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Daily Wire Tip Mar. 5: Swarovski® Component Plating

By on March 4, 2011
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Daily Wire Jewelry Making Tip for
March 5, 2011

Question:

I use Swarovski crystals in my pieces, along with their silver-colored metal clasps and chandelier drops with crystals embellishing them. Are their metal pieces at least silver plated? I would think that such a high-end company would want to enhance the quality of their world-famous crystals by silver plating their metal items with crystals. Thanks.

-Deborah in Winter Haven, Florida

Answer:

Yes, Swarovski® jewelry making products really add something special to our work! Although Wire-Sculpture only stocks Swarovski® crystal beads presently, I did some research for you. On their After-Sales Service page, under the heading Metal, they clarify: “Swarovski Fashion Jewellery is created using top-quality Swarovski crystals and the metal parts are plated. The nickel content corresponds to the European norms and has been tested for nickel allergy.” Although it is not spelled out, I believe the plating is a type of silver.

As with anything that is plated, especially pricy components, it is important to treat the jewelry properly to ensure long-lasting beauty. For information about how to care for Swarovski jewelry products, please see Care Advice, under the heading Fashion Jewellery and Watches:

Swarovski fashion jewellery is a delicate product, crafted in a traditional way. The metal is plated, and each crystal is set individually. As a result special care is required.

  • Store your jewellery in the original packaging or a soft pouch to avoid scratching.
  • Polish frequently with a soft cloth to maintain the original, lustrous finish.
  • Please remove jewellery before washing hands, swimming or applying body care products such as perfume, hairspray, soaps and lotions as this could harm the metals and reduce the lifetime of the plating, as well as cause discolouration and loss of crystal brilliance.
  • Put on jewellery last when dressing, and take off first when undressing.
  • Avoid contact with water.
  • Avoid hard contact (e.g. knocking against objects) which could cause scratches, chips and other damage.

-Swarovski.com

Answer contributed by Dale “Cougar” Armstrong

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9 Comments

  1. avatar

    John Cook

    March 5, 2011 at 8:40 am

    I like the look of Swarovski but have not done a project with it due to its delicate nature. Part of my craft right now is the rugged nature and durability of my pieces. as my skill increases though and allows my work to become more delicate I see myself using this product. Thank you for your time on this research.

    • avatar

      dalecgr

      March 5, 2011 at 10:17 am

      Hi John, you could just add a few small crystals to your more bold pieces, for a touch of sparkle – drawing the eye to special features.

  2. avatar

    Lorraine Brooks

    March 5, 2011 at 8:43 am

    Great answer Dale. I have used Swarovski crystals and components for years. They are all Top Notch Quality, the crystals and the plated metals some are in. Never have I had a problem with any of the metal plating. True Swarovski is a name known all over the world, and all their products must meet high standards. Heck, even movie stars wear Swarovski crystals and products manufactured by them. It’s a name that carries a lot of trust and respect. I seldom use anything but their AB quality, the sparkle and brilliance are dynamic, they sparkle across an entire room.

    Thanks for all your fantastic knowledge Dale. Someday I hope to be as learned as you are.

    Lorraine

    • avatar

      dalecgr

      March 5, 2011 at 10:15 am

      You are welcome Lorraine. (I have a few years of experience, keep on keeping on!)

  3. avatar

    Sandy

    March 5, 2011 at 9:17 am

    Hi, Dale.

    I used to purchase Swarovski items wholesale. I was informed by the company that the silver tone items are actually rhodium plated. Rhodium does contain nickle by-products. Therefore, I don’t recommend these item to those that are sensitive to metals.

    • avatar

      dalecgr

      March 5, 2011 at 10:12 am

      Thanks so much for the additional info Sandy!

  4. avatar

    Karen

    March 5, 2011 at 1:07 pm

    Thank you, Dale! By the way, do you have a resource for buying the plain combs in quantity (or any suggestions) to use for Decorative Hair Comb Pattern using the Swarovski crystals that you shared with us?

    • avatar

      dalecgr

      March 7, 2011 at 10:32 am

      Hi Karen, I usually seek these combs in all types of stores. (When I find what I want, I buy them all!) I did a search for you (use the phrase ‘side combs plastic hair bulk’) and found Good Hair Days, a USA manufacturer that carries all types of hair accessories that are great for wire jewelry designs! (I book marked them myself.)

  5. avatar

    Joni Stinson

    March 7, 2011 at 8:22 am

    While I love crystals, I do not use many in my work…however, I did like the clear and succinct “care of jewelry”. I hope you don’t mind if I copy it as an enclosure with my jewelry. Thanks for all of the wonderful support you provide.