Components and production technology of Swarovski crystals
The formula for the production of Swarovski crystals opened in the 1890s, Daniel Swarovski, who became the founder bearing his company name. His invention was a special form of glass, called lead crystal. The main ingredients for its production are quartz (silicon dioxide), sand, minerals, and oxide of lead. These substances melted at a high temperature, then the resulting molten glass is slowly cooled.
A distinctive feature of the Swarovski crystals is the presence of a large number of lead — about 32%, while for other producers of crystal, the norm is between 24 to 30%. The use of lead allows to make material that can withstand further processing, including cutting and engraving. Ready crystals have a much lower hardness than diamond, but they are harder than normal glass. Lead also increases the refractive index of light inside the crystal that brings his brilliance to the diamond.
Jewelry made of Swarovski crystals should be protected from exposure to water, household chemicals, mechanical damage. In the absence of the original packaging, it is desirable to store them in soft paper or tissue.
After cooling the glass mass cut crystals. Swarovski crystals make a variety of shapes: octagon, teardrop, snowflake, heart, oval. Each crystal has its own unique style, the number and shape of faces. In this case, is used exclusively machine cut, so the face is very smooth and clear. It also contributes to the manifestation of extraordinary brilliance. The result of polishing receive products of very high quality.
Many crystals are subjected to further chemical and thermal treatments. To give various shades or extra Shine, using special coatings. One of them is called Aurora Borealis (AB finish). This coating gives the crystal a shimmering rainbow effect, that makes it extremely beautiful. Some products are colorless, without impurities.
The Aurora Borealis coating was developed in 1956 in conjunction with French fashion designer Christian Dior.
Course Swarovski to improve products
The exact manufacturing process Swarovski crystals, the ratio of initial components, coatings and methods of cutting are the property of the company and will be kept confidential. The guiding principle of the company since 1895 and still remains: "to Constantly improve what is good".
In accordance with this principle, the company uses only the best materials and constantly improving methods of production and processing of natural resources. Proof of this was developed in 2004 a method of Xilion cut, significantly increasing the brilliance of the crystal, and the transition in September 2012, the new standard: an innovative composition, almost does not contain lead.
