What's Happening with Swarovski Crystals in 2021? - Better Beaders Episode by PotomacBeads

[@lindalilac]

I use mostly 3 and 4mm bicone, sometimes 2mm, in my bead weaving. I will seriously miss the range of colors in the Swarovski line if they pull out of the hobbyist/small business market. And i dont think anyone else makes AB2X colors - those are my favorites.

[@cabaelz]

Preciosa has some AB2X bicones

[@sophiatealdo9680]

I recently purchased a Swarovski Crystal Rosary - Just gave it to the lake as a thank you gift - and so it is - Blessed It Be.

[@jdsvids]

Thanks for the info! I would like to be able to buy a "sample pack" of your crystals to see and try them...kind of like your grab bags but with just crystals.

[@patriciamorgan6545]

Good idea!

[@helentew1453]

I would LOVE that too

[@TwistedQuestionMark]

Fantastic idea. I don't want to buy blind!

[@evonnehartline906]

Margie , I would love to sample them also.

[@melissadoucette278]

I also think that would be a great idea 💡!!!

[@susansmith8602]

Thank you for anticipating this huge change and starting your own crystal line. I love them, just wish your inventory didn’t run out for such a long time. I’m sure that will change as you pick up more of the market. Not only are the crystals lovely, your price point is so much more reasonable than Swarovski, particularly if one chooses to sell a hand beaded piece. ❤️

[@Potomacbeadco]

You are so welcome!

[@secondaccount1688]

I really love the tiny 2mm rounds. I will often weave them into a project right with my 11/0 seed beads to include just a bit of sparkle!

[@Potomacbeadco]

Sounds great!

[@louanncook3011]

I would like to see you carry top drilled bi-cones. I also like the idea of a sample pack of your crystal shapes to try. I love your designs.

[@Potomacbeadco]

Great idea :)

[@dianaholvik2554]

This is a really helpful video for me. I am just starting out with jewelry making and i am looking for any videos/articles etc to increase my knowledge. I like to really research whatever I'm into. Thank you very much for this.

[@loycehake7151]

I’m very happy with PotomacBeads crystals!

[@mochacola72]

Me too!

[@amandajones6481]

And me!!

[@Potomacbeadco]

We are glad that you are happy with us. Happy beading :)

[@debbiepotter2779]

I am going g to try them for sure

[@catherineparks3848]

@@debbiepotter2779 Hey you, I am devastated. My jewelry was made with Swarovski that was my dream. Swarovski's name sells. ugh

[@afiesty12]

Thank you for keeping us up to date about Swarovski; and kudos to you for having the foresight to create your own line crystals! I have used Potomac crystals in several projects, and am happy with the quality, colors and shapes of them.

[@Potomacbeadco]

Thank you too!

[@lilychan9833]

Thank you Allie. You are always very professional and provide the most informative and engaging guidance.

[@Potomacbeadco]

Thank you so much!

[@jemith]

I am extremely grateful that Potomac offers such a wonderful variety of crystal products. Thank you!!! I am heartbroken about Swarovski, though. Their components have brilliance of color and shine, precision of cut and size, and the pearl finishes are extraordinarily durable. All other crystal beads I’ve tried have sharper edges than Swarovski, which means they are less comfortable to wear and more likely to cut through stringing materials. I almost never have to cull a single irregular or defective bead out of a Swarovski factory pack. If I buy a specific color today, it will match beads in that same color I bought ten years ago. I wouldn’t mind paying more to have access to the products.

[@jemith]

I’d like to add that I’m a huge fan of Potomac rondelles, helix beads, opal effects, and teeny tiny round beads. The variety of sizes and the reasonable price point means that I can keep a stash on hand that will accommodate any pattern that catches my fancy. Speaking of patterns, your KZbin library is phenomenal!

[@anjalleanil8297]

Mega Jewels in LA has Huge Inventory if you want to try them.

[@corrinebyers7580]

Thanks so much for the clarity on this matter. I love working with the swarovski pearls, rivolis, bicones and some of the larger retangle beads. Thanks so much. I had forgotten about your line of crystals and has given me peace knowing I can purchase my favs from you. Thanks

[@Potomacbeadco]

You're always welcome. Thanks for always watching and joining us :)

[@VaniaJacobs]

Thank you so much for doing this video. I will be relying on PB for my bicones once my supplies are diminished. And I will anxiously be waiting for increased Crystals in the EU warehouse so my many beading friends can have access to what we have here in the USA. I’m sure u r very happy u did not rely on their merch and was smart to create ur own line!

[@Potomacbeadco]

Glad it was helpful!. Thank you so much :)

[@beckydewey2284]

Thanks for the info Allie. I’m a huge fan of Swarovski‘s 14mm Rivoli’s, 4mm chaton montees and 4mm bicones so I am very sad to see those go. I’m in the UK so if you can get a good selection of your Potomac versions available from your EU website I’ll be a very happy bunny! :D Thanks for giving us the opportunity to let you know what we’re looking for. Becky :)

[@Potomacbeadco]

You're always welcome :)

[@aliart7415]

I’ve very fond of your crystals. I’ve been happy with all the shapes I’ve bought (marquise, lemon, rivoli, bicones, trillium). My favorite colors are the color shifting ones. I love those! I would like to try the fractal ones - but they haven’t been in stock. I’m not crazy about the ‘settings’ for the crystals. They seem light? But I’ve been very pleased with the crystals themselves. I’ve really been happy with all the colors. The opals are really pretty too. But the color shifting ones always get used first! :). Maybe you can get the color shifting coating on some of the other shapes? Oh - and that Siam! Wow! Hoping to get some of the donut ones in the future.

[@marissavallejo2987]

Ever since you all started your crystals line I have had all of my crystal needs met! And I am super excited with the new opal and opaque colors you all added, would like to see those also in your 2 and 3 mm rounds as well.

[@Potomacbeadco]

Good luck!!

[@fuzzylop9164]

I love the opals especially the white and rose. Having seen the patomic crystals they are fast becoming my 1st go to.

[@leeannjohnson1808]

What I don't understand about Swarovski no longer selling to those of us in the "lower echelons" is that they literally made the disjointed announcement about a month or two after announcing their Winter 2021/2022 line.

[@patriciamorgan6545]

They plan the lines probably a year or two in advance. Takes time for product development, refinement, and production.

[@leeannjohnson1808]

@@patriciamorgan6545 I understand that, and I also understand them going back to the luxury market. At one time, Swarovski was sonanmous with luxury. These days, the name "Swarovski" equals "crystals" of any typein the minds of many beaders. Kinda like Godiva now being sold in Walgreens, if you know what I mean? I can understand that and still feel like a kid who's been shown what they're not going to be getting for Christmas.

[@brendasaint-hilaire4397]

I love The opal Potomac crystals, I check weekly if the aqua opal are back in stock with no luck.. would love to see the opal colors (like the aqua opal) in their different crystal shapes 😃😍🥰

[@Potomacbeadco]

Will try :)

[@alliebuchman10]

We have been waiting as well for these to be restocked (rather impatiently). They are finally on their way and just need to pass through customs.

[@brendasaint-hilaire4397]

@@alliebuchman10 hope to receive an email or see a fb/IG post about it when they’re back 😁😁 can’t wait!! 😁😁

[@DeeMonkey999]

I like the opal colors

[@lperiodbperiod]

I was in a Swarovski retail store in The Galleria here in Houston, Texas last weekend and the clerk working said they were going to stop selling to craft store only sell to a couple of high end jewelry manufactures. I still have a good supply left in my stash but one day would like to see what your crystal qualities are. I remember seeing in the comments something about a sample pack. Do you offer a sample pack for sell?

[@gogojean007]

They will shine again..Best crystals

[@olderendirt]

I was told by a craft store employee that they had to put them in a special area of the store to be monitored because they're heavily stolen and the smaller stores just don't have the right display areas to protect them. And the problem is nationwide in the States, at least.

[@maryzylema9699]

I really like the necklace you are wearing Allie. Is there a pattern for it?

[@deborahhawkins5163]

I like the A.B. by cons but I like various sizes to incorporate in jewelry from 3 mm all the way up to 8 mm I like matching stones that’s one thing I would miss

[@shardaas]

I am just not sure what I can use to replace montees. I love working with Swarovski Montees. @potomacbeads do you have anything that can be use as montees?

[@cindychancellor5671]

I use them in my bridal pieces too! The cheaper ones from other sites aren't good quality. Hope the company keeps them!

[@Potomacbeadco]

Hi, you can use Preciosa Montees. You can check it here: www.potomacbeads.com/Rose-Montee-Crystals-s/2438.htm

[@rhondita95]

I use 2,3,&4 mm bicones most often followed by corresponding rondelle and rounds. I also love baguettes and marquise shaped stones, preferably preset, and rivolis to add to pieces and the occasional larger stone in a varies shapes. A myriad of colors and finishes including 2xAB and opal. I like crystals a lot and like to include them in my beadwork but, generally speaking, I don’t want them to overpower the rest of the beadwork

[@Potomacbeadco]

Thanks for sharing!

[@theplussizecostumer]

I love Swarovski crystals, but they're so danged expensive. I love many of your crystals and look forward to seeing what new crystal beads you come up with.

[@raymondgimay4642]

Hi do you have a video on the necklace that you are wearing in this video? Thank you for your reply. Patricia

[@samanthaparra1910]

Is it just the crystals that aren’t going to be available anymore. For example I shop the necklaces and charms that are at micheal’s Are those still going to be available?

[@Potomacbeadco]

Most crafts stores like Michael's, etc will unfortunately eventually not sell them as well

[@shaunasilver9545]

i had a bunch of swarovski items saved to my fire mounten gems cart and i just went to place an order, everything that was swarovski was rebranded as ''crystal passions''.

[@katiacardoso]

Hi Allie thank you for updating the beaders about Swarovski’s missing components. Glad to know Potomac is providing such beautiful crystals.👏👏🌺🥰

[@Potomacbeadco]

You are so welcome!

[@AMYV3]

Thank you :)) If I have some left some in packages many loose Do people buy them ? They are different sizes and colors and a few special beads

[@Potomacbeadco]

Because they are no longer made for the public you will see interest in them even though they are different sizes and colors

[@Schatzie301]

Thanks for the update. I create 1:12 scale miniature jewelry. For this I use primarily 1.8-2mm and sometimes 3mm rounds but would welcome other shapes. I’m really hoping these tiny sizes of real crystals aren’t going to disappear.

[@Potomacbeadco]

You're always welcome :)

[@mooshierebarcak4953]

Thanks Allie for all the current info. I love all your products. I to love the montees. Is that something you all might start making?

[@Potomacbeadco]

Absolutely!!

[@jillandrews1996]

hi how hard is it for you to get your crystal to the uk. I have bought from yourself before. Has the uk leaving the EU mage any difference? many thanks Jill

[@veronicaoliveira7327]

Good question. I forgot about the separation.

[@jeanettevassallo3665]

Allie, is it possible for your organisation to ship to Australia? Thank you for the information. Please keep the captions on as well, on the videos,

[@Potomacbeadco]

Working on it. Yes, we ship worldwide. You can check more shipping information here: www.potomacbeads.com/articles.asp?ID=57

[@rmac8737]

Do you sell in the UK?

[@Potomacbeadco]

Yes, we sell worldwide. You can also check our european website here: potomacbeads.eu/

[@hunybeeee]

Thanks so much Allie. I really appreciate this.

[@Potomacbeadco]

You are welcome

[@cindybrook0520]

Thank you, Allie, finally, some information on this. Are Potomac crystals made in the Czech Republic? I I have a large stash of Swarovski, but recently started buying some Preciosa crystals to compare colors and finishes (AB) in the 3mm bicone size. I love the assortment of shapes and sizes Potomac has and will check them out as well. One thing that I like is, Potomac crystals can be matched with Czech glass beads. Thank you

[@donnarieders1944]

Thanks so much for this helpful information! I plan on buying my crystals from Potomac Beads in the future.

[@Potomacbeadco]

You are so welcome!

[@francinebourgon4505]

Thank you for the information, I’m curious in beading options the Potomac crystal Helix can it be replaced by bicones or crystal rounds or by both or none

[@leeannjohnson1808]

I would love more videos showcasing the Helix crystal too! They are beautiful crystals, I just don't know what to do with them until I see someone else use them.

[@Potomacbeadco]

The helix can be used in place of a round for sure. Most pattern you could also switch a bovine for it also.

[@fredaskaggs3611]

Oh, I love the chatons, fancy stones, and bicones that you have that are not swarovski. I only wish they didn't sell out so fast. The colors I love are what Bronzepony uses in her beautiful bracelets, rings and necklaces. Thank you for listening!

[@Potomacbeadco]

I totally agree!

[@janicel4549]

Thankyou for helping us understand this topic. I mostly create with the bicone shape, 4mm and 3mm. I will be following your products.

[@Potomacbeadco]

Glad it was helpful!

[@susangibbons312]

What I'll miss is Swarovski Pearls. Such rich colors! What's a good substitute brand?

[@debbiepotter2779]

That’s what I have been saying too. Ifs the pearls I love

[@abbynormal4740]

I like Czech glass pearls and just saw that Eureka Crystal Beads has added a few new irridescent colors (haven't checked the PB and other websites yet). Sure, they're not quite Swarovski, but you get do much more for your $$ and the 2mm Czech pearls I've gotten so far have much smoother edges than the Swarovski 2mm pearls I've received. :-)

[@susangibbons312]

@@abbynormal4740 Good to know! Thanks for the info. S

[@diannrdanday682]

I have a collection of your product- my husband learned to liked it and became my gifts for birthdays -anniversaries- and Christmas etc.if yo can create cushioned for rings too for engagement rings or promise rings

[@jaynemarcum2509]

My favorite crystal shape are the donuts... I would truly hate to see those dissappear! Thanks for everything y'all do!

[@alliebuchman10]

Don't worry we have the cosmic rings for you!

[@dawsie]

I am so glad I pulled back from using their crystals as I have found they have been over expensive for how much we get in the packets but having said this when I have found them at a reduced price I have bought them 😹😹 slowly building up my small collection. I have found that your crystals have been just as good and at a much affordable price for my wallet 😹😹 I do love their 2mm and 3mm glass pearls and I have used them a lot in many of my designs as their quality have been a lot better than other brands. I have tried to stay away from many of their items when designing as I have found many people in my area can not tell the difference between the cheaper crystals and the high end crystals and they have not wanted to pay the price for them so hence the reason I don’t use their crystals much. Only for items being made for shows do I use the high end quality. Thank you 🤗🤗for the information as I don’t watch TV I was not aware of restructuring of their company.🤔🤔

[@helenmears6178]

Sorry but just think those Swarovski people have made a HUGE mistake however that said there's plenty of other Crystal companies out there (Preciosa for one) who produce great crystals, hoping the Potomac range will be great and successful. Thank you for the great info.x

[@cindymoats8518]

I love your company, and I have ordered quite a bit of things. However I would like to see more square and ovals with different textures.

[@Potomacbeadco]

Thanks for the idea. Thanks for always watching and joining :)

[@kathycoleman9260]

Thanks for keeping us informed

[@Potomacbeadco]

Any time

[@anjalleanil8297]

Mega Jewels in Los Angeles has a Huge Inventory if anyone needs Swarovski crystals since 1999

[@carolyns9687]

Thank you for the update!

[@Potomacbeadco]

Any time!

[@sandrapearman4067]

I love the shimmer hotfix. Sad to see it go

[@muhsenakhan94]

Do you have Potomac beads in Uk

[@Potomacbeadco]

Hi, we have a European website and warehouse. You can check our European website here: potomacbeads.eu/

[@ceciliabuford1983]

Thank you for creating this video which provides a little insight to the “rumors “ and speculations. I love Swarovski crystals and look forward to seeing exactly what this means for the beading world.

[@Potomacbeadco]

Thank you very much!

[@loucinboo]

Cushion shaped crystals. I love your videos. Thank you always.

[@Potomacbeadco]

You are so welcome!

[@realgirl2704]

I have been pretty tired of Swarovski for a long time. I’m ready for something different in the way of crystals. I love the opal effect and would love to see crystals that look like real opals with the flash of multi colors inside them. I’m also tired of Swarovski colors. I’m interested in exploring beads with new shapes & colors.

[@gm1653]

If you want to find good deals, there are some long time Swarvoski sellers on eBay selling current stock and vintage. I like Georgiacrafts...she has quick shipping and good rating. I doubt Swarovski will make it selling jewelry…it’s ‘costume’ lets face it. Dropping their components and beads is a HUGE mistake and this is where they shine! Don't be surprised if it all returns as was…they are an extremely fickle company.

[@StephsGarageJewelry]

Thank you for sharing ❤️ The information you provided is consistent with the information I have received as well. I would add that they may be still trying to figure out what this reorganization means for them as well. 😪

[@BlackCat_2]

That is interesting. I love all crystals. I guess maybe the perceived value of this set of dragon sculptures I purchased many moons ago might increase as each is holding a good size Swarovski crystal in a different color. Not that I ever plan to sell them. :D I hope you will have some large size crystals as I do plan to use them much as the dragons have... sculpting my own creations holding crystals. - Heidi

[@Potomacbeadco]

Very cool!

[@Eittap]

BEST info on what's happening. I thank you for that!

[@Potomacbeadco]

Glad it was helpful!.

[@vedantkanthale1865]

Thanks for the information

[@Potomacbeadco]

My pleasure :)

[@medicineheartds9631]

Thanks for the clear info!

[@Potomacbeadco]

Glad it was helpful!

[@susanpicken6874]

Thanks for your Swarovski update! I read the newspaper article that explains the company’s relatives are in disagreement on what to do. They have cut off Australia & New Zealand already. In the past attended their classes in Tucson and Bead & Button show. I’m so happy for Potomac Beads Crystals . They are beautiful. The bicones , smaller pearls , faceted rounds all seem essential to bead weaving. I also love the Fancy stones like 27mm. For pendants. ❤️ all crystals. Thanks again for your information!😊

[@saqiyamasaya8062]

Hy Ally,Could you do some tutorials on beaded animals/birds & specially baby Yoda By the way its my Grand son's wish Thank You

[@Potomacbeadco]

Hello! I am not certain if we have a beaded animal design coming in the near future however a peyote stitch would be great to create those beaded bead projects, along with a brick stitch. Here is a link to those layouts! www.potomacbeads.com/Free-How-to-Bead-Downloads-s/5701.htm

[@danareed1656]

thank you

[@Potomacbeadco]

You're welcome

[@wuyanggroup7484]

nice explainings ...............

[@Potomacbeadco]

Thank you so much :)

[@wuyanggroup7484]

@@Potomacbeadco welc.... wish you can following our channels to discover your needs...........

[@fredaskaggs3611]

I love your crystal line but every time I go to order you are out of so many things. I follow Bronzepony Beading and some of the components required to make her beautiful jewelry are always sold out. The colors she used are not there. However, I will continue to shop with you as I believe you have quality products and love the way Allie always puts thank you and signs her name. So personal and makes me feel like I'm cared about.

[@Potomacbeadco]

We are very sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you so much :)

[@DawnSp]

If you can have a rainbow of quality 4 mm bicones, I will be very happy! I don't want to have to buy cheap Chinese crystals.

[@Potomacbeadco]

Hi Dawn, you can check PC bicones 4mm here: www.potomacbeads.com/Potomac-Crystal-Bicones-4mm-s/4056.htm

[@iamtiredoftheinsanity]

Well, this is pitiful outlook for the little people here who love using Swarovski beads.

[@alliebuchman10]

We are trying to ease the pain.

[@andreajoyce2855]

Wished you had a store in NC. a grab bag is a fantastic ideas

[@Potomacbeadco]

You can purchase from us online at www.potomacbeads.com/Grab-Bags-s/3987.htm.

[@peternguyen5607]

Flatback

[@gwendugan2231]

Thank you for the information

[@Potomacbeadco]

My pleasure