Question:
I was just browsing online at a site that carries Swarovski crystal beads,
Chinese crystal beads, and something they refer to as "High-Quality" crystal
beads. I'm wondering if anyone here can explain the difference between these,
as the site does not (other than price). I've also heard of Czech glass beads
and wonder how those might compare.
I've only used Swarovski so far, and am absolutely in *LOVE* with the way they
sparkle, and how well they go with sterling silver wire, chain and findings.
I'm especially fond of the bicones.
Any information, opinions, or ?
Answer:
-Many people say that they think the less expensive crystal beads
compare favorably to Swarovski. I don't. The Swarovski are the best
quality, most beautiful colors, and most uniform you can get.
Run from just about anything that says "made in china", they're so
inferior, they're not even worth looking at.
I've bought the Czech crystals in the past, thinking It'd be nice to
save a few pennies. They're a bit longer (the bicones) than the
Swarovskis. They also don't sparkle as nicely.
I happily pay the extra couple of pennies for the good stuff.
You won't be sorry.
-Some time ago Kathy N-V posted a review of Preciosa crystals compared
to Swarovski crystals.
Bear in mind she was _not_ comparing the Czech fire polished glass but
the actual Preciosa lead crystal beads against Swarovski.
Here's the link:
http://groups.google.co.uk/group/rec.crafts.beads/browse_frm/thread/3...
It's a very worthwhile read.
