Glass or crystal: which to choose?

The choice of dishes for the home is always accompanied by a number of questions. One of them is what material to give preference to when buying, if there is a desire to buy transparent dishes. There are two options - crystal or glass. Both materials have advantages and disadvantages.

Are there any differences?

Glass is the oldest material for making transparent dishes. There is evidence that even five thousand years ago such items were used in Ancient Egypt. For a long time, the main method of making glassware was the blowing method. Everything has changed over time. Today, manufacturers use the pressing method (the product is formed in a special shape), articulations (for the production of items with a leg). Along with modern methods, blowing also remains in demand.

There is a huge range of glassware on the market. It has a different shape, original appearance, color. With all this, such products are much cheaper than crystal ones and do not require special care. In most cases, tempered glass is used, so the durability of the products is another positive characteristic.

The advantages of glassware have led to a high demand for such products. Consumers are not only households, but also catering organizations - cafes, canteens and even elite restaurants.

Nevertheless, the difference between glass and crystal is obvious. It's hard not to notice her. Glassware will last much longer, several generations can use such a set without any problems. In addition, crystal glassware is more transparent and has a beautiful melodic ringing.

The features of crystal are associated with the raw materials of manufacture. It contains lead, the higher its proportion, the better the product. Elite crystal contains at least 30% of this mineral. Due to this composition, the products can withstand high loads. That is why bizarre patterns can be seen on ancient crystal objects. No glass can withstand such an impact.

Of course, from an economic point of view, crystal has a disadvantage - high cost. But correlating the quality and beauty of the product, the high price tag will become clear. Plus, the crystal will require special care. Otherwise, the dishes will lose their characteristic shine and become cloudy. It is not necessary to use expensive means for these purposes. It is enough to rinse the product once every six months in water acidified with vinegar or lemon juice, and wipe it dry with a soft cloth.

Main varieties

Glass cutlery has a wider assortment than crystal options. Depending on the use, glassware is used for cooking, storing food, setting the table, etc.

Pots, braziers, frying pans, baking dishes are made of heat-resistant glass. They are not afraid of high fever. Regular glass is used for serving items - plates, glasses, wine glasses, etc. Bottles, jars, jugs, ashtrays are objects made most often of glass.

Crystal products cannot boast of such a variety. They are represented by vases, saucers, sugar bowls, spice sets and other serving items. The widest assortment among crystal is drinkware. It is these glasses, glasses, glasses and wine glasses that are used to serve drinks in expensive restaurants.

Secrets of choice

Glassware is selected based on customer preferences. When buying, you should pay attention to some points:

• Transparency and color. If a colorless product is purchased, then there should be no color blotches. The presence of bubbles inside the glass also indicates defects.

• The surface must be smooth. There should be no chipping, stakes, cracks.

• The edges of quality dishes are smooth and rounded.

• Inspect the product from all sides. Uneven wall thickness is the reason for refusal to purchase.

• All additional elements (legs, handles, etc.) must be checked for secure attachment.

Crystal is much easier to choose in bohemian glass shop . After all, it has no grade, is made only by hand and contains lead. Check all these characteristics by asking the seller for a quality certificate for the product and decide on the purchase.