Famous Chandeliers
Prestigious Waterford® crystals often grace the expensive chandeliers and lamps manufactured by the famous company. Waterford® is famous for its cut glass work and for making the most exquisite crystal stem ware that you can purchase.
The lead crystals made by the company are exquisitely cut and shine with a brilliance that is unequaled by other companies.
Bohemia® crystal is the oldest European manufacturer of lead crystals. Their crystals are superior in sparkle and brilliance. Their transparency is well known. European royalty is well known for its use of crystals in decorating.
The word crystal is taken from the Greek 'Krystallos' and describes a clear rock. For many years rock crystals were used to make the best items of luxury for the upper classes. The use of crystals dates back over 1000 years. Lead crystal was invented in the 1600’s by an English glassblower who added lead oxide to his glassware as he was making it to increase the brilliance.
Crystals are formed in molds and then cut and polished into a shape or design. I have read that the highest quality is the Lace Cut. This cut is owned by Bohemia® crystal. This amazing cut is what makes Bohemia® different from other crystal companies. The traditions and the work of the artists have been passed down through the ages from parent to child. The company is well known for its difficulty in design and its rich expression. The beautiful design resembles the exquisite lace handmade by nuns in convents of the past.
How do you tell crystal from glass? Crystal contains lead. Anything that has less than 4% lead is considered glass. If an item has more than 30% lead it is the best; highly leaded crystal. But these are European standards. Here in the US glass can be considered crystal when it only has 1% lead. This does not seem to be the best standard when buying crystal.
Chandeliers that are made of lead crystal are exquisite and among the most beautiful in the world. If you happen to own an antique chandelier made of Czech crystal, you have a piece of art as well as a workable lighting fixture.
You should never us detergents or put your crystal in a dishwasher. The quick changes from hot to cold can cause your crystal to crack or cloud. When you are cleaning a crystal chandelier, each piece should be hand washed in the mildest of soaps and then dried with a soft cloth.
Remember when purchasing your lead crystal chandelier that there are many famous brands that you have to consider. The most well known name is Swarovski. This company is famous for its lead crystal beads which are sold one at a time in craft and jewelry making stores. You should remember that your lead crystal chandelier is also extremely fragile. If it needs to be cleaned it is possible to do it yourself piece by piece but it is probably better if you hire a professional to remove and clean it and then put it back up.
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