Do Swarovski crystal beads contain lead?
Yes, it does! And yes, it is the lead that you always hear about in paint and other substances that can poison the body. It is estimated that Swarovski crystal beads contain about 32% lead or lead oxide in them. The lead is used to maximize the way the light refracts through the crystal which gives them an almost diamond-like sparkling quality. Do all crystal beads also contain lead? No, but some do. To be advertised as “lead crystal” the European standards dictate that there must be 30% or more lead contained within the crystal. Anything below that amount can just be advertised as “crystal.” Is the lead in Swarovski crystal beads dangerous? Generally, no, though you may want to wash your hands and be sure to keep lead crystal of any sort out of your mouth and away from children. Lead is toxic if it is ingested or otherwise introduced into the bloodstream, but simply touching crystal lead jewelry will not expose you to enough lead to be toxic. Swarovski has made statements (see below!)
