Since its founding in 1895 by Daniel Swarovski, Swarovski has become a giant in the field of crystal cutting and jewellery design. Proprietary techniques, including Pointiage, allow for ultra-precise crystal settings that contribute to Swarovski's reputation for high-quality craftsmanship. In addition, the label is known for its premium crystal glass, which has a uniform structure and offers crisp clarity.
Swarovski is also an expert at creating prong settings that maximize light refraction, using stainless steel and rose gold-tone-plated, rhodium-plated, or ruthenium-plated metals. Swarovski-made crystals often appear more brilliant than those created by other labels. Although crystals are the label's primary product, pearls also feature but rarely take centre stage in some Swarovski creations.
While Swarovski is famous for its jewellery and watches, it also produces women's apparel and shoes with crystal accents. The Nike AF 1 Low Swarovski Retroreflective Crystals Black (Women's) reimagines the iconic AF 1 Low silhouette with a 4-piece shroud covered in 228 studded crystals. The crystals act as light reflectors, allowing visibility on dark streets. The sneaker also includes a mini screwdriver decorated with crystals for adjusting the shroud.
Swarovski stands apart from other crystal brands due to the quality of materials used and the label's focus on trend creation and partnerships with leading apparel companies. For example, the SKIMS x Swarovski V Body Chain Silver represents a partnership between Swarovski and SKIMS, a leading shapewear brand founded by Kim Kardashian. It features stainless steel hardware with imperial-cut and octagon-cut crystals at the V juncture.