The quality levels of crystals is still unknown. In most cases, high quality is often referred to as crystal clear. While glass trim tends to reflect light, its crystal trim counterpart refracts it. In a solid white based environmental setting, glass is colorless. However, its sister counterpart crystal displays fire as well as brilliance (whether there is a color or not). These classic elements are needed in lighting. On that note, this guide is going to take you through all things crystal lighting—including Swarovski Spectra, Swarovski Strass, and Swarovski Elements.
Strass Crystal
Regarded as the highest quality when it comes to crystal trim, Swarovski Strass is patented when it comes to anti-dust coating. This optical coating makes it easy to clean and maintain Swarovski Strass. According to experts, Swarovski Strass is considered to be a perfect glass surface. It contains more than 30 percent of lead quantities. This machine polishing of the Swarovski Strass leaves no trace, which plays a key role when it comes to creating perfect optic clarity and razor-sharp faceting. This results in unique purity as well as brilliance. Even more, the incorporation of the Strass logo protects buyers from imitations.
Some of the most refined based refractive crystals include:
- Gem cut and Egyptian
- Spectra lead crystal
These crystals are made with 24 to 30 percent lead oxide. According to experts, lead tends to improve clarity and soften the glass for cutting purposes. Of course, Spectra lead crystal is relatively cheaper than its Strass or Swarovski counterpart. However, it comes with superior prismatic brilliance and sharp faceting. Other great features of the Spectra lead crystal include old visual purity and precise polishing. The manufacturing process of the Spectra Crystal is the same as that of the Strass crystal. The only difference is that it doesn’t have the optical coating.
How to Spot Genuine Swarovski Crystal
When it comes to purchasing Swarovski crystals, authenticity takes center stage. Thus, be sure to purchase a genuine Swarovski crystal. Of course, there are several vendors online who purport to sell original Swarovski crystals. However, not all of them are genuine. Some of them produce and sell counterfeit Swarovski crystal elements. So, source your Swarovski crystal from a reputable brand. Purchase from a brand that has been in this business for long.
Expert Advice
When purchasing chandeliers represented as Swarovski crystal, consult an expert to help you authenticate them.
Look At the Laser Logo
Look at the etched trapezoid laser logo that is located inside of the crystal. A genuine vendor will willingly state the quality of the Swarovski Strass. Strass contains 30 percent of lead. Thus, if the vendor simply states that its Swarovski crystal, then this is the Swarovski Spectra brand from the non-lead crystal family. Remember, Strass is more expensive than Spectra. So, check the pricing carefully.
Check the Swarovski Official Tags
Go to the Swarovski official page and establish whether that manufacturer is authorized to use the components of the Swarovski crystals when designing chandeliers.
Request for Samples
Before settling on a particular crystal chandelier, be sure to purchase a sample first. Of course, it might cost a few dollars, but it will give the confidence you need to purchase your crystal chandeliers.
Verify
Consider checking the crystal before handing your chandelier. Only accept what you paid for.
The Bottom-Line
Crystal lighting makes spaces brilliant. That’ why you should seriously consider crystal lighting options such as Swarovski Spectra, Swarovski Strass, and Swarovski Elements. The above guide is all you need to know regarding crystal lighting.
