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Lead Crystal
Since 1676, the finest crystal has been made with lead. The addition of lead oxide to the mixture of quartz, sand, potash, lime and soda imparts to crystal a greater brilliance, weight and reflective quality. True lead crystal, when struck, gives off a distinctive bell-like tone. The term "Full Lead Crystal" indicates a lead content of 24% or more.
Mouthblown Handcut Crystal
The exceptional talent of artists who  design exclusively in crystal, and the skill of European master glass cutters combine to create the one-of-a-kind mouth blown handcut pieces we proudly present.
The process of creating a mouthblown, handcut crystal piece begins with the "gatherer"" who collects a precise portion of molten glass, or "gather" from the furnace. The "gaffer", or master glassmaker then blows the molten glass into a wooden or metal mould to achieve the intended shape. This intricate process requires much skill and years of training.
After inspection, the piece is placed in a cooling oven, where it stays for up to 48 hours, until it is cool enough to handle. After cooling, the piece moves to the cutting stage. The cutter uses a revolving carborundum  wheel, which is continually dripped with water, keeping the crystal cool in order to avoid cracking. He then begins the painstaking process of cutting the intended design into the piece.
Cased Crystal
Casing is one of the most dramatic methods of adding color to crystal. In this ancient technique, one or more layers of colored glass are fused to a base of clear crystal. An expert glasscutter then cuts through the "casing" so that the underlying colors are revealed and incorporated into the design.
Due to the intricately detailed workmanship in the crafting of each piece of true cased crystal, availability is limited each year. This only serves to further enhance its value.
Crystal Clear presents a special collection of cased crystal from the finest glassworkers in Europe. As exquisite gifts or striking accent  pieces, they are perfection in design and beauty.
Flaw
As with any handmade product, mouthblown crystal is subject to imperfections — often in the form of "blisters" or "seeds." These tiny bubbles are inherent in handmade crystal, and in no way compromise the strength or durability of the piece. In fact, they may be considered an identifying mark of a totally unique handmade product.
Caring For Lead Crystal
The beauty of lead crystal is to be used and enjoyed. With the proper care, a piece of crystal can be used everyday and still last a lifetime.
Care should be taken at all times when washing and handling crystal. To avoid scratches remove all rings before washing crystal. Wash one piece at a time and use only warm water and a mild soap solution. A soft cloth can be used to remove dirt and dust. A rubber mat and rubber faucet ring are recommended to prevent accidental chips.
To clean closed vessels (such as perfume bottle or decanters), simply fill the crystal with a solution of 50% water and 50% vinegar; add uncooked rice and shake gently to clean the inside of the piece. Empty and rinse with warm water.
Dry crystal pieces using a soft, lint-free cloth. Immediate drying will eliminate "water spots". Should any remain, they can be removed with a soft cloth dipped lightly into vinegar.
Store crystal in an upright position at room temperature. Never stack bowls, glasses, etc., as they may stick or scratch. Avoid extreme hot or cold, as rapid changes in temperature can cause crystal to fracture or shatter.
Following these simple steps will preserve the beauty of your crystal for years to come.
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