WELCOME TO CRYSTAL VALLEY

The Birth Of The Bohemian Crystal

Over three hundred years ago, the world's most perfect glass bead was created using traditional glassmaking techniques that are still used today.

Nestled in the Jizerske Mountains and Lusatian Mountains you will find the oldest glassmaking operations in Central Europe.

This area was known as Bohemia and the "Bohemian Crystal" became much sought after as it was known for its elaborate engravings and sparkle.

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The town of Jablonec nad Nisou is still heavily rooted in keeping the traditions of glassmaking alive.

Initially, the glass was cut with sandstone cutters and polished down to create the perfect "chaton" shape meaning it has eight flat areas on top and the bottom.

Technology evolved and machines were introduced, patented by Daniel Swarovski (yes that Swarovski!). His electric cutting machines facilitated the production of lead crystal glass jewelry.

Did you know?

Swarovski was born in the area of the Jizera Mountains in Georgenthal bei Gablonz, Bohemia (now Jiřetín pod Bukovou, Czech Republic) and like many others in the area, his father had a small factory where he learned the art of glass cutting.

He moved to Austria where he and his partner built a crystal-cutting factory in Wattens in the Austrian state of Tyrol. Due to great campaigning and exclusive partnerships with fashion designers, the name became world-renowned.

Crystal Innovation

From the chandeliers that glitter in the Versailles to the Tour de France trophy to Rihanna's Fenty Collection that bore Czech crystals, these beautiful pieces of glass will never go out of style.

Today half of these crystals are created using machinery while the rest are still made by hand. The Preciosa Group (the merger of local crystal factories), now leads the production of glass stones and is one of the world's-leading glass manufacturers.

“We continue, without interruption, with the glassmaking tradition that started in Crystal Valley when the first kiln was fired up in 1548.”

— Preciosa

*Our designs are created using only crystals manufactured in the Czech Republic (Czechia) and Austria. We proudly support the local factories that continue to create stunning comments using the same traditions since the 1600s.

—Sweet Charm Elegance