Crystal vs Lead Crystal
Crystal and lead crystal are largely used for making glassware. Most often people are not aware of the difference between crystal and lead crystal glassware. The only difference that they know is that one of them contains lead.
Crystal is only a type of glass. They are very delicate than the regular glass. In order to give the crystals more stability and weight, lead is often added to it.
Both crystal and lead crystal glassware comprises of manganese, soda, silica sand and lime. Other materials like borax, arsenic and saltpeter are added to give color.
First of all let us look at the cost of the two. Lead crystal is priced higher than the crystals.
Lead crystal sparkles more than the crystals. This is because of the addition of lead oxide, which increases the refractive index. Unlike the crystals, the lead crystals are more clear and bright.
Lead crystal is blown and cut by the hand whereas crystals are machine made. As the lead crystals are hand made, it has added brilliance and sharp facets. On the other hand, the crystals have rounded edges.
When comparing the health issues, there is a saying that lead crystals are not good for the body as they contain lead. Though the warning is there, people prefer lead crystal to crystals as they are more beautiful. Another point that is sometimes raised is that alcohol should not be stored in lead crystal decanters. If alcohol is stored for more than three months, then there is a possibility that the lead oozes into the liquid.
The first crystals were traced around 500 B C in Mesopotamia. On the other hand, Lead crystal was discovered in 1674 after an English glassmaker changed the formula of making crystal glassware by substituting lead oxide for calcium.
Summary
1. Both crystal and lead crystal glassware comprises of manganese, soda, silica sand and lime. But in lead crystal, lead is also added.
2. Lead crystal is priced higher than the crystals.
3. The lead crystals have added brilliance and sharp facets. On the other hand, the crystals have rounded edges.
4. Lead crystal sparkles more than the crystals. Unlike the crystals, the lead crystals are more clear and bright.
5. When comparing the health issues, there is a saying that lead crystals are not good for the body as they contain lead.
6. The first crystals were traced around 500 B C in Mesopotamia. On the other hand, Lead crystal was discovered in 1674.