Swarovski dazzles in Vegas; shoppers can ‘barter’ for goods at new store

Las Vegas -- A giant “starburst ” a 14-ft.-diameter structure composed of 911 custom-cut Swarovski crystal spheres that put on a dazzling show at midnight, is the sparkling centerpiece of Las Vegas’ newest retail destination, Grand Bazaar Shops. The starburst, was created for — and towers above—the outdoor center’s new Swarovski store, whose exterior is composed of dozens of large, angular facets designed to make it resemble a cut crystal.



In keeping with the Grand Bazaar theme, the boutique features Swarovski’s first-ever “bartering window,” allowing shoppers to negotiate the price they pay for select items. Among the items slated to be featured in the barter window are limited-edition pieces such as crystallized Beats Headphones; a Martin custom-designed crystal classic acoustic guitar; a Gibson Les Paul electric guitar and crystallized white, black and pink skulls. The merchandise terms which visitors can barter will change from day to day.



Every midnight, the starburst puts on a three-minute light-and-sound show with the light choreographed to music. A large video screen is embedded into the façade of the Swarovski boutique. Evocative scenes from exotic bazaars, together with the Starburst’s more than 1,800 points of LED light, are choreographed to the original score.



The store interior boasts hand-selected finishes — such as linen, paper and burlap forms and inlays — throughout, as well as crystal-enhanced glass spheres suspended from the ceiling. Specially crafted panels provide an artful platform for the presentation of Swarovski jewelry and décor.