Swarovski Vs Chinese Crystal....

We sure will admit it that Universal Beads & More thought that if we did not use the famous crystal called “Swarovski” that we would just be blah company. We had believed that at one time, that if we didn’t bear the brand name SWAROVSKI that it wouldn't be worth having crystal or beads in your store. Then we stumbled on an excellent source for Grade A Chinese crystal while working in a friend fashion boutique and we changed our view 100%! It is a crystal that is so luminosity, light weighted,has a brilliance color and with all this it has an overall design that makes it a product that is well worth having on any design we may carry or create.

Universal Beads & More can't even mention how many people ask us what is a Chinese crystal? Well, a Chinese crystal is a product that is made in China only. All of the Chinese crystal that Universal Beads & More have decided to carry is going to be a top grade A cuts. It will come in all multi-faceted, beautiful cuts, shapes and colors. Aside from bicones, rounds, and rondelles products similar to those made by Swarovski. Chinese crystal also comes in a wide range of unique shapes just like the Swarovski designs you see in many bead store or online websites.

One of the other common question we usually get asked by people that are new to beading or crystal craze is,"Is the crystal with or without lead? The answer to that is "NOPE". By definition, crystal is leaded glass all the way around.
Swarovski,Chinese or any other crystal, it will all contain stong or light lead. Lead is what gives crystal its weight. Meaning here is an example of a Swarovski that has a lead content of about 30% compared to a Chinese crystal that carries 20% range. This then makes the Swarovski a heavier lead bead compared to Chinese Crystal so this is how the get the price difference between the two products, weight and lead.

With so many recent concerns about lead poisoning and products containing lead this has put alot of suspicion from consumers and Jewelry makers. We found out that the crystal is made in a very special and unique way; that the lead is bound into the structure of the crystal so that there is never really no real danger if presented. However, this is a little different for the children that wear lead products. I always recommend that we substitute the crystal with Czech glass when making children’s jewelry.

We have a few great products that are sure to inspire you that have crystal in them. One of my favorites is the Universal Beads Model Braclet One because it really showcases the swarovski brilliance and sterling sliver with magnetic clasp. The second one is the Swarovski crystal and sterling sliver wirework throughout...both are my favorites. I actually own both these pieces and where them all the time as so many people love them! Since we are selling jewelry now and getting ready to sell many beads, crystals, pearls, wire, sterling sliver, 14ktgf and more all by the piece, you will be able to make a great piece of jewelry for a great price all on your own!


Soon we will be posting video on company and how we make a product! Keep in touch!