When it comes to crystals, there are several different brands that you can choose from. However, if quality and class are what you’re after, Preciosa and Swarovski crystals should be your primary considerations. These companies have existed for many decades, and as the leading producers and distributors of crystals worldwide, many people get curious as to which of them is better.
In this article, we’ll review these two crystal brands and highlight the differences between the kind of crystals that they manufacture.
About the Preciosa Brand
Preciosa is a luxury brand known worldwide for its high-quality, precision-cut, man-made crystals. The Preciosa company was established in 1948, making it one of the oldest crystal companies still in existence today.
Based in the Czech Republic, Preciosa produces crystals in various types, colours, sizes and shapes. These crystals can be used in many ways, including jewellery and clothing decoration.
The crystals are especially brilliant, such as the Preciosa burgundy crystal.
About the Swarovski Brand
Swarovski crystals are precision-cut, dazzling and high-quality crystals produced by the Swarovski brand. This brand was established in 1895 in Wattens, Austria, and for over a century, has manufactured crystals making use of sand, quartz, lead and other minerals mixed in a proportion that remains a secret to date.
Swarovski crystals are popular for their intricate and complex looks that are great for jewellery designs, fashion, and decorative projects.
Differences Between Preciosa and Swarovski Crystals
The truth is that when it comes to appearance, the differences between Preciosa and Swarovski crystals are, in many cases, so minute that only an expert may be able to see them. That being said, we’ll review a few differences between Preciosa and Swarovski crystals that we deem worthy of mention.
But before we do that, let us take a quick look at their similarities.
- Both crystals are man-made.
- Both crystals go through a highly-developed manufacturing process to ensure their quality.
- Both crystals are precision cut, making use of specialised machinery.
- Both crystals come in a wide range of colours and designs.
- Both crystals can be used for fashion, jewellery, and decorative projects.
Now, to the differences:
Colour
The colour spectrum of the Swarovski and Preciosa crystals is one major difference between both brands. The colour spectrum employed by both brands slightly differs, implying that when you purchase a Swarovski crystal and a Preciosa crystal of the same colour, you can expect a slight difference, mostly in intensity, depth and reflection.
Affordability
Regarding price, Preciosa crystals are a much more affordable option than Swarovski crystals. This makes the former a great choice if you work on a tight budget. Note that the difference in price between both crystals varies, depending on the type of crystal and its overall market worth.
Location
While the Swarovski brand is based in Austria, the Preciosa brand is based in the Czech Republic. While this location difference may not affect the product quality of both brands, it sure plays a role in their product distribution.
Clarity
Regarding clarity, Swarovski crystals have a clearer appearance than Preciosa crystals. This is undoubtedly a result of their manufacturing, which involves a specialised technique that guarantees the highest precision and clarity possible.
However, this is not to say that Preciosa crystals are not clear in appearance. They come very close to Swarovski crystals in clarity and offer a higher level of clarity than most of the crystal brands out there.
Markings
While this isn’t necessarily a fundamental difference, if ever you’re in a situation where you want to tell Preciosa and Swarovski crystals apart, you should look out for the markings on the crystal. Actual Swarovski crystals have certain marks that are mainly present to indicate authenticity, which is especially true for crystals produced from 1989 onwards.
Some of these markings include a unique holographic effect, the tag ‘Crystals From Swarovski’ on Swarovski crystals beads, pendants, and stones made by Swarovski partner brands, as well as laser-etched trapezoid-shaped swan logo (unmarked on Bordeaux and Emerald Swarovski Crystals).
Preciosa also does the same, particularly on figurines. The figurines bear a logo mark to indicate that it was made by Preciosa. Basically, keep an eye out for these brand identities to decipher whether your products are Swavroski or Preciosa.
Conclusion
While there might be a few differences between Preciosa and Swarovski crystals, one thing is certain – neither of these brands compromises quality. Therefore, you can rest assured that irrespective of the crystal brand you opt for, you would get your money’s worth.
