The provided sources detail a range of birthstone-themed jewelry components, primarily focusing on Swarovski crystal charms and connectors. These components are widely used in creating personalized jewelry, particularly bracelets and necklaces, and offer a convenient way to incorporate birthstone colors into designs. This article will explore the available information regarding these Swarovski birthstone charms, covering their sizes, materials, color representation, and purchasing options as detailed in the provided documentation.
History and Lore
The sources do not provide extensive historical information regarding the origins of birthstones themselves. However, they do indicate a modern resurgence in the use of birthstones, specifically within the context of personalized jewelry. The availability of birthstone connector sets and charms suggests a contemporary demand for jewelry that reflects individual birth months. The practice of associating gemstones with specific months dates back centuries, with various cultures attributing different meanings and powers to each stone. While the sources do not delve into these historical beliefs, they demonstrate the continued relevance of birthstones in modern jewelry design. The rise in popularity of rose gold-plated options also reflects current trends in jewelry fashion.
Gemological Properties & Materials
The materials used in these birthstone components are primarily Swarovski crystals and various metal platings. Swarovski crystals are renowned for their precision cut, brilliance, and consistent color. The sources specify the use of Swarovski crystals in channel-set charms and rondelles. These crystals are set within metal bezels, which are available in silver plate, gold plate, and rose gold plate. The core of the birthstone rhinestone rondelles is made of sterling silver.
The sources detail several sizes of Swarovski crystal charms:
- CC4 Series: Features a 4mm stone and a charm height of approximately 6.6mm.
- CC6 Series: Features a 6mm stone and a charm height of approximately 9.6mm. This series is available in silver plate, gold plate, and rose gold plate.
- CC8 Series: Features an 8mm stone and a charm height of approximately 12mm, available in silver and gold plate.
- CCMS Series: Marquis shape, approximately 14mm tall, available in sterling silver plate and gold plate.
The sources also mention Swarovski chatons (pointy rhinestones) in sizes SS29 and SS39 (equivalent to 1128 style stones) used in channel links and squaredelles. The birthstone rhinestone rondelles have a 4.7mm hole and a sterling silver core.
Color and Representation
The availability of birthstone connector sets and charms allows for the representation of all twelve birthstone colors. However, a specific note is made regarding the use of “Siam” crystal for both January and July. This is due to limitations in Swarovski’s crystal offerings; the company does not produce ruby, fuchsia, or light siam crystals in the required size and shape for these components. Therefore, the Siam crystal serves as a substitute for both garnet (January) and ruby (July).
The sources do not provide a detailed color chart correlating each month to a specific Swarovski crystal color. However, the availability of sets containing five charms per month (in sets of 60) suggests a standardized color assignment for each birthstone.
Purchasing Options and Volume Discounts
The sources indicate that these birthstone components are available through BeadWholesaler and Beadprism.com, with potential price variations between the two platforms. Various purchasing options are offered, including:
- Individual Charms: Allowing for customized selections.
- Starter Sets: Sets of 12 (one charm per month) are available for those new to the product.
- Larger Sets: Sets of 60, 120, 240, 360, 600, and 1200 charms are offered, with decreasing per-piece prices as the quantity increases.
- Connector Sets: Available in sets of 12, 60, and 120, providing one connector per month.
Volume discounts are also available for bulk purchases of glass beads, Miyuki Delicas seed beads, and other related components. Specifically, price breaks are offered when purchasing 5 or 10 kilograms of glass beads, and 6 or 12 bags of seed beads.
Other Available Components
Beyond birthstone-specific items, the sources list a wide range of other glass beads and jewelry-making components, including:
- Czech beads
- Lampwork beads
- Large hole glass beads (compatible with European-style bracelets)
- Seed beads (Miyuki Delicas in sizes 8/0 and 11/0, and Miyuki Hex cuts)
- Tube beads
- Swarovski rondelles and components
- Silver and gold plated beads
- Rhinestone rondelles
These additional components allow for a comprehensive range of jewelry-making possibilities, complementing the birthstone charms and connectors.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care instructions for the Swarovski crystal birthstone charms. However, based on the materials used (Swarovski crystal and metal platings), general jewelry care guidelines apply. These include:
- Avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals, such as cleaning agents and perfumes.
- Cleaning with a soft cloth to remove dirt and oils.
- Storing jewelry separately to prevent scratching.
- For silver-plated items, using a silver polishing cloth to maintain shine.
Table of Charm Sizes
| Charm Series | Stone Size | Charm Height (approx.) | Available Platings |
|---|---|---|---|
| CC4 | 4mm | 6.6mm | Silver Plate, Gold Plate |
| CC6 | 6mm | 9.6mm | Silver Plate, Gold Plate, Rose Gold Plate |
| CC8 | 8mm | 12mm | Silver Plate, Gold Plate |
| CCMS | Marquis Shape | 14mm | Sterling Silver Plate, Gold Plate |
Conclusion
The provided sources offer a focused overview of Swarovski birthstone charms and connectors available through BeadWholesaler and Beadprism.com. These components provide a convenient and aesthetically pleasing way to incorporate birthstone colors into personalized jewelry designs. The availability of various sizes, platings, and purchasing options caters to a wide range of jewelry makers and enthusiasts. While the sources lack detailed historical context regarding birthstones, they demonstrate the continued popularity of these gems in contemporary jewelry trends. The emphasis on Swarovski crystals and quality metal platings ensures a durable and visually appealing finished product.