How two small crystal figures inspired a grandmother to quit smoking and create one of the most valuable single-owner Swarovski collections ever to reach the market.
Swarovski Crystal Elegance of Africa 2023, Cheetah Mehira 5636241 in clear bronze tone colour, estimated at £200 – £400
What started with a toddler’s innocent play session became a life-changing moment that would span four decades. In 1987, when Yvonne Oriel discovered her two-year-old granddaughter enthusiastically banging together two crystal hedgehogs, she knew she’d need to invest in some storage options.
Rather than simply moving the valuable pieces out of reach, this devoted Swarovski collector made a decision that would add years to her life: she quit smoking to fund a proper display cabinet for her growing collection.
A 40-Year Journey Worth £20,000
Now, following Yvonne’s passing at age 90, her extraordinary collection comes to auction at Potteries Auctions on September 11th 2025. The comprehensive 100+ lot collection represents one of the most significant single-owner Swarovski collections ever to reach the auction market.
Why this collection matters for any serious Swarovski collector:
- Swarovski Crystal Society exclusives – Yvonne’s membership provided access to rare, limited-edition pieces
- Four decades of dedicated collecting – Spanning the brand’s most iconic periods
- Pristine provenance – Single-owner collection with heavily documented history
- Standout pieces – Including Paradise Birds series and Disney collaborations
The Star Pieces Every Swarovski Collector Wants
Among the valuable highlights heading to auction:
Paradise Roller Bird sculpture (£200-£400) – This elegant centrepiece showcases Swarovski’s mastery of colour and light, featuring black, amber, and turquoise crystal work on a silver-tone stand.
Kingfisher from Paradise Birds collection (£300-£600) – A stunning example of the brand’s nature-inspired designs, complete with original box and certificate of authenticity.
Disney figurines including Daisy Duck (left) and Mickey Sorcerer (£325-£650 each) – These coveted pieces from Swarovski’s beloved Disney collaboration are increasingly rare at auction.
And yes, those meaningful hedgehogs (back row- to be included in a lot of other crystal animals) – The crystal figures that sparked a healthier lifestyle choice and launched a legendary collection.
From Civil Servant to Crystal Connoisseur
Born in Milford Haven in 1935, Yvonne worked as a civil servant until retiring in the late 1990s. She lived happily in Abercynon, South Wales, with her beloved husband whom she married at 18. Her granddaughter Leanne Gething recalls spending countless childhood hours with both grandparents, creating treasured family memories.
Leanne with her grandmother Yvonne on her wedding day
“The Swarovski collection didn’t just bring my grandmother joy – it prolonged her life,” explains Gething, who is consigning the collection. “Those hedgehogs represent so much more than crystal figures. They represent the moment beautiful objects inspired a healthier choice.”
This collection will be auctioned on Thursday, 11th September at our Silverdale saleroom. The catalogue can be viewed in full below.
How to sell Swarovski crystal pieces at auction
At Potteries Auctions, we identify and provide valuations on Swarovski pieces to help get the best value for your items.
Please fill in our online valuation form if you’re looking for an expert evaluation and are looking to sell your collection.
Our team of expert valuers are available every Tuesday from 9am-3:30pm at our Silverdale saleroom, where they can value your Swarovski collection and advise you on consigning to auction. To book a free appointment, use our online form here.
You can also email us at enquiries@potteriesauctions.com, or call us on 01782 638100 for further information or any enquiries.