CRYSTAL, CRYSTALLINE, OR GLASS

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE

Key difference: Glass is a generic name, while, crystal is a subcategory of glass, made in the same manner as glass but with different materials. Hence, all crystal is glass, but not all glass is crystal. There are three primary criteria for crystal as established by the European Union in 1969: a lead content in excess of 24%, a density in excess of 2.90 and a reflective index of 1.545.

While, referring in the same context as glass, crystal does refer to glass. The term crystal is often used to refer to glassware that has a more elegant form than the normal or everyday glassware. However, that is not the official difference between the two. Actually, there is no official clean cut definition of crystal. Still, the general rule that applies is that crystal is a type of glass that contains lead.

The primary difference between crystal vs. glass is that crystal glass contains anywhere from 2–30% minerals (lead or lead-free). The key feature of crystal wine glasses is that the minerals strengthen the material, making it possible to produce durable but thin wine glasses. Lead crystal also offers magnificent clarity and brilliance.

Crystalline is also known as lead-free crystal and is made up to 24% minerals such as magnesium and barium oxide to enhance clarity and add strength. Crystalline crystal is a remarkable substitute for lead crystal.

The primary difference between crystal vs. glass is that crystal glass contains anywhere from 2–30% minerals (lead or lead-free). The key feature of crystal wine glasses is that the minerals strengthen the material, making it possible to produce durable but thin wine glasses.

Crystal

  • Refracts light (e.g. sparkly)
  • more durable; rim can be made very thin
  • Is porous and usually not dishwasher safe
  • lead and lead-free options
  • Expensive ($$$)

Glass

  • Typically more affordable ($)
  • Is non-porous and dishwasher safe
  • Borosilicate glass provides high-end durable glass option

How do you tell if it is crystal or glass?

Get a glass and hold it up to a light source. You can tell that it is crystal if it creates a rainbow prism effect. If it doesn't, then you are holding just a plain glass. If you tap the glass and you hear a musical ring with a little bit of echo, then it is crystal.