A Brief History of Crystal Cut Glass
The English glassmaker George Ravenscroft, while searching for a way to improve the luster and clarity of his crystal glassware, found that by adding lead oxide to his molten mixture he could not only improve the clarity of the glass but greatly increase the weight, this was a major discovery. Although crystal glass has been around for over 2000 years, true lead crystal has only been in existence since the late 17th century. |
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An added benefit of using lead oxide in the manufacturing of this new crystal glass was that it also made it more robust. The ability to cut this new lead glass material without it fracturing was a certainly a major asset.
This discovery created a boom in the glass industry in Britain, which eventually then spread throughout Europe and later America. In the United States there were over 200 factories producing lead crystal glass by the late 19th century.
In the early days only the wealthy could afford to own quality lead crystal. However, with modern techniques and mass production, it became readily available to all, no longer a luxury for the few, but an affordable luxury that most people could enjoy in it's various forms. So what type of crystal appeals to you ? more...
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Glasses
Crystal glass drinking vessels come in all shapes and sizes. Created for each specific drink, the glass is designed to enhance your enjoyment of your favorite drink. Tall, slender and curvy or short square and multi-faceted, lead crystal glass looks exceptional and feels luxurious with it's noticable weight. more..
For more excellent examples visit wineglass
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Ships Decanter
We immediately think of quality and elegance when we admire an absolutely stunning crystal glass decanter. The various styles, shapes and sizes can amaze us. We can only muse over the skill of the craftsmen who produce these beautiful crystal decanters in such variety.
When you admire your wine, whiskey or brandy in such a vessel, your appreciation for crystal soars. This is an excellent example of a lovely 'Ships Decanter', a real treat to the senses. more..
For more excellent examples visit Decanter
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Figurines
Ever more popular are the crystal cut glass figurines that radiate light and beautify in any home or office. There are an incredible variety of subjects that can be modelled in crystal glass and these have become ever more collectable and can be found in the most homes. more..
If you admire quality, you should view the many different varieties of beautiful crystal glass figurines, visit Figurines
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Jewelry
With the addition of subtle colors, styles and shapes, crystal cut glass jewelry has become the new gem of choice. Extremely eye catching, crystal jewelry enhances the beauty of any outfit and of course, makes the wearer look and feel very special indeed. Crystal jewelry, when cut by a master craftsmen, sparkles like the most beautiful of gemstones. No wonder so many choose to wear crystal jewelry. more..
See more examples at Jewelry
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Chandeliers
What home is complete without a stunning Crystal Chandelier ?
Handmade to impress, this outstanding elegant example of shimmering clear lead crystal glass is really a beauty to behold.
You may be amazed at the variety now available today with the addition of modern styles and colors. From traditional to modern, from elegant to colorful fun styles, the choice of crystal cut glass chandelier is personal and sometimes difficult to make, but it's fun trying ! more..
For more fine examples visit Chandelier
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Of course there are many excellent reference books in our Bookstore
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