During the communist era in Poland, crystal tableware was highly fashionable. Exquisite crystal glasses, tumblers, vases, and ashtrays were every hostess's pride, adorning tables and wall units. Over time, interest waned in favor of attractive and practical ceramic dishes. In recent seasons, crystal heirlooms have made a comeback, and demand for glamorous tableware is on the rise. Modern crystal – crystalline – is an innovative, defect-free version. What are the differences between these types of glass?
Coveted Crystals
Industrially produced crystal glass is already 400 years old! Although lead was added to glass mass in antiquity, it was not until the 17th century that the idea of using this material for tableware production, making it more widely available, emerged. This also led to new forms of decorating dishes. Heavy crystals were perfect for previously unseen engravings – they became true works of art. This refers not only to elaborate, geometric decorations but also to family crests and symbols rooted in European culture.
In the 18th century in Poland, King Augustus II the Strong ordered the construction of the first glassworks specializing in crystal production. This royal manufactory was followed by private initiatives that competed in creating elaborate decorations. This type of glass was used not only for vases, flacons, tumblers, and decanters but also, for example, beautiful chandeliers, and eventually mirrors. This material also became a very popular semi-finished product for jewelry.
The trend developed simultaneously throughout Europe, and crystal became a coveted item in royal courts and among the newly wealthy burghers. What distinguishes this material from ordinary glass, making it still admired and associated with luxury today?
Crystal, or lead glass
Crystal glass is technically called lead glass. This is due to the addition of lead oxides to the glass mass. The minimum content is 18%, but in the past, crystals with up to 80% lead oxides were known! Interestingly, years ago, arsenic was also on the list of ingredients for producing this material.
The addition of lead gave the glass new properties. Thanks to an increased refractive index and new possibilities for cutting and grinding, tableware began to shimmer uniquely, reflecting and refracting sunlight. The increased density of the material offered an unprecedented opportunity to carve extraordinary patterns. This was also facilitated by its susceptibility to acids, softness, as well as the viscosity and speed of melting and clarifying this type of glass mass.
Crystal, though exceptionally beautiful, also has its drawbacks. These include dulling, difficulty in cleaning, and inability to wash in a dishwasher or with stronger detergents. This material also reacts with acidic juices and alcohol. As one might guess, with a high lead content, using this type of glass for drinking or eating can lead to health problems, including lead poisoning, which was once quite common and dangerous. Moreover, this type of material is very harmful to the environment.
Although top-down standards have been introduced for the maximum lead content in tableware produced today, a much better choice is lead-free crystal glass, or crystalline. What are its characteristics?
Beautiful Crystalline, or Modern Lead-Free Crystal
Crystal tumblers can be entirely safe if they are made from a material called crystalline. This is a modern alternative to lead glass. Aesthetically, it is almost indistinguishable from it. Although it does not contain harmful lead oxides, it has similar properties related to plasticity and light reflection.
Crystal wine glasses can be a safe choice – unlike lead glass, crystalline is resistant to alkalis and acids, so it does not react with beverages. It is much harder and more durable than its predecessor. A significant advantage is also its practicality – dishes of this type can be washed in a dishwasher. It can be sculpted or plain, contain engraving or be completely transparent, allowing one to enjoy not only the aroma but also the color of the drink.
A specialist can recognize traditional crystal because its parameters are still not fully achievable for other materials. Both types of glass produce a similar pleasant sound, are heavy, and can be engraved as desired. They reflect light in a unique way and are given elaborate shapes. Therefore, it is definitely a better choice to opt for practical, ecological, and, above all, healthier crystalline – especially since only a trained eye can spot the difference between the old and new types of crystal!
Original crystalline glass tableware will feature:
- sonority,
- transparency,
- durability,
- wash resistance;
- lead-free composition.
For which types of tableware is crystalline used today?
Crystalline, or modern crystal glass from KROSNO
Lead-free KROSNO crystal glass will make a wonderful gift and an exceptional decoration for a home or office in a glamorous style. The brand continuously refines its products, and the offer includes various proposals created from crystalline glass. They can serve not only as an eye-catching ornament but also become an element of tableware that creates a unique atmosphere during gatherings with loved ones.
Without a doubt, every dining room should include heavy and decorative crystalline salad bowls. Regardless of whether they are filled with fruit, nuts, sweets, or dishes specially prepared for an occasion, they will add elegance to any table. It is also worth choosing shimmering platters that are impossible to take your eyes off. The room can be decorated daily with vases made of lead-free crystal, which can hold cut flowers or green branches.
The sonority, transparency, and functionality of crystalline make it an excellent material for wine glasses, carafes, tumblers, and decanters. It is a proven and versatile gift idea for holidays or birthdays. During gatherings with friends or a pleasant, solitary evening, these vessels create an atmosphere of elegance and emphasize the uniqueness of the moment.
Selected products from the ROMANCE collection made of KROSNO Crystalline lead-free crystal
See all products made of Crystalline lead-free crystal in KROSNO's offer.