Midcentury Opaline and Brass Pendants Czech Republic, 1970s

The Preciosa glass company is known for its pristine Bohemian crystal and elegant lighting. Considered the premier crystal and glass company in the Czech Republic, it creates striking pieces favored by collectors around the world. Its elaborate crystal flower chandeliers and simple globe pendants carry a rich tradition of glassmaking that dates back nearly 500 years. 

In 1948, a group of five large glass companies and several smaller workshops merged in the Czech city of Jablonec nad Nisou to become Preciosa. Formed under the Communist regime, Preciosa began as a labor camp. The government forced prisoners to work in the factory, often under poor conditions.

The fall of Communism in 1989 led to the company’s privatization. It was brought into private practice by Ludvík Karl, the same manager who ran Preciosa under Communist rule.

In 1993, the largest lighting manufacturer in the Czech Republic — Lustry Kamenický Šenov Inc. — merged with Preciosa to become a subsidiary. That year, the company put forth many initiatives to help nonprofits and charities across the country, as well as contribute to the development of science, research and professional training.

Preciosa later partnered with the nation’s Research Institute of Glass and Jewelry to develop its own lab and innovate in the industry.

Today, Preciosa operates as a group, associated with a number of subsidiary organizations bearing the Preciosa name: Preciosa Inc., Preciosa–Chandeliers Inc., Preciosa Figurines Ltd. and Preciosa Ornela Inc. It continues to create the finest in Bohemian crystal and exports its vibrantly ornate lighting fixtures internationally.

On 1stDibs, browse a selection of Preciosa chandeliers, wall lights and floor lamps.