Instantly recognizable all over the world, Hello Kitty resonates with fans of all ages. She has been introduced in 1974 and became a global icon. Known for her iconic features and signature bow over her left ear, creating the Hello Kitty pieces called for all of Swarovski’s technical expertise. Now the time has come for her to shine even more, with a unique collaboration between Sanrio and Swarovski. Swarovski’s first ever Hello Kitty collection was launched beginning August 2011. Sanrio claims that Hello Kitty is not a cat, she is a little Japanese girl. The figure, which is officially called Kitty White, would be "a cheerful and happy little girl with a heart of gold."