Annaleece offers a diverse collection of jewelry and figurines incorporating both Swarovski crystals and natural gemstones, including amethyst, aquamarine, emerald, and topaz. These materials are utilized in a range of products, from pendants and earrings to intricately designed animal figurines, particularly bears. This article will explore the materials used in Annaleece’s creations, focusing on the properties of Swarovski crystal and the natural gemstones featured, as well as the precious metals employed in their construction.
Materials and Composition
Annaleece distinguishes its products through the use of high-quality materials. Swarovski crystal, a key component, is essentially a specialized glass containing 32% lead. This lead content imparts significant strength to the material, allowing for precise facet-cutting and enhancing its brilliance and color spectrum. The inclusion of Swarovski crystals contributes to the sparkle and visual appeal of many Annaleece pieces.
Alongside Swarovski crystals, Annaleece incorporates a variety of natural gemstones, including Mother of Pearl, Turquoise, amethyst, aquamarine, emerald, and topaz. The company emphasizes the unique nature of each natural gemstone, noting that variations in texture and color are inherent characteristics. This individuality distinguishes each piece, highlighting the natural origin of the materials.
The jewelry is crafted using precious metal platings of 22-karat gold, rhodium, and ruthenium. 22-karat gold, comprising 91.3% pure gold alloyed with 8.6% other metals, is favored for its quality and suitability for jewelry production. Rhodium, a member of the platinum family, is valued for its strength and resistance to tarnishing, making it a durable and long-lasting finish. Ruthenium, also from the platinum family, offers a darker finish and shares rhodium’s resistance to tarnishing.
Gemstone Varieties and Their Application
Annaleece utilizes several natural gemstones in its designs. The document specifically mentions amethyst, aquamarine, emerald, and topaz. These gemstones are incorporated into pendants, earrings, and figurines, often alongside Swarovski crystals.
- Amethyst: Featured in “Sweet” pendants and earrings, amethyst is paired with rhodium settings.
- Aquamarine: Also used in “Sweet” pendants and earrings, aquamarine is similarly set in rhodium.
- Emerald: Another gemstone in the “Sweet” collection, emerald is also presented with rhodium settings.
- Topaz: Used in conjunction with 22-karat gold, topaz is featured in designs like the “Golden Maple” pendant and the “Texas Star” collection. Specifically, light colorado topaz is mentioned. Smoked topaz is also used in combination with emerald and Swarovski elements.
The “Sweet” collection offers these gemstones in both pendant and earring forms, providing a range of options for consumers.
Precious Metal Finishes and Properties
Annaleece employs several precious metal finishes to enhance the durability and aesthetic appeal of its jewelry.
- 22-Karat Gold: While pure 24-karat gold is too soft for jewelry making, Annaleece utilizes 22-karat gold (91.3% pure) for its balance of purity and workability.
- Rhodium: A highly durable and tarnish-resistant metal from the platinum family, rhodium is used extensively in Annaleece’s designs. It is often paired with gemstones and Swarovski crystals.
- Ruthenium: Another platinum family metal, ruthenium offers a darker finish than rhodium and also resists tarnishing.
These metals are chosen for their aesthetic qualities and their ability to withstand wear and maintain their appearance over time.
Figurines and Material Combinations
Annaleece’s figurine collection showcases a diverse range of materials and techniques. The figurines, including elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, cows, horses, and bears, are crafted using combinations of 22-karat gold, rhodium, ruthenium, and Swarovski crystals. Some figurines also incorporate enamel detailing and natural gemstones.
For example, elephant figurines are available in various finishes, including rhodium and ruthenium with black diamond Swarovski elements. Lion figurines combine 22-karat matte gold with rhodium and antiqued finishes, sometimes incorporating emerald and smoked topaz with Swarovski crystals. Bear figurines are available in rhodium with clear Swarovski elements.
The use of Swarovski crystals in figurines is substantial, with some designs incorporating hundreds of crystals. The “Lion Father” figurine, for instance, features 423 crystals, while the “Zebra” figurine contains 245 crystals.
Product Care
The document provides general information regarding the quality of materials used by Annaleece, stating that all products are nickel-free, lead-free, and 100% hypoallergenic. The company also offers an exchange program against defects. However, specific care instructions for the gemstones and metals are not detailed within the provided source.
Regional Collections
Annaleece also features regional collections, such as the “America the Beautiful” and “Texas Star” lines. These collections often incorporate specific gemstones and metal finishes to reflect the theme. The “Texas Star” collection, for example, utilizes 22-karat matte gold and topaz.
Summary of Gemstone and Material Specifications
The following table summarizes the gemstones and materials used in Annaleece products, based on the provided source:
| Material | Description | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Swarovski Crystal | 32% lead content glass, strong, brilliant, faceted | Pendants, earrings, figurines |
| Amethyst | Natural gemstone | “Sweet” pendants & earrings |
| Aquamarine | Natural gemstone | “Sweet” pendants & earrings |
| Emerald | Natural gemstone | “Sweet” pendants & earrings |
| Topaz | Natural gemstone, light colorado topaz, smoked topaz | Pendants, figurines, “Texas Star” collection |
| 22-Karat Gold | 91.3% pure gold, alloyed with other metals | Figurines, pendants, earrings |
| Rhodium | Platinum family metal, strong, tarnish-resistant | Figurines, pendants, earrings |
| Ruthenium | Platinum family metal, darker finish, tarnish-resistant | Figurines |
Conclusion
Annaleece’s product line showcases a commitment to quality materials and craftsmanship. The combination of Swarovski crystals, natural gemstones like amethyst, aquamarine, emerald, and topaz, and precious metal finishes like 22-karat gold, rhodium, and ruthenium, results in a diverse range of jewelry and figurines. The company’s emphasis on hypoallergenic materials and a unique exchange program further demonstrates its dedication to customer satisfaction. The figurines, particularly the animal-themed designs, represent a significant portion of the product offering, showcasing intricate detailing and a variety of material combinations.