Quck answer
Glass and crystal chandeliers may look similar, but there are some key differences to help you tell them apart.
1. Material: Glass chandeliers are made of regular glass, while crystal chandeliers are made of high-quality lead crystal.
2. Clarity: Crystal chandeliers have a higher clarity and sparkle due to the lead content, while glass chandeliers may have a more muted shine.
3. Weight: Crystal chandeliers are heavier than glass chandeliers due to the density of the crystal material.
4. Sound: When tapped gently, crystal chandeliers produce a clear, ringing sound, while glass chandeliers produce a duller thud.
5. Price: Crystal chandeliers are generally more expensive than glass chandeliers due to the higher quality and craftsmanship.
By considering these factors, you can easily distinguish between glass and crystal chandeliers.
When searching for the perfect chandelier, it is helpful to determine whether it is made of glass or crystal in order to match the room’s decor. In general, crystal chandeliers emit more color, but the main distinction between glass and crystal is the amount of lead they contain. In the United States, glass is considered crystal if it contains 1 percent or more lead, while in Europe, glass is classified as crystal only if it contains over 10 percent lead.
Step 1
Take each piece in your hand and assess its weight. The lead content in crystal can range from 1 percent to 40 percent. Regardless, lead is dense and will add more weight to the glass. Therefore, the crystal piece will feel heavier.
Step 2
Examine each piece closely. The clearer piece will be the crystal piece due to the presence of lead. An increase in lead content results in greater clarity in the crystal.
Step 3
Hold each piece up to the light. Plain glass allows white light to pass through, while lead in crystal enables more light transmission and enhances diffraction, creating a stunning spectrum of light that is easily recognizable.
Step 4
Take note of the chandelier’s body from which the pieces were detached. If the frame is made of brass, copper, bronze, or iron, it is more likely that the chandelier is crystal, as its weight necessitates a sturdy body.
