Swarovski Celebrates 130 Years with 'Masters of Light – Hollywood' Exhibition

The Austrian powerhouse Swarovski is marking its 130th anniversary with a series of high-profile events designed to highlight its profound influence across the realms of high fashion and cinema. The cornerstone of these celebrations is the grand opening of the "Masters of Light – Hollywood" exhibition, set to debut in Los Angeles on October 28, 2025. This immersive presentation, which has already captivated audiences in global hubs such as Vienna, Milan, Shanghai, and Seoul, has been specially reimagined and tailored for its Hollywood run.

This extensive retrospective offers visitors a deep dive into the brand's storied history, tracing its origins back to 1895. The exhibition effectively charts how Swarovski has been instrumental in shaping the visual lexicon of both popular culture and the fashion industry over more than a century. By showcasing its evolution, the display underscores the enduring legacy of the crystal manufacturer in defining modern glamour and sparkle.

The Los Angeles iteration is hosted at the renowned Amoeba Music venue. The exhibition was curated by British fashion journalist Alexander Fury and developed under the creative direction of Global Creative Director Giovanna Engelbert. Visitors navigate nine distinct thematic halls, each illuminating a specific facet of the brand's mastery in manipulating light through its signature crystals.

Among the most dazzling exhibits are several iconic garments that have cemented their place in cultural history. These include the famous dress worn by Marilyn Monroe when she sang her legendary "Happy Birthday, Mr. President" to John Kennedy, alongside Nicole Kidman’s elaborate costume from the film "Moulin Rouge!". In total, 41 spectacular ensembles are on display. This collection comprises 7 costumes sourced directly from cinema, 5 pieces of haute couture, 8 bespoke looks crafted specifically by Swarovski, and 21 outfits previously worn by global pop icons, including Madonna, Harry Styles, Beyoncé, Tina Turner, Grace Jones, and Carey Mulligan.

Technical brilliance is showcased in the dedicated Masters of Light hall, which features the largest cabochon crystal ever produced by the brand. This monumental piece weighs approximately 75 kilograms. Achieving its perfect form required meticulous effort: 180 hours were dedicated solely to cutting its 156 precise facets. Furthermore, the exhibition includes the "Jewelry Box," personally curated by Giovanna Engelbert, which houses 286 precious items. This collection serves as a visual timeline, illustrating the continuous evolution of Swarovski’s design aesthetic.

To commemorate the significant milestone of 130 years, Swarovski has released special collectible items. These include a commemorative star featuring 190 facets and the distinctive Aurora Boreale shimmering effect, complete with a gold-plated tag engraved with "130 years." Beyond the celebration, the exhibition carries a vital philanthropic component: all proceeds generated from the $10 ticket sales will be directed to the Baby2Baby organization, supporting its mission to provide essential resources to children living in poverty.