Crystal and glass present two of the most brilliantly dazzling options for serving your mouth-watering beverages. It’s no fluke that they’re commonly associated with fine dining, high society, and special occasions; no matter what you present on glass or crystal, these regal materials will still scream opulence and refinement.
But what is the difference between these two divine drinkware choices? And in the food fight of crystal vs glass, is there a clear winner? If you’re learning how to set a table, knowing the similarities and differences between the two is essential.
This article will clarify how to differentiate between the two materials and highlight why either is an excellent choice for your next dinner or drinkware set.
Crystal and Glass: See Through What Separates Them
When comparing crystal and ordinary glass, it’s somewhat erroneous to categorize them as completely distinct. That’s because crystal is itself an enhanced form of regular glass. That’s somewhat unsurprising, as crystal and glass can have near-identical appearances and textures.
Despite their similarities, their unique qualities become clear when we look at the two closely.
How They’re Made: Multiplicities of Molecules
While, on the surface, it can be hard to differentiate between the two, the distinct differences between glass and crystal are evident when we view things on a molecular level:
- Glass – Glass is a type of ceramic defined by its unique atomic structure. Unlike genuine crystals and other materials with more orderly ionic bonds, glass atoms form oddly shaped, asymmetrical connections. Regular glass is glass because it retains this amorphous molecular makeup once the material hardens.
- Crystal – Though the term is fairly common, calling glasses crystal is technically a misnomer on multiple levels. For one, this type of “crystal glass “ isn’t the same as the crystals we associate with jewelry. Secondly, crystal glassware doese not exhibit the same clean, crystalline molecular structure that gives those prized jewels their name. Instead, crystal is a kind of enhanced glass that has been fortified with metal alloys to increase its shine. Originally, lead was the go-to additive for crystal. Once society wised up to lead crystal’s hazardous health effects, however, manufacturers stopped using lead in crystal and began using barium and zinc instead.
How Long They Last: Different Durabilities
Whether it’s normal silicate glass or crystal glassware bolstered by metal alloys, both materials require careful handling to enjoy a long lifespan. Glassware and lead glass is a material we inherently treat with care, however—so this isn’t as difficult as it might sound.
That said, under everyday conditions, there is a notable