Look alike, are they?

We are talking about glass and crystal. These words are often used as synonyms because they are similar materials but with different qualities. In a previous article on our blog, we explained that the big difference is in the elements that go into the composition of each. Glass is silica sand mixed with soda and lime, melted at high temperatures (about 1500º C or 2732º F). In “man-made” glass, lead oxide is added to the silica in about 10 to 32% percentage, which varies according to the legal regulations of each country.

And we say manufactured because specialists explain that the genuine crystal is only the one produced by nature: quartz, rock crystal, ice crystal, stalactites and stalagmites, and precious stones, such as rubies and diamonds, among others.

People call crystal what is used to close a window or what we use in glasses and bottles and other objects of daily use, but experts say that we should call it glass.

There are several ways to differentiate them. Both are flexible when worked, which allows them to be shaped into different forms. Crystal is thinner than glass, and thanks to the lead it contains, it shines much brighter against the light and usually produces an iridescent effect. It is also much more transparent. Finally, there is its melodic and elongated sonority when tapped gently, a characteristic that glass does not have. Glass, on the other hand, is one hundred percent recyclable and is fully recovered in quality and quantity at the end of the process. At the same time, its “distinguished relative” is not recycled because it requires a high melting temperature, and the same furnaces cannot be used. Also, glass is more resistant and more useful for everyday use. In short: the word glass is used to designate products of inferior quality and everyday use, and crystal for those of high quality and higher price.

Chance played an essential role in the discovery of glass. The 17th century was a critical historical moment for shipping in England due to the boom in trade and increased maritime wars. The use of wood as fuel was then banned to ensure the manufacture of masts for their ships. The master glassmakers, whose production was increasing and competing with other countries, ran out of firewood. They had to find other sources of energy and turned to the use of coal, which had recently been discovered. The glazed paste produced by this method had an earthy coloration that was unattractive. Around 1675 George Ravenscroft introduced lead oxide into the mixture, resulting in a product of unparalleled brilliance and sonority. Thus appeared the crystal which gives a touch of refinement to our toasts and our tables.