Swarovski crystals: Are They Real or Are They Fake.

Ever since Daniel Swarovski invented the machine to give perfect precise cuts to crystals in 1892, Swarovski crystals have been the most sought after crystal by jewelry designers. They are known for their sparkle and brilliance. They are second to none in quality and craftmanship. The question then gees to mind, is how do we know if a Swarovski is the genuine item or not?
First, a little background. Swarovski uses technology and machines that give just that right cut to each and every crystal. The cut literally has a hundred identical facets that go in every direction. This is acgeplished by using geputer technology in which the reflected light is determined and simulated in a 3D image. This is set with the machine that gives Swarovski that wonderful brilliance. Daniel would have loved the geputer!
A recent article written by Stuart Freedman givesseveral ways to identify genuine Swarovski crystals. The information in this guide is based on his findings.
SinceSwarovski Crystalsare made with a machine, each crystal has a perfect uniformed shape. That means you will not see crystals that are just a little off or some with irregular shapes. The ends with be smooth. Each one looking just like the other in its size. Something not genuine may have some variations and dimensions that aren't exactly the same.
In addition. The facets on a genuine crystal will line up. Imitations will not meet at the points. A Swarovski will have all the points meeting. Examine the crystal. You will see a perfect meeting of the points.
Along with the precision cut, a Swarovski will never have bubbles. If you look at a crystal and see bubbles, you know that it is an imitation. This is an absolute sign that the crystal just isn't a Swarovski.
If you look at the surface of a genuine Swarovski, you probably won't see any scratches. If the surface has a swirl or oily finish, it isn't real.
If you have every gone to a bead show, you might notice that some of the crystals are on strands and are advertised as Swarovski. This definitely needs further proof. Normally, Swarovski are not on strands. This would be rare if at all. It definitely would leave it open to question.
One of the best ways to find a fake, is to put it next to the real thing. A Swarovski will outshine a crystal that is not a genuine Swarovski. The other crystal might be pretty, but there is something that just doesn't look the same.
There are other signs such as the hologram on the Swarovski packaging. It must say crystalize. Most of us don't see the bulk package. We buy them loose in bead stores, online, or at bead shows. So we should remember, that if those points don't line up, if there are bubbles, or if the surface is not quite right, then we probably don't have the genuine Swarovski.
Information from Stuart Freedman; Swarovski, how to ensure you are getting the real thing.