A gemstone or gem is a piece of attractive mineral, which -- when cut and polished -- is used to make jewelry or other adornments. However certain rocks, (such as lapis-lazuli) and organic materials (such as amber or jet) are not minerals, but are still used for jewelry, and are therefore often considered to be gemstones as well.
Most gemstones are hard, but some soft minerals are used in jewelry because of their lustre or other physical properties that have aesthetic value. Rarity is another characteristic that lends value to a gemstone.
Exclusive: Erdem, Philip Treacy, Richard Chai and More Reflect on Their Favorite Swarovksi LooksMost gemstones are hard, but some soft minerals are used in jewelry because of their lustre or other physical properties that have aesthetic value. Rarity is another characteristic that lends value to a gemstone.
Swarovski just announced their spring 2012 Swarovski Collective group. The lucky New York-based designers benefitting from Swarovski’s generous sponsorship and sparkly crystals this year include: Bibhu Mohapatra, Jason Wu, Juan Carlos Obando, Rebecca Minkoff, Richard Chai, and Rodarte. They’ll also be supporting Giles, J.W. Anderson, Mary Katrantzou, Craig Lawrence, Erdem, Marios Schwab, Viktor & Rolf, and Thierry Mugler at London and Paris Fashion Weeks.
In honor of Swarovski’s new spring class, the brand has put together a lovely film featuring past Collective members reminiscing on their favorite sparkly looks from seasons past. There are awesome close-ups of an ornate floral Erdem number, one of Giles’ Pac-Man dresses, and a completely blinged out Philip Treacy bowler hat that Grace Jones wore in a show (so you know it’s extra bad ass). Treacy says it’s his favorite Swarovski piece.
