*Update 8/17/12*
After only a couple of wearings, one of pins to the crystal embedded balls came dislodged so apparently first impressions do matter still. Even if it can be re-attached I am not confident merely normal wear will not result in the same outcome. My updated rating is one star.

*Original review*
I fondly recall the time when opening a box of cracker jacks held the promise of a REAL prize so receiving this bracelet stapled to a cardboard strip and wrapped in fruit roll-up cellophane packaging did promote contraditory warm feelings but I snapped out of my jaunt down memory lane after a few seconds when it dawned on me those good ole candy coated popcorn box surprises also felt weightier too.

The Swarovski name is renowned with crystal products, so although I am not a big fan of costume jewelry and believe stainless steel is a better option for flatware than accent jewelry I was still preconditioned to anticipate substantially more than I experienced upon seeing this piece.

Yet, the truism there is no accounting for taste proved its' perpetual validity when as is customary the actual wearer of this bracelet duly informed me I didn't have a clue and with equally as consistent reluctance to own up to my misinformed perceptions, once the bracelet adorned her wrist it was clearly evident my first impressions MAY have been harsh.

While the crystal chips embedded on three balls are difficult to distinguish with the naked eye, the alternating setting with two intermingled stainless stain balls results in a brilliant display, in a late 70's disco ball vibe kind of way. The locking lobster clasp with chain link expansion will accommodate most wrist sizes and seems secure however I still harbor some reservations regarding the long term durability of the stainless steel links. Although a higher price point undoubtedly would have resulted, I would have preferred sterling silver or white gold.

So, on the journey from underwhelmed to prodded recognition, for the price this bracelet is a reasonably good purchase.  I just hope the retail packaging is a bit more impressive. A velvet drawstring pouch couldn't be that costly.