What’s the difference between Glass & Crystal?

Typically, the difference between crystal and glass is the amount of lead included. Adding a lead content of 24% or more to glass is how crystal is usually created. However, the potential health risks associated have made people turn towards safer lead-free crystal glass, created by using barium, zinc or potassium oxide.

Even with the lead content replaced, crystal still looks just as gorgeous with the same level of brilliance and clarity. So, whether it’s for a dinner party or just a casual drink with someone special, you can still expect the same sparkle as light dances across the crystalware.

Lead-free crystal’s firmness makes it the best for engraving which means that extremely fine details can be added and leads to beautiful pieces. This can be seen on the crystal Champagne Saucers featuring Rachel Bates’ lace cap hydrangea design or the Moira Double Old Fashioned Tumbler which is adorned with the Corali signature design.

How to tell the difference between crystal and glass

Purchasing crystalware is an investment that will stay in your family for generations, but if you want to make sure your buying proper, quality crystalware, then it’s important to know the tell-tale differences that separate these pieces from regular glass.

There are plenty of ways used by the experts to determine which is which. One of the easiest methods is to take an item and hold it up to a light source. If it is crystal, then you should be able to see a rainbow prism effect. Alongside this, crystalware will be naturally heavier than its standard counterpart. So, if you’re comparing two glasses of the same size, the difference in weight is typically a tell-tale sign.

Another method is to gently tap the glass, if you hear a musical ring with a slight echo, then it is crystal. If not, then it’s more than likely a regular glass. The tone is also an indicator of how much lead features in the crystal, the longer the tone the higher the content.

You may have seen videos where talented musicians play melodies with glasses filled with water. Well, this same method can be used to identify a crystal glass. If noise is made when you run a wet finger around the rim of the glass, then it’s crystal.

I’ve just launched my latest signature design, the gorgeous Corali crystal collection, inspired by the gorgeous coral reefs around the world and intricately designed for your finest drinks. Even better, all my crystal is completely free of lead and has been created to stay in your family for generations to come. So, take a look at the entire crystalware range today and make sure every sip you take is as luxurious as the last.