Crystal Glassware - Definition and Dangers
If you like glassware you will know how crystal glassware can be so much more sparkly than plain glass.
Crystal glass, in Europe, means that the glass has a higher content of lead. The European Union has defined crystal glass as that containing at least 4% lead. Anything less than this is considered as glass, not crystal.
It is an interesting fact that there is not an internationally agreed standard for crystal glass. In the U.S.A. glass is defined as ‘crystal’ if it contains only 1% lead. In Eastern Europe the term ‘crystal’ can be used to refer to any piece of high quality glassware, regardless of the lead content. So beware if you are buying ‘crystal’ from these sources.
Adding lead, in the form of lead oxide, to the glass changes its refractive index. The lead makes the glass softer and easier to cut, engrave and noticeably heavier. It’s the change in refractive index that makes crystal glass appear to be so much more sparkly than plain glass.
If you are worried that the lead in lead crystal can leach out into stored beverages you are right to be concerned. Storing wines, vinegar or other acidic beverages in lead crystal decanters is not a good idea as lead will migrate into the stored liquid. Regular use of lead crystal is not recommended for these reasons, particularly for children or pregnant women.
May 8th, 2009 at 11:13 pm
This is reasonable advice, I advise my customers not to store drinks in lead crystal for more than a few days for these reasons.
That said, the decanting process is necessary to remove sediment for aged drinks, vintage port, red wine and the like. And adds greatly to the presentation and enjoyment of drinking a quality wine, whisky or port.
There are alternatives to lead crystal such as porcelain or normal glass.