Swarovski carries on a 15-year tradition this November by once again topping off the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. This year, the Star was treated to a dazzling makeover – the first in its history – by architect Daniel Libeskind. To announce the dynamic new design, Executive Board Member Nadja Swarovski joined Libeskind in Rockefeller Plaza for a heartwarming Star raising ceremony.

“Each holiday season the Star brings joy to New Yorkers and visitors from around the world and will shine as a beacon of hope for many years to come,” she remarked. 

Inspired by the beauty of starlight, the new Swarovski Star dazzles with 3 million crystals on 70 LED-lit spikes that burst outward from its core. It weighs in at 900 pounds, stands 9 feet 4 inches tall in diameter and features dramatic lines akin to Libeskind’s architectural aesthetic.

A to-scale replica, similarly made with 3 million crystals, will sit ground level at Rockefeller Plaza for visitors to experience its wonder in detail.

Libeskind also put his talents to work creating a pop-up where Swarovski and Atelier Swarovski gifts will be available for purchase throughout the holiday season. Like its tree-topper sibling, the ‘Star Boutique’ takes inspiration from the cosmos.

“The crystalline form is star-like and will celebrate the beauty, energy and light of New York City,” Libeskind noted.

Glass panels and video screens complete the design, spreading a cheerful message to “#sparkdelight” during the festive season.

Those interested in Libeskind’s stellar creations can shop his new Atelier Swarovski Home holiday ornament collection featuring laser-etched star silhouettes.

He commented, “We wanted to encapsulate the radiance and energy of starlight in something everyone could have and make a part of their own holiday tradition.”