An Overview when Buying Crystal
It is time to take a new look at crystal. Forget the image of family heirlooms languishing in the china closet. A new generation of contemporary design is evolving from old world favorites and new comers alike. Crystal is once again desirable in many households and makes for an ideal item in gift giving.
There is one major difference between glass and crystal to know. Crystal is glass that has a mixture of lead oxide added to increase the light refraction index of ordinary glass. Additionally the use of lead oxide makes the crystal heavier but anything more than 32% lead oxide would cause the crystal to lose its luster.
Crystal is categorized into three main groupings based upon its content of lead oxide:
Fine Crystal or Crystalline - A glass mixture containing 5% - 10% lead oxide. Leaded Crystal - A glass mixture that contains 10% - 24% lead oxide. Full-Leaded Crystal - A glass mixture that contains 24% lead oxide or more.
According to archeologist’s recent discoveries, it is believed that the Mesopotamians may have been the premier fans of crystal in the 16th century BC. Other civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans soon followed with artistic creations made from glass.
By 1676, an Englishman named George Ravenscroft, experimented with lead oxide by mixing silica sand. This brought lead crystal a major step closer to its mass production of today.
The influential deemed that all personal belongings were vital modules to the elements of life. Crystal was considered an important component in the life cycle of the four elements: Earth, Fire, Wind and Water. Nobility and the elite of society believe crystal to be a luxury and a necessity that only they could afford.
The 20th century became the century in which the most common basis of owning crystal was geared towards weddings and anniversaries. Crystal seemed almost compulsory to be on every bride-to-be’s gift registry.
Presently, the ownership of fine crystal caters for every individual style, personality and preference, be it classic or modern, bold or demure. From conventional water pitchers to novel flutes to sleek works of art, it’s the kind of craftsmanship and design that’s perfectly at home in any existing setting.
Simply put, crystal is glass that is more desirable for the consumer. It always has been and always will continue to be the clear choice of yesterday, today and tomorrow as a gift.
Check the finest and popular manufacturers when shopping for crystal. Always obtain a certificate of authenticity when purchasing as you want to rest assured that you have the true item and not an imitation made of poor quality.
- Baccarat
From France, sought after Baccarat began going into production in 1816 when it lit its first crystal oven. The ingenious handcrafted works of art are still of the highest quality with its value steadily rising.
- Nambé
Nambé, the newest of domestic luxury, is named after an ancient village near Santa Fe, New Mexico. Established in 1953, it introduced its crystal collection in 1998. In this short period, the company is recognized worldwide for its award-winning designs in crystal.
- Royal Leerdam Crystal
Hailing from the Netherlands, this less known crystal stemware and decorative bowls has a deep history beginning as a glass factory in 1765. Their crystal products contain 30 % lead oxide with modernism flair in design. Custom made pieces can be created to suit your taste.
- Steuben Glass
Steuben for art in engraved design crystal is the one to seek out. Early beginnings, at the turn of the century were set into motion in Corning, New York. Today several pieces are part of the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
- Swarovski
It is believed that Austrian crystal is one of the best because it contains 30% lead oxide. Swarovski is primarily known for their crystal stones and figurines but they do carry stemware and decorative bowls.
- Waterford Crystal
Waterford Crystal began manufacturing in 1873 and traces its roots to the town of the same name in Ireland. The ball that falls on New Years Eve each year in Times Square was manufactured by Waterford. Their crystal and fame make them synonymous as one of the finest and largest seller of crystal in the world.
