The world of collectible figurines often intersects with the gemstone industry in fascinating ways, particularly through the use of synthetic crystals to represent traditional birthstones. One of the most prominent examples of this is found in the Department 56 "Snowbabies" collection. These whimsical, cherubic snow figures have become a holiday staple for collectors worldwide. A specific subset of this collection, the "A Gift For You Birthstone Figurines," explicitly links these decorative objects to the calendar of traditional gemstones. By incorporating Swarovski crystals—renowned for their precision cut and brilliance—these figurines serve as miniature, stylized representations of the natural minerals that have captivated humanity for centuries.
While the Snowbabies collection itself is a product of modern manufacturing and artistic design, it offers a unique lens through which to view the enduring appeal of birthstones. The inclusion of specific crystals for months such as February (Amethyst), March (Aquamarine), and November (Topaz) transforms these porcelain figures into educational tools for gemology enthusiasts. They highlight the color associations that are fundamental to the identity of many gemstones. This article explores the intersection of these popular collectibles with the science and history of the gemstones they represent, drawing upon the available data regarding the Snowbabies collection and the crystals used within it.
The Evolution of Snowbabies and Their Gemstone Connection
Department 56, a company primarily known for its intricate ceramic lighted villages, introduced the Snowbabies line to capture a different market segment: those looking for smaller, more portable decorative items. According to the company's description, each Snowbabies piece is "carefully designed to ensure a sentiment of love, friendship and inspiration," with each piece telling "its own story" [2]. This narrative approach has resonated deeply with collectors, creating an emotional attachment that goes beyond mere decoration.
The "A Gift For You Birthstone Figurines" series represents a specific evolution within this line. These pieces are not merely decorative; they are coded with gemological significance. The available auction records detail a lot containing figurines for the months of February, March, and November. Specifically, the February figure features an Amethyst Swarovski Crystal, the March figure an Aquamarine Swarovski Crystal, and the November figure a Topaz Swarovski Crystal [1]. This selection aligns perfectly with the traditional birthstone chart used in Western culture.
The use of Swarovski crystals is a critical detail. Swarovski, an Austrian company founded in 1895, revolutionized the crystal manufacturing industry by inventing a specialized cutting machine that allowed for unprecedented precision and facets. When Department 56 integrates these crystals into their Snowbabies, they are utilizing a high-quality synthetic material that mimics the optical properties of natural gemstones. For the gemologist or enthusiast, these figurines are a study in color representation. The deep violet of the Amethyst, the pale blue of the Aquamarine, and the golden hue of the Topaz are captured in crystal form, offering a visual reference for these specific gem varieties.
Historical Context of the Associated Gemstones
To understand the significance of the crystals chosen for the Snowbabies collection, one must look to the long history of the birthstones they represent. The concept of wearing a specific gemstone corresponding to one's month of birth has roots in ancient civilizations, most notably the Breastplate of Aaron described in the Old Testament, which featured twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. This practice evolved over centuries into the modern birthstone list, which standardizes these associations.
Amethyst: The February Stone
The Amethyst Swarovski crystal used in the February Snowbabies figurine represents a gemstone that has been prized since antiquity. Historically, Amethyst was considered a "cardinal gem," equal in value to Ruby, Emerald, and Sapphire. Its name is derived from the Greek word amethystos, meaning "not intoxicated," reflecting the ancient belief that the stone could prevent drunkenness. The color of natural Amethyst, a variety of quartz, ranges from a light lavender to a deep, royal purple. The Swarovski crystal used in the figurine likely aims to replicate this rich, regal purple hue, which has been associated with royalty and spirituality throughout history.
Aquamarine: The March Stone
The Aquamarine Swarovski crystal represents the sea-blue variety of the mineral beryl. The name itself comes from the Latin aqua marina, meaning "sea water," a nod to its tranquil blue-green color. Historically, Aquamarine was believed to be a treasure of mermaids and was used by sailors as a talisman for good luck and safe passage across treacherous waters. As a member of the beryl family, it shares its lineage with the emerald. The Snowbabies figurine captures this connection to the ocean and the sky through its use of a light blue crystal, evoking the clarity and coolness of water.
Topaz: The November Stone
The Topaz Swarovski crystal for the November figurine represents a gemstone known for its wide range of colors, though it is most famously associated with a rich golden yellow. The word Topaz is believed to derive from the Sanskrit tapas, meaning "fire." While natural Topaz can be found in a variety of shades including pink and blue, the yellow variety is the traditional birthstone for November. The golden hue of the Swarovski crystal used in the Snowbabies collection reflects this traditional association with warmth and fire, a fitting theme for the autumn and holiday season during which these figurines are most prominently displayed.
The Intersection of Collectibles and Gemology
The Snowbabies birthstone figurines occupy a unique space where mass-produced decorative art meets the world of mineralogy. While these figurines are not made of natural gemstones, their existence highlights the cultural importance of the birthstone tradition. For a collector, the appeal lies in the combination of the Snowbabies' charm and the specific, personalized nature of the birthstone. A collector born in March might be drawn to the Aquamarine figurine not just for its aesthetic appeal, but for the personal connection to the gemstone.
This phenomenon is not limited to Snowbabies. The auction data also references Swarovski's own crystal figurines, such as the "Red Tulip" and "Blue Tulip," which utilize the company's expertise in crystal cutting to create botanical forms [1]. However, the Snowbabies collection is distinct in its explicit use of the birthstone nomenclature. It serves as a bridge, introducing the names and colors of natural gemstones to a broad audience that might not otherwise engage with gemology.
The materials used—porcelain for the figurine body and Swarovski crystal for the "gem"—also offer a point of comparison for gemology students. Swarovski crystals are lead glass, engineered for maximum brilliance and clarity. They differ significantly from natural crystals in terms of hardness (Mohs hardness around 7 for Swarovski, compared to 7 for Amethyst, 7.5-8 for Topaz, and 7.5 for Aquamarine), specific gravity, and refractive index. Yet, their role in these figurines is purely aesthetic: to mimic the color and sparkle of the natural stone.
Care and Maintenance of Crystal-Adorned Figurines
For collectors of Snowbabies and similar crystal-decorated items, understanding the care requirements is essential. Although the Swarovski crystals used are durable, they are often glued to the porcelain surface. The porcelain itself is fired at high temperatures but can be chipped if mishandled.
Standard gemological care advice applies here, albeit with a focus on the composite object. Cleaning should be done with a soft, lint-free cloth. Harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners should be avoided, as they can damage the finish of the porcelain or cloud the surface of the lead glass crystal. Water and mild soap are sufficient for removing dust. Storage is also important; these figurines should be kept in their original boxes, as evidenced by the high value placed on items that retain their packaging in auction listings [1]. The original boxes provide protection from dust, physical impact, and light, which is generally not a concern for lead glass but is a best practice for collectible ceramics.
Conclusion
The Department 56 Snowbabies "A Gift For You Birthstone Figurines" represent a charming convergence of decorative art and the ancient tradition of birthstones. By incorporating Swarovski crystals that mirror the colors of Amethyst, Aquamarine, and Topaz, these figurines celebrate the aesthetic beauty of gemstones. While they are synthetic representations rather than natural minerals, they play a significant role in popularizing the names and visual identities of these gems. For the gemstone enthusiast, they serve as a reminder of the enduring cultural power of birthstones—a power that transcends even natural mineralogy to find expression in porcelain and lead glass.
Sources
- Live Auctioneers - Various listings regarding Snowbabies and Swarovski figurines. https://www.liveauctioneers.com/price-result/3-snowbabies-a-gift-for-you-birthstone-figurines/
- Department 56 - Snowbabies Collection Information. https://department56.com/pages/snowbabies