PLATTSBURGH, NY, JANUARY 14, 2005 –- Contemporary crystal lighting entered a new phase this January at the Dallas market when Schonbek unveiled two new chandelier designs, called Jasmine and Rhiannon.
“Crystal has the potential,” said President & CEO Andrew Schonbek, “to be absolutely free of imperfections. We have all seen crystal pendants of perfect clarity. But a large solid block of flawless crystal is a rarity.
“Our new chandeliers make use of just such rare and flawless crystal. We call it optic crystal because of its absolute optical purity.”
Optic crystal is rough-cut with diamond-toothed saws and then meticulously hand-cut and polished to achieve silky smooth surfaces and razor-sharp faceting.
“The massive crystal centerpiece,” said Schonbek, “is a marvel of refinement with large angular facets that produce expansive rainbows of spectral light. Bobeches are oversized chunks of faceted crystal resting on Black Pearl spheres. Even the candles are crystalline, made of Polished Silver candle slips clad with crystal.”
Contrasting with the colossal crystal are slender, sinuous arms with a two-tone finish of Polished Silver and Black Pearl.
“Jasmine,” said Schonbek, “echoes the basic anatomy of a classic crystal chandelier, but all extraneous embellishment has been avoided. The simplicity of the design reveals the beauty and value of the crystal. This design will work in both eclectic and minimalist environments.
“Rhiannon is ultra edgy with its dramatic swooping arms. It will appeal to a designer who enjoys working with daring shapes and exotic materials.”
Jasmine and Rhiannon are complete design families with a full range of chandelier sizes. There are three crystal color options: Topaz, Sapphire and Clear.
View Jasmine
View Rhiannon
