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Swarovski Chinese Zodiacs
Swarovski Chinese Zodiac is a Growing Collection
New in 2009, is the Swarovski Chinese Zodiac Collection. This collection is a collaborative effort of Swarovski and the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing. According to Swarovski's web site, releases will occur in sets of three pieces.
Swarovski Chinese Zodiac Initial Set (2009)
Swarovski Chinese Zodiac Second Set (2010)
Swarovski Chinese Zodiac Third Set (2011)
Swarovski Chinese Zodiac Fourth Set (2012)
The entire Swarovski Chinese Zodiac collection will display a seal bearing the name in English and Traditional Chinese, in additional to the earthly branches, which are inherent in the Chinese calendar.
These Swarovski Chinese Zodiac figures released in 2009 and 2010 (retailing for under $300 each) have been created using faceted and unfaceted 'silver shade' crystal. They have a clear crystal base, which is engraved with the special seal. The larger Chinese Zodiac figurines released in 2011 have a clear crystal base with a golden shine animal atop. These larger items retail over $850 each.
The company has released Swarovski Limited Edition Zodiac tiger. It differs from the 'silver shade' release in that the crystal is 'golden shine' in color and it has an extra (special) engraving 'Limited Edition 2010'. It was available only in Greater China.
The company also released Swarovski Limited Edition Zodiac rabbit. It differs from the 'silver shade' release in that the crystal is 'golden shine' in color and it has an extra (special) engraving 'Limited Edition 2011'. It was available only in Greater China.
Swarovski Chinese Zodiac Collection: Certificates and Packaging
Swarovski includes product literature with the Chinese Zodiac crystal. The figurines include a Swarovski certificate (shown above on the left) and another pamphlet specific to the Chinese Zodiac titled 'The Chinese Zodiac' (shown above on the right). The Limited Edition Chinese Zodiac figurines also include a Swarovski Certificate of Authenticity that is specific (non-interchangeable) with the name of the figurine on it. The Chinese Zodiac boxes are also unique. The packaging indicates the collection, which is varies from the newer Swarovski blue packaging.