Identifying whether something is genuine Swarovski Crystal is not as easy as you might think.  It is not just a case of looking for their 'hallmark' as some of the older pieces of Swarovski do not have a swan hallmark or a 'sc' hallmark. Also where Genuine Swarovski Crystal beads are concerned, for making Swarovski Crystal Necklaces, Swarovski Crystal Pendants, Swarovski Crystal Earrings, & Swarovski Crystal Bracelets - none of the smaller beads have the hallmark and even the 18mm, 14mm and 10mm Genuine Swarovski Crystal Hearts for instance do NOT have the Swarovski hallmark on making it very difficult for the customer to identify if it is genuine or fake Swarovski Crystal.

Swarovski is the largest major supplier of beads to the jewellery industry and therefore they have many outlets selling beads - not just for jewellery but also for the fashion industry creating beautiful beaded clothing and bags.  Now for the fashion expert and the jeweller (such as ourselves) the task of finding Genuine Swarovski Beads and Pendants is much easier as we have a few reputable UK bead wholesalers which we use on a regular basis and also seeing the Genuine Swarovski Crystals daily we can easily spot a fake at 20 yards (or 20 metres if you are younger than us!).

The only certain way for you, the customer, to ensure you are buying a Genuine Swarovski Bracelet for example is to go to one of the many Swarovski Shops and make a purchase there (although you will probably pay more this way) but you do receive a Swarovski Gift Box and a Certificate.

Alternatively, buy on Ebay and 

1. Check the wording of the listing on Ebay to ensure it says Genuine Swarovski Crystal
2. Check the actual feedback given as well as the feedback percentage.
3. Check out the Sellers Returns Policy to ensure that if you do make a duff choice, you can return it.
4. If a supplier on Ebay is offering a Swarovski Gift Box and Certificate with the jewellery - beware!  Unless it is a one off gift they no longer want.

We believe that you will be able to tell if it is genuine or not for yourself as all the 'fakes' we have seen have not had the precision cutting and sharp edges, or the outstanding sparkle that Genuine Swarovski Crystal has.  If you want to know more about the history of Swarovski please click here.

We hope this is helpful to you and if you do want to buy the 'real thing' please visit our shop at www.stores.ebay.co.uk/sassy-designs.

Sue and Sal

Sassy Designs