closed in 1997, current value is $850.00, if you can find one!

- LaPrairie BRILLIANCE Silver RAIN Perfume Bottle, Ltd Ed. of 1,000
Bottle designed with 3,000 Swarovski Crystals

- Madam Gres Perfume, two different issues, one in pink and one in green, Limited to 5000 pieces.
Issued & Retired in 2003.

- Thierry Mugler 15th Anniversary Angel Perfume, designed by Cecile Henri.
Swarovski joined forces with Thierry Mugler to mark the 15th anniversary of his Angel perfume. A crystallized 400 ml flacon was presented in all its glittering glory at the Luxe Pack Fair in Monaco in October 2006.

More Swarovski-designed perfume bottles, including those listed here, can be seen in our FABULOUS CFC Photo Galleries.

At CrystalFanaticsClub.com, you will find Photos of ALL the Swarovski Issues in our FABULOUS Photo Galleries, featuring Photos in Full Color, the Swarovski Product Name, Product Number, Designer, Current Value, Year of Issue and Retirement (if applicable) for every issue.
No More Need for outdated Collector Books.

Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics
Crystal Fanatics Club
The Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal !

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

Swarovski Lovlots 'Gang of Dogs'

The very successful, Swarovski Lovlots, introduced the 'Gang of Dogs' in 2008 with colorful portrayals of some of our favorite doggies.

Peppino - a Basset Hound, designed by Edith Mair, Product #9100 000 108 / 935 720, in fully faceted Light Smoked Topaz crystal with a Snout in faceted clear crystal, and Jet Crystal Eyes .
A Limited number of signed pieces were available at Swarovski online under a different product number: 1070449 -  

Issued: 2008 / Still Currently Available.

Different boxes issued with Peppino

Salvatore - Great Dane  Designer: Edith Mair
Great Dane in fully faceted Jet crystal with Indicolite crystal collar and eyes in Jet crystal.
Issued: 2008 / Retires 2011 

Tomasino - Bulldog  Designer: Stefanie Nederegger
Jet Nut Crystal with a snout in Smokey Quartz colored crystal.
Issued: 2008 / Retires 2011

Tomaso - Large Bulldog  Designer: Stefanie Nederegger
Tomasino's older brother. Crystal Satin with Smoky Quartz snout.
Issued: 2008 / Retired 2010

Violetta Poodle - Limited Edition  Designer: Stefanie Nederegger
Faceted Violet Crystal with neck and tail in clear crystal; Jet Crystal eyes. Only Available in 2008.

Newest Editions This Year :

Scottie , retailing at $110, Scottie sparkles in Erinite crystal with Platinum White eyebrows and a Bordeaux crystal collar.
Coco is Peppino’s little brother. Sparkling in Lavender crystal with an Air Blue Opal crystal tail and ears, retails for $60.

At CrystalFanaticsClub.com, you will find Photos of ALL the Swarovski Issues in our FABULOUS Photo Galleries, featuring Photos in Full Color, the Swarovski Product Name, Product Number, Designer, Current Value, Year of Issue and Retirement (if applicable) for every issue.
No More Need for outdated Collector Books.

Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics
Crystal Fanatics Club
The Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal !

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

The Swarovski Trimlite Frosty Friends

The Trimlite Frosty Friends have a much different look than most Trimlite pieceswe have written about in the past. Unlike most of the Trimlite product line, the 'Frosty Friends' have no gold-tone trim surrounded by crystals, but were produced using a single crystal component.

The top half is frosted crystal and the bottom half is molded in faceted crystal.

There are five critters that make up the Frosty Friends theme group, and each of them measure 1” to 1.5” in height.

Frosty Friends Chick – 52603, (shown) a frosted bird, hatching from a clear faceted egg.
Duck– 52601, a frosted duck atop a clear faceted base.
Fish – 52602 a frosted fish atop a clear faceted base.
Owl – 52605. The owl is the only figurine to have colored, faceted eyes; the others have tiny black eyes.
Sparrow – 52604 - a frosted bird atop a clear faceted base.

All the Swarovski Frosty Friends were introduced in 1985, retailed for $20 each, and retired in 1988. None of them appear to have a Swarovski logo.

You can SEE PHOTOS of all these issues in our FABULOUS CFC PHOTO GALLERY!

Want to Learn More About your Swarovski Collection?
Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics
http://www.CrystalFanaticsClub.com

The 'Official' Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal !

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

The Swarovski Chess Sets

The Swarovski Chess Sets are some of the more unique items issued by Swarovski. 

The original set, the Swarovski Wooden Chess Set, was introduced in 1984 and retired in 1986. The Chess board is distinguished by a pale brown color tinted with yellow and chocolate brown squares on the playing board, surrounded by a wood frame. Convenient storage of the actual chess pieces is provided inside the board with a lock and key to secure them. It was only available in the USA and Canada.

In 1984, the Swarovski Glass Chess Set was introduced.  The glass board is a mirror with a frosted border and frosted squares to create the checkerboard pattern for the playing board. Some of the cases allow the board and chess pieces to be stored in either a single case or separately. The Swarovski logo is displayed on the outside of the Gray leatherette storage case. It retired in 2007.

Chess pieces included: 1 King, 1 Queen, 2 Bishops, 2 Knights, 2 Rooks, and 8 Pawns for each player with half the figurines in clear crystal and the other half in black crystal. 

 

Both were issued with the same product number. 

 

Chess pieces were also available separately; this was convenient for collectors who may have lost or damaged chess pieces, making it possible to replace them at a much lower cost than purchasing the entire chess set.  The Glass Chess Board and the Glass Chess Case were also sold separately.

The Chess sets were produced during the period when the official Swarovski logo changed, so the chess pieces can be found issued with both the old SC Block and Swan logos. The logos are not on the pieces, but instead a sticker was used, found on the underside of the chess pieces.

At CrystalFanaticsClub.com, you will find Photos of ALL the Swarovski Issues in our FABULOUS CFC Photo Galleries, featuring Photos in Full Color, the Swarovski Product Name, Product Number, Designer, Current Value, Year of Issue and Retirement (if applicable) for every issue.
No More Need for outdated Collector Books.

Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics
Crystal Fanatics Club
The Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal !

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

All About The Swarovski Lovlots 'House of Cats'

The Swarovski 'House of Cats' from the Lovlots Collection reside in the posh Park Hills district. They include:

• Swarovski Camille  - A Fully faceted sleeping copper crystal cat with a Jet crystal nose, designed by Stefanie Nederegger.  Retires in 2011
• Diane – Diane is the big sister to Ines. She has a Golden Shadow faceted body; ears and tail in Smoky Quartz with Aquamarine crystal eyes & black print pupil, & a Jet crystal nose. She wears a Light Cream-rose Pearl necklace, designed by Edith Mair. Retires in 2011.
  
• Emily – Faceted Fuchsia cat with silver-tone metal butterfly on ear. Eyes in Chalk White crystal with black printed pupil and Jet crystal nose, designed by Peter Heidegger.
• Ines –  Faceted body in Shadow crystal, ears and tail in Morion crystal. Aquamarine crystal eyes with black printed pupil, wearing a Dark Grey Pearl necklace, designed by Edith Mair.
• Marie and Pierre –  Marie is in fully faceted Kakadu Red Satin crystal with a small heart in Chalk White crystal. Pierre is in fully faceted Indian Sapphire crystal, eyes in Chalk White crystal with black printed pupil and Jet crystal nose, designed by Edith Mair. They retire in 2011.
  
• Theo - 2009 Limited Edition is a black cat, posed in a Halloween position with a Jet Nut faceted body, unfaceted tail, Chalk White crystal eyes with black printed pupil, and Jet crystal nose, designed by Edith Mair. Theo retired in 2009.

At CrystalFanaticsClub.com, you will find Photos of ALL the Swarovski Issues in our FABULOUS Photo Galleries, featuring Photos in Full Color, the Swarovski Product Name, Product Number, Designer, Current Value, Year of Issue and Retirement (if applicable) for every issue.
No More Need for outdated Collector Books.

Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics
Crystal Fanatics Club
The Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal 

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

--

The Swarovski FalconHeads

The Swarovski Falcon heads are among some of the favorite issues of our Crystal Fanatics, and can be very difficult to find.


Photo Compliments of one of our Very Own 'Crystal Fanatics'
© Copyright Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

The Silver Crystal Falcons
The Large Falcon Head - Versions 1 and 2, designed by Max Schreck, were issued in the Silver Crystal product line in 1984 and retired in 1991. Measuring 4 inches / 102mm high, Version 1 has a base that forms a V with one narrow facet, approximately 5/8" under the beak, and a wider facet on each side. This version bears the Old SC Block logo. Both versions Weigh in at 2 lbs 9 oz.
Version 2 has a very flat chest under the beak and looks like the small falcon head. There is a single wide facet, approx 2-1/2 inches, under the beak. Version 2 can be found with either the old SC block logo or the Swan logo.
Version 1 is valued at more than $1800.00 while Version 2 has a value in excess of $1600.00.

The Small Falcon Head also has 2 versions, also designed by Max Schreck in the Silver Crystal range, measuring 1-3/4 inches / 45mm high

The difference in the variations is the width of the cut of the facet at the bottom of the piece. Version 1 has a narrow facet on the base under the beak. Version 2 has a wide facet under the beak at the base area.  This version can be found with either the old SC block logo or the Swan logo. It was issued in 1986 and retired in 1991.

The Optik Falcons
Optik is a division of Swarovski, specializing in Binoculars, Telelscopes, & Rifle scopes, founded by Wilhelm Swarovski in 1949, son of the original founder.

The small Optik Falcon Head  is 1 3/4 inches 45mm High & made for the Swarovski Optik retailers in Europe to celebrate 50 years of manufacturing. It Retired in 1999.

The Optic Falcon Head Set, again was produced for Swarovski Optik dealers in Europe to celebrate 50 years of manufacturing.
The Optic Hawk Logo can be found on the Large size and the Swan logo on the smaller size.
The Large Falcon measures 4 inches, while the smaller issue is 2 3/4 inches high.
They were issued & Retired in 1999 and are valued at more than $1900.00

The Optik Falconhead, Large was also issued separately for Swarovski Optik retailers in Europe to celebrate 50 years of manufacturing.
It measures 4 inches 102mm High & Weighs 2 lb. 9 oz.
It has an etched Optik logo and also Retired in 1999.

At CrystalFanaticsClub.com, you will find Photos of ALL the Swarovski Issues in our FABULOUS Photo Galleries, featuring Photos in Full Color, the Swarovski Product Name, Product Number, Designer, Current Value, Year of Issue and Retirement (if applicable) for every issue.
No More Need for outdated Collector Books.

Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics
Crystal Fanatics Club
The Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal !

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

All About the Swarovski Mo's

The Swarovski Mo's - Yes Cows! are all the rage amongst our Crystal Fanatics !
Most of them average 1-3/4 inches / 44mm long in size.

The Lovlots Collection Display, Compliments of one of Our Crystal Fanatics Club Members

© Copyright, Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

The very first Mo was introduced in 2006 and nothing has been the same since.  Swarovski issued Missy Mo, a clear crystal faceted cow, in the first collection of Lovlots, at Paris Fashion Week.

More Mo's followed:  Pinky Mo took center stage in 2007, and in 2008, Soccer Mo, commemorating the European Masters Cup in Soccer between Austria and Switzerland, was made available in the host countries, as well as in the Swarovski Online Shop.

The Mo’s continued to grow in the 'West End district' of Lovlots City. Flower Mo, another Online Limited Edition was introduced in 2009, followed by Halloween Mo.  Then along came the Country Mos Online Limited Edition, the midsized Belle Mo, (retiring this year) in Lavender crystal with a floral motif, and the Glamour Mos in 2010.

The Lovlots 5th Birthday in January, 2011 was celebrated with a midsized Limited Edition Charming Mo with a removable heart charm.

The Sunshine Mo, again a Limited Online Edition, is only available for purchase at Swarovski Online. Designed in Jonquil crystal, she wears a necklace in tropical crystal colors.
The newest 2011 edition,dressed as Santa Claus all in red, is Santa Mo.

They are / were (as the case may be) all available on a first come, first served basis.

Among the Mo's are the coveted and much sought after 'Prototypes' - issues that were never sold to the public. They include the Alabaster Pinky Mo, given to Journalists at press & media events in 2007, much to the dismay of our Crystal Fanatics, and the RARE Golden Mo, issued in very small numbers. We're sure there are others to be found out there!
Of course, a few of our lucky Crystal Fanatics have managed to add these to their collections!

According to Swarovski, "The West End district of Lovlots City is leaving plenty of grazing space for more Mos to come!" 

At CrystalFanaticsClub.com, you will find Photos of ALL the Swarovski Mo's in our FABULOUS CFC Photo Galleries, featuring Photos in Full Color, the Swarovski Product Name, Product Number, Designer, Current Value, Year of Issue and Retirement (if applicable) for every issue. No More Need for Outdated Collector Books!

Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics
Crystal Fanatics Club
The Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal !

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

The Trimlite 'Gnomes'

Within the Swarovski Trimlite line, "The Gnome Family" theme group was released during the 1980's.  Swarovski demonstrated skill in the execution of the gnomes - delightful little figurines with round crystal bellies and goldtone faces, pointed goldtone hats, goldtone arms, hands, legs & feet.

These 6 issues were:

• Trimlite Gnome Brother Playing Horn
• Gnome Dancing Daughter
• Gnome Laughing Brother
• Gnome Laughing Sister
• Gnome Mama
• Gnome Papa

Gnome Papa and Mama are the tallest figurines, measuring 3.5" tall.  All the Trimlite Gnome children: Dancing Daughter, Laughing Sister, Brother Playing Horn, and Laughing Brother are smaller, measuring 2.5" high.

All the gnome children were issued BEFORE the gnome parents.  The children were introduced in 1983 at a retail price of $25 each.  They retired in 1988. 
The gnome parents were issued in 1985 at a retail price of $50 each and also retired in 1988.
Today, any one of these charming little gnomes can cost you up to $300 each on the secondary market.

Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics to Learn MORE About Your Swarovski Collection.
http://www.CrystalFanaticsClub.com
Crystal Fanatics Club
The Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.
Originally Posted 8-8-11
Re-posted 10-3-11

The 1986 Swarovski Christmas Ornaments

Swarovski used a Crystal teardrop component for the 1984, 1987, 1989 Swarovski Christmas Ornaments, and on some of the 1986 Swarovski 'Holiday Etchings' ornies, issued by Giftware Suite.

In 1984, a RARE Fleur De Lis ornament was issued on a teardrop component & in 1985, etched trees were used.

There are 11 'known' 1986 Holiday Etchings & you never know when more of them will be found. These 11 'Holiday Etchings' are among the rarest of Swarovski Ornaments.

There were 4 Angels, 3 Bells, a Dove,  Holly,  a Snowflake design, and a Peace ornament on various shapes.   The  limited editions have the year 1986 etched on them below the featured design & come packaged in white velvet bags in white Giftware Suite boxes.   The product numbers on the boxes are 5 digit numbers, beginning with "9".  They were only available in the USA at the time of production, making them more sought after by our Crystal Fanatics.

These ornaments were also produced with the same design and shape, but do NOT include the etched 1986 on them; therefore, they are not considered Limited Editions.  They were issued by Kristallwelten & sometimes found packaged in red, blue, or green vinyl-like boxes.

Other corporations have also been known to utilize the Teardrop component ornament as a promotional item for their firm.

Note to our Crystal Fanatics: if 1986 Swarovski Ornaments are on your Christmas Wish List, and you want the Limited Editions, make sure the etched 1986 is visible on the ornament. Truthfully, I'd be happy to have any of these issues.

Merry Christmas!  :)

At CrystalFanaticsClub.com, you will find Photos of ALL the Swarovski Christmas Ornaments in our FABULOUS CFC Photo Galleries, featuring Photos in Full Color, the Swarovski Product Name, Product Number, Designer, Current Value, Year of Issue and Retirement (if applicable) for every issue.

Come JOIN The Crystal Fanatics
Crystal Fanatics Club
The Premier website For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal !

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.

The Swarovski Boxes

About the Swarovski Boxes

The controversy rages on among Crystal Fanatics about whether or not to keep and store the Boxes (packaging) used to protect the Swarovski Crystal inside. The concensus of opinion among collectors is to keep the boxes.
Some say having the 'complete package' adds value to the piece. Others balk at the space taken up by storing the boxes, and the time involved in keeping yet another inventory of where they are located.

The earliest Swarovski boxes are the gray cylinders with the old Swarovski Block (SC) logo.

Many had two removable plastic ends, some were also imprinted with the Old logo.

The block SC logo was replaced by the Swan logo in 1989 and the gray cylinders were modified to reflect this change with the Swan logo imprinted on them.

Again, some of the plastic ends have the Swarovski swan stamped on them. A further modification happened later on when only one end would open the box at the top of the cylinder because, over time, the dual plastic ends did not remain securely closed.

In 2002, Swarovski introduced new corporate colors in a dark navy blue & red in their retail stores, and the boxes were also changed to reflect the new colors. At first they were designed the same way as the old gray containers, with the Swan logo.


It should be noted by our collectors that the gray cylinder boxes, logos & certificates did not always match.  This is especially true during the transition period from the old to the new logo. It is not unusual to find the same product issued in a gray or blue box, as Swarovski used the old gray boxes until their stock was depleted, before using the newly designed blue cylinders.

Currently, the crystal is issued in square blue boxes (as shown) that the collectors do not like, as the 'Tab' that is used to open the box is sometimes hard to open, tears easily, and 'The Box' becomes less than perfect.

Many products were also issued in Square White Boxes.


Special boxes were designed for the AE's, Ltd, Editions, some Christmas issues, Annual Ornies, Lovlots, & the Happy Ducks, as well as in some other issues.

Many of us are hoping the new 'Crystal Forest' white design that is now replacing the dark navy & red interiors in Swarovski stores will also replace those Blue boxes!

Despite the familiar refrain we hear from our Crystal Fanatics all the time, but 'we collect crystal, not boxes', most agree that it is wise to save the packaging.

Come JOIN US! to Learn More about your Swarovski Crystal Collection
Crystal Fanatics Club

© Copyright 1999-2011. Crystal Fanatics Club, Inc.
For Collectors of Swarovski Crystal 

P.S. This one is for You, George!  :)