Swarovski Crystal Woodpeckers on Frosted Branch – SCS 1988 Annual Edition Figurine

This Swarovski Crystal Woodpeckers figurine was issued as the 1988 annual edition for members of the Swarovski Crystal Society (SCS). Featuring two finely faceted woodpeckers perched on a frosted branch, the piece reflects Swarovski’s early approach to combining clear crystal brilliance with contrasting matte elements.

Standing approximately 4 inches tall, the design captures both motion and balance, with the birds positioned in a natural, interacting pose rather than as isolated figures.

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Design & Craftsmanship

The woodpeckers are cut from clear lead crystal, with detailed faceting that reflects light across the body and wings. The frosted branch provides contrast, softening the composition and emphasizing the birds themselves.

This combination of:

• clear faceted crystal
• frosted supporting element

became a defining design language in Swarovski’s late 1980s animal series.

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Markings & Authenticity

• Stamped SCS 88 on the base
• Indicates Swarovski Crystal Society annual issue
• Confirms production year of 1988

This marking places the piece within the early SCS program, when annual editions were limited to members and produced in more controlled quantities than later mass-market releases.

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Condition

• No chips or cracks observed
• Clear crystal retains strong brilliance
• Frosted branch intact with no damage
• Structurally sound and well preserved

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Physical Details

• Height: Approx. 4 inches
• Width: Approx. 3 inches
• Material: Swarovski lead crystal
• Finish: Clear faceted crystal with frosted base

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The Rest of the Story…

This piece comes from the early years of the Swarovski Crystal Society, when annual editions were still closely tied to membership identity rather than broad retail distribution. In 1988, Swarovski was refining how to represent wildlife in crystal—not just as static forms, but as small scenes.

The choice of woodpeckers is deliberate. Unlike more common decorative animals, woodpeckers introduce movement and interaction, shown here through posture and positioning rather than exaggerated form. The frosted branch isn’t just a base—it represents a shift in Swarovski design toward combining texture with clarity.

Pieces from this period reflect a time when Swarovski was still defining its collectible language. Later designs would become more elaborate and widely distributed, but these earlier SCS editions remain grounded in simpler compositions with strong attention to proportion and light.

Specifications

• • Brand: Swarovski
  • Item: Woodpeckers Figurine
  • Collection: Swarovski Crystal Society (SCS)
  • Year: 1988 Annual Edition
  • Material: Lead Crystal
  • Height: Approx. 4 inches
  • Width: Approx. 3 inches
  • Condition: Pre-owned
  • Flaws: None – no chips or cracks observed

• Includes: Figurine only (no box or COA)
• Color: Clear crystal with frosted branch
• Finish: Faceted with matte frosted element
• Marking: SCS 88 stamped on base