Bohemian glass
The first mentions of Bohemian glass were found in the annals of 1162. At that time, the first workshops for the production of blown glass appeared in the regions of the Giant Mountains (Šumava, Špindlerv Mlyn, Harrachov).
Bohemian glass is famous for its quality. It was sold in Saxony, France, Flanders. In terms of technology, only the equally well-known Venetian glass could compete with it, but Czech masters were still able to outstrip their Italian competitor.
The first Czech crystal piece was made in the 17th century. For the manufacture of Bohemian crystal, lead oxide and quartz sand are used. The process takes place at temperatures up to 1500 ° C. Some believe that the Czechs did not come up with anything special: just think, they included some additives in the composition. But it is thanks to lead oxide that the glass turns into a sonorous, transparent and sufficiently strong crystal. And quartz sand contributes to resistance to chemicals.
The bohemia crystal https://aleks-crystal.com is presented not only by tableware. This material is successfully used for the manufacture of chandeliers. Thanks to professional processing, the lighting emanating from such chandeliers is quite multifaceted, it shimmers and scatters rainbow rays. Also, decorations, stained glass windows and decorative elements are made from this material.
Varieties of Czech crystal
Sanded. Various variations of polished patterns make each piece of a set or service unique. It should be noted that Czech crystal is cut by hand.
Smooth cast. For products from cast smooth crystal, a special technology is used, without subsequent grinding.
Color. First, a transparent layer is applied, then a colored layer, then a transparent layer again. It is simply impossible to create this on a conveyor belt. Crafting is considered a real skill. Behind each colored product lies the meticulous handicraft of a professional.
With molding and gilding. At the end of the manufacturing process, the product is decorated with stucco, gold, painting and engraving.
How to distinguish crystal from fake?
Lead content. According to the standards of the European Union, real crystal contains more than 10% lead. Crystal with more than 30% of this element is considered to be of high quality. If the product contains less than 4% lead, then it is just glass. Although in the Czech Republic itself the bar is slightly lowered. Here, products with 24% lead are considered top-quality crystal. For comparison, in the United States, all glass products that contain more than 1% of this element are called crystal.
According to the coefficient of light refraction. Real crystal is characterized by iridescent tints and sparkle, which is absent in ordinary glass.
By weight. The products are not characterized by lightness, they have a noticeable weight, since lead oxide is used.
Along the edge of the product. If you gently run your finger along the edge, real crystal will not hurt, but will make it possible to clearly feel the sharpness of the edge of the product.
For crystal purity. The crystal must be crystal clear and clean. It contains no air inclusions, small particles, turbidity and bubbles.
On the call. If you lightly tap the handle on the side of the glass, you can hear a characteristic ringing. Real crystal will ring for at least 4 seconds.
Vases, dishes, slides, candy bowls, lemongrass, ashtrays, trays, wine glasses, napkin holders, coffee and tea sets, plates, bread bins - this is still an incomplete list of Czech tableware items produced by Czech craftsmen.
Which brand should you choose?
Caezar Crystal Bohemia. This production has been successfully operating since 1861. Here each piece is sanded by hand. And all products contain the prescribed 24% lead.
Gold Crystal. The company has been on the market for over 14 years. It has two factories: in Česká Lipa and in Jihlava. Gold Crystal is renowned for its decorative handcrafted finishing of a diverse range of Bohemian crystal and glass products. These products are intended for interior decoration and everyday use.
Jihlava. Jihlava offers customers a wide range of products, the quality of which is confirmed by many years of experience. Glasses, vases, decanters, candlesticks and much more are made here.
RONA. Recently, the company has taken a leading position in the manufacture of crystal products. The products stand out for their sophisticated design and impeccable finish.
Riva Glass. The production is famous for its high-quality and unique vases, sets of glasses, glasses, wine glasses and other exclusive products.
Product care
Crystal does not like dishwashers and hot water. Hot water will quickly tarnish the dishes.
Crystal should not be used for hot meals and drinks. At elevated temperatures, there is a risk of lead from dishes entering the food, which will lead to tarnishing of the glass and possible intoxication of the body.
It is advisable not to leave alcoholic beverages in glasses for a long time, since the crystal can become irreversibly tarnished.