Swarovski Crystal Anklets

What is a crystal?

A crystal is defined in the mineral world as a solid in which the atoms are packed in an ordered, repeated pattern. This gives the crystal structure a predictable shape. A minerologist could look at the image to the left and immediately recognize it as a quartz crystal because of it's shape.

Most solid minerals are made up of one or more crystals, from table salt to the sterling silver in the above anklet clasp. In the case of the sterling silver the metal is made up of many small crystals. This is called a polycrystalline solid.

Gemologists facet gemstones to accent the stones brilliance and sparkle. Faceting refers to cutting and polishing flat surfaces on a gemstone. Athough an experienced faceter can use the original crystal structure to their advantage, the faceted surfaces are not usually the same shape as the original structure of the mineral.

Some materials that appear solid are not considered to have a crystal structure. Swarovski products made in Austria and Waterford products made in Ireland are two examples of non-cristaline materials. Although technically a glass, the 'lead crystal' made by these and other companies has heavy metal oxides safely added to the glass. This gives the finished product added sparkle and brilliance, similar to a diamond. The Swarovski company is generally considered to have the highest quality faceted 'crystal' beads.