FAQs
What is Crystal? |
| Crystal is a form of glass that has Lead Oxide (PbO) in its chemical composition. The purpose of Lead Oxide is to increase the density of glass, which in turn, increases the refractive properties. When it is cut and polished, it creates more colors and sparkle than regular glass. The higher percentage of Lead Oxide in the composition of crystal, the more colors are reflected from it. Cutting and polishing techniques are also very important. In the old days, they were cut and polished by hand which left scratch marks and imperfections on the surface of the crystals, today, with the use of computer controlled high precision equipments, crystals are cut and polished perfect just like diamonds to achieve the maximum amount of sparkle and luster. |
Following are the different qualities of crystal in the market today |
Strass Crystal : Manufactured by Swarovski A.G. located in Austria. It is known as the best quality crystal in the world. It has 30% Lead Oxide content and it is precision machine cut and polished. Each crystal piece has a Strass Logo engraved on it to protect its authenticity. Full Lead Crystal : This is also one of the best quality crystals in the market today. It has 30% Lead Oxide content and it is also precision machine cut and polished which gives it razor sharp facets, pure optical clarity and lots of colors. Swarovski Spectra : Manufactured by Swarovski A.G. a new addition to Crystal Market. It has no Lead Oxide content but it is precision machine cut and polished which still gives it colors and brilliance. Bohemian Hand Cut Crystal : This crystal is manufactured by the old fashion way of cutting and polishing by hand. The Lead Oxide content varies greatly but it is usually around 24%. Due to the lack of Lead Oxide and not being cut and polished in a precise fashion, it lacks the brilliance and the colors of the above crystals. Italian Crystal : This crystal has no Lead Oxide content and it is not cut and polished. It is simply glass melted in molds shaped as crystals and fire polished, not machine or hand polished. It is the most economic crystal in the market today. It shows no color and brilliance. It is also known as the Venetian Crystal. STRASS AND SPECTRA ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF SWAROVSKI AG. |
