What is Crystal?

Last posting, we touched on the elegance of crystal. Today, we will explore that topic further. First, exactly what is crystal?

The art of glassmaking has been practiced for over 2000 years. But in 1676, this art was changed when an English glassmaker, George Ravenscroft, discovered that he could make a product harder and clearer by adding lead oxide to the melted glass. The new glass had a higher luster, was dramatically heavier, had an increase in the index of refraction, and was easier to cut without fracturing. This allowed the glassmaker to make more elaborate designs in the face of the crystal.

By the dawn of the 20th century the production of cut lead crystal was slowly declining as lower cost imitation molded and pressed glass became routinely produced for the masses. However molded glass cannot compare to real cut leaded crystal. Crystal is so much more detailed, with a brilliant luster and it’s sharpness and clarity cannot be compared with these lower cost imitations. Also these imitations often have rough surfaces and mold lines that would never be found on true cut lead crystal.

Properly cut lead crystal has the magnificent ability to disperse light with almost a diamond like brilliance. The brilliant colors of refracted sunlight passing through a fine piece of deep cut lead crystal are simply captivating!

Next posting - Making & Cutting Crystal

Item shown is a semi-flush crystal basket #30204S22, excluisvely available at Lighting One showrooms. Visit http://www.lighting-one.com/ to find your closest retailer.