The extraordinarily popular 5301 bicone will soon be replaced by article 5328 in the same size range and depth of colors. (Only the tiny 2.5 mm bicone will remain unchanged.) CRYSTALLIZEDTM Swarovski Elements article 5328 has the XILION upgrade previously seen in a few flat back shapes giving the new bicone more and differently sized facets than the 5301. The XILION cut results in even more brilliance and greater light reflection.
This is a soft roll out for Swarovski. Because of the logistics of replacing 1000's of size and color combinations not everyone will be available at first. Swarovski may have samples at the upcoming Bead and Button show but most dealers will not have stock until June at the earliest. Some dealers may build up deep stocks of 5301 trusting that some customers want to stay with the existing shape. Others may wind 5301 stock down trusting that their customers will be excited to have the new item.
If you are a Rings & Things customer and want to stock up on the existing style 5301 now is the time to let us know your needs. Our factory pack pricing makes quantity buying very affordable. After September 30 we may not be able to restock 5301's that are sold out. On the other hand, until late September we can not order the new 5328 for some items where Swarovski has a large existing stock of 5301. They want to sell through the existing 5301 before releasing the 5328.
The new 5328 bicone will be available from most sellers at the same price as the current 5301. Swarovski says they are making the copyrighted change to differentiate this from all other products on the market. The increased number of facets enhances the overall appearance of the bead and the rounder belt line results in improved wearing comfort of the finished design. The 2.5mm 5301 will not change because it is not practical to add more facets to the tiny size
Can the 2 beads work together? For most applications, the 5301 and 5328 XILION Bead can be combined, as their dimensions and geometry are complimentary. Some designers may be able to intermix the 2 styles in the same color, others will want to complete projects with existing 5301's.
When will this happen? Swarovski plans to start shipping 5328s in June, and have a full transition before the end of the year. Most 5328 items are planned to ship by the end of September 2009.
The bead on the left is the new XILION 5328. On the right 5301 - both in AB finish.
"CRYSTALLIZEDTM Swarovski Elements" is Swarovski's new brand for their line of beads and crystal components.
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