Our Evolution
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1892
Daniel Swarovski (1862–1956) invents a revolutionary machine that allows crystals to be cut more precisely than with existing manual methods.
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1895
Daniel Swarovski founds the company in Wattens, Tyrol, with the vision of bringing joy to people through crystal. His guiding principle is still followed by the company today: “To constantly improve what is good.”
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1919
The Tyrolit brand is registered with the Innsbruck Bank of Commerce and Trade for the production of separating and grinding tools. Today, Tyrolit leads the market in innovation and technology and is synonymous with grinding technology expertise.
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1931
Sew-on crystal-studded ribbons are launched, providing fashion and accessory manufacturers with new design possibilities.
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1937
Glass reflectors are developed, increasing visibility and safety on the roads. Today, Swareflex is one of the most advanced suppliers of road safety products.
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1949
SWAROVSKI OPTIK is founded, and goes on to become a leading manufacturer of precision optical instruments for hunting and nature observation (binoculars, telescopes, rifle scopes, range finders, and night vision and optronic devices).
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1956
Together with Christian Dior, Swarovski develops the “Aurora Borealis” effect, a shimmering finish that enhances the sparkle of cut crystal.
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1965
The first Swarovski crystals for chandeliers and lighting are launched, and in 1977 are registered under the STRASS® Swarovski® Crystal name. Today they adorn classical chandeliers, such as those in the Palace of Versailles and the Metropolitan Opera, New York, as well as more modern lights. Swarovski starts to manufacture precision-cut gemstones.
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1975
Swarovski develops the Hot Fix system, enabling crystals to be applied to a wide variety of materials quickly and easily. Brands such as Ungaro and Givenchy continue to use this technology today.
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1976
The first decorative crystal figurines win the hearts of consumers. Swarovski begins machine-cutting cubic zirconia.
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1977
The first Swarovski jewelry collection is launched. The Swarovski premium line today incorporates jewelry, accessories and decorative crystal objects.
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1987
Passionate collectors now have a home – the Swarovski Crystal Society is formed. Today, the association is made up of around 325,000 members in 120 countries.
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1989
As a tribute to the company founder, the Daniel Swarovski couture line is launched.
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1993
Swarovski develops Crystal Mesh, a closely woven mesh of sparkling crystals that today is employed by a host of designers, including D&G, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton.
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1995
Swarovski Kristallwelten opens in Wattens, Austria. Since then, over nine million people have experienced the magic of crystal with all their senses in the chambers of wonder.
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1999
Swarovski and Golay enter into a joint venture: Signity is the result, the brand for precision-cut genuine gemstones and created stones.
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2001
The global network of Swarovski Creative Service Centers offers business customers around the world advice on trends, inspiration and product information. After Wattens (1995), Paris (1999), New York (1999), London (2000) and Milan (2000), centers have now opened in São Paulo and Dubai.
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2002
Chandeliers become an art form: as part of the Crystal Palace Collection, renowned designers such as Ron Arad and Tord Boontje reinterpret classical chandeliers. Each year, legendary artists create new, avant-garde designs.
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2003
Swarovski develops Crystal Fabric: countless tiny crystals create a delicate shimmer over a variety of materials.
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2003
In conjunction with leading fashion and jewelry designers, “Runway Rocks” is founded – a collection of unique jewelry pieces featuring crystal for the catwalk, showcasing design and innovation.
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2004
Swarovski develops the XILION cut. Through alternating facets of different sizes, the light is brought together, significantly increasing the brilliance of the crystal.
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2005
In Monte Carlo, Swarovski hosts “Swarovski Fashion Rocks,” a benefit gala with stars from the music and fashion industries.
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2005
“A World of Beauty,” the first publication from the Daniel Swarovski brand, is released. The book offers an insight into creative vision and shows the influence of crystal on the worlds of fashion and interior design.
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2006
Swarovski acquires the remaining 50% stake in Signity, ensuring that it is now entirely owned by the company and can become part of the Swarovski Group.
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2007
Swarovski takes over Schonbek Worldwide Lighting Inc. Based in Plattsburgh, New York, the company was founded in Bohemia in 1870 and is the world market leader in the premium crystal chandelier sector.
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2009
At the “Baselworld” watch and jewelry exhibition, Swarovski launches its first watch collection.
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2009
In collaboration with awardwinning director Shekhar Kapur (“Elizabeth”), Swarovski produces the “Passage” short film.
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