Swarovski and Silhouette to go their separate ways in 2010

Silhouette International and precision-cut crystal company Swarovski have confirmed that they will no longer produce eyewear together from mid 2010.

The two Austrian manufacturers have worked together since 1996/97, producing Daniel Swarovski crystal eyewear at Silhouette's Linz plant, with approximately 1.5 million lifestyle and accessory frames sold.

Swarovski has said that in the future it wants to build an eyewear collection under the Swarovski brand, leading to the licence agreement with Silhouette ending in some 18 months.

Arnold Schmied, co-owner and board member of Silhouette international said: 'Swarovski involved us early in its decision-making process aimed at building a collection in the future under the Swarovski brand. This enabled us to decide jointly how to shape the final phase of our partnership - for the benefit of our contractual partners in the markets but above all for the benefit of crystal eyewear lovers.'