Crystal is a glass that has lead oxide in its mixture. The more lead in crystal, the more colors crystal reflected. The mixture of lead in a glass make a more reflective and brilliance look to the crystal.
If you want to differentiate handmade crystal from the others, check for the seed bubbles. The handmade process for crystal make is always adding this small “seed bubbles” in to the crystal body, which can only be seen when holding the crystal against a strong light. The other signs for hand crafted crystal are chill marks and flow line on the crystal surface. These are good signs for hand crafted crystal.
Although the crystal contains lead oxide inside, it is still a soft material. It is very fragile which you need to know how to take a good care of your crystal.
These are general things to concern for your crystal pieces.
1. Store your crystal separately from the other items. Wrap your crystal in soft clothes or soft pouch before place it back into its box or airtight plastic bag.
2. The crystal is a delicate item, so, don’t put it upside down. Make sure that you have put it in the right position, without touching to other items.
3. Carry your crystal pieces with care, one at the time only. Do not carry a bunch of them in one time.
4. By accident if your crystal breaks, you can still save it. A clear-drying epoxy for glass will glue them back together. Read on the instruction when you need to use it for the best effect.
5. Be careful about dusts on your crystal. Dust can scratch the crystal surface. Clean it with mild detergent and use a lint free cloth for drying step.
6. Hand wash only and never go with a dishwasher. You need a very gentle care with mild detergent for the best result of your crystal clean.
7. Use only warm water for cleaning step and rinse with warm water again. If you changewater temperature quickly, your crystal can crack or cloud easily.
8. Every time for the crystal cleaning, always place a rubber matt or towel in the sink bottom. Just in case of crystal drop or your slippery hand, a soft matt can save the crystals for this case.
9. A few drops of vinegar in water can keep water spots away from the crystals.
The above advices are able to use for any kind of crystal made. Be gentle for your best crystal look.
