Swarovski Striped Pave Crystal Ball Charm
Jewelry (Charm / Bead) · Swarovski; founded in 1895 in Wattens, Austria by Daniel Swarovski. Renowned globally for high-quality precision-cut lead glass (crystal) and jewelry components.
Pattern: Be Your Own Star / Remix Collection (Striped Pavé Pattern); introduced circa 2010-2018.
Type
Jewelry (Charm / Bead)
Maker
Swarovski; founded in 1895 in Wattens, Austria by Daniel Swarovski. Renowned globally for high-quality precision-cut lead glass (crystal) and jewelry components.
Material
Rhodium-plated base metal (likely brass or pewter) or occasionally Sterling Silver (.925) for specific high-end lines. Features clear and black Swarovski crystals.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 10-12mm; weight approximately 1.5 to 3 grams. Standard size for Pandora-style European charm bracelets.
Description
A stunning spherical charm bead showcasing Swarovski’s mastery of light. The piece features precisely aligned rows of brilliant clear crystals contrasted by bold black crystal stripes, creating a graphic, luxurious visual impact suitable for modular jewelry systems.
Key Features
Pointiage-style crystal setting; the signature Swarovski Swan laser-engraved/stamped mark; uniform spherical symmetry; high-contrast monochromatic color palette.
Material & Composition
Rhodium-plated base metal (likely brass or pewter) or occasionally Sterling Silver (.925) for specific high-end lines. Features clear and black Swarovski crystals.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish rhodium finish with pavé-set crystal decoration. The design features a striped alternating pattern of clear and jet-black chaton crystals.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Iconic Swarovski Swan logo stamped in a square/hexagonal cartouche, accompanied by the copyright symbol (©). No visible '925' mark in image, suggesting silver-tone plating.
Construction Details
Cast metal core with precision-drilled recesses for crystals. Crystals are set using Ceralun or a similar high-performance epoxy resin, a hallmark of Swarovski construction.
Functional Features
Center-drilled hole for stringing on a chain or bracelet. Smooth interior bore to prevent snagging on wire or thread accessories.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (This is a circular jewelry bead without handles).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-calculated stone placement (CAD/CAM) with hand-finished assembly. High-quality rhodium plating ensures a white-gold look and prevents tarnish common in solid silver pieces.
Authentication Indicators
Clearness and depth of the Swan logo stamp; crisp facet edges of the crystals; lack of 'glue overflow' around the stones common in counterfeits.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in Austria; manufacturing typically occurs in Swarovski's facilities in Austria, Serbia, or Thailand following strict corporate quality standards.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Modern (21st Century). High-glam red carpet aesthetic influenced by mid-century disco and classic stripes.
Age Estimate
Circa 2010-2020. Based on the specific style of the swan logo stamp and the use of the pave-striped aesthetic popular in that decade.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'affordable luxury' movement in jewelry, allowing for personalized, modular fashion through charm-based storytelling.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. No missing crystals (stones) visible. Surface plating is intact with no 'brassing' (base metal showing through). Very light surface scratches on the central metal band.
Value Estimate
Secondary market value range: $25 - $55 USD. Value depends on whether it includes original packaging/certificate of authenticity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, lint-free cloth. Do not use silver 'dips' or ultrasonic cleaners as these can dissolve the resin holding the crystals. Store in a padded pouch to avoid scratching.
Similar Pieces
Pandora Pave Ball charms (distinct crown O hallmark); Brighton crystal beads (typically more ornate swirling metalwork); Thomas Sabo Karma Beads.
Interesting Facts
Swarovski's secret crystal formula was originally designed to mimic diamonds. The Swan logo replaced the previous Edelweiss logo in 1988.