CRYSTAL
Swarovski ® STRASS ®
Swarovski is the world’s leading crystal manufacture. Each 30% lead crystal STRASS chandelier component is optically pure, cut to precise dimensions and, with the immaculate polishing technology, refracts light like no other. The STRASS range offers a unique spectrum of cuts, shapes, colours and effects.
Swarovski launched this luxurious crystal in the 1960’s, when David Malik was the first person in this country to recognise its potential and, by using the brilliant, cutting edge crystal in his designs, a new age of illustrious chandeliers began.
When we first started using Swarovski crystal in our work, it was an unknown name in the field of chandelier components and, as the longest-standing customer of Swarovski in this country, we are honoured by our association with this distinguished brand.
The STRASS signature is a symbol derived from the STRASS logo which is indelibly engraved on every STRASS crystal (for clear crystal from 12mm, for coloured crystal from 18mm, crystal in the colours of Bordeaux, Jet and Emerald are excluded).
At David Malik & Son Limited,
we are one of the only chandelier manufacturers in the United Kingdom to certify that our chandeliers are exclusively dressed with STRASS Swarovski by providing a Certificate of Guarantee of Origin.
Swarovski SPECTRA ®
SPECTRA Swarovski crystal is machine cut in a reliable high quality. Swarovski’s second line for the lighting sector has been a registered trademark since 1999 and offers the most important cuts in clear crystal. Although a much smaller range than the original STRASS, it provides an excellent alternative that is unmistakably manufactured by Swarovski.
As an agent for Swarovski we also have an exquisite range of crystal door furniture and crystal components.
Traditional Crystal
Traditional crystal, comparable with the old English and French drops, is sourced from the finest production throughout Europe, mostly being hand-cut using methods going back over 200 years.
More economically priced chandeliers are dressed with machine cut crystal.
Rock Crystal
The original meaning of the word crystal is from krustallos, Greek for ice. Clear quartz has an ice-like appearance with patterns of silver and milky inclusions. Cool to the touch, it is a natural material. Mined, then hand-cut and polished in various shapes such as pear drops, kites and balls, each piece has its own unique qualities.
Rock crystal adorned the earliest chandeliers from the 16th century for royalty and the nobility. A chandelier dressed with rock crystal hangs in Hampton Court Palace.