Lead crystal is made from glass that has been treated with lead oxide and hand or machine cut to make facets. This gives the glass a higher index of refraction and creates an attractive sparkling effect that is prized throughout the world.

Englishman George Ravenscroft is credited with discovering lead crystal in 1676. Today, popular manufacturers of lead crystal include Waterford Crystal, Swarovski, Steuban Glass, Royal Leerdam, Mikasa, and Baccarat. These companies make lead crystal drinking glasses and serving dishes, as well as sculptures, miniatures, jewelry, chandeliers, candleholders, Christmas ornaments, and home décor items.

Lead crystal can be purchased from jewelry stores, fine department stores, and online specialty shops. Prices will vary according to the type of item, manufacturer, and quality of the crystal. Lead crystal is a popular gift for weddings, anniversaries, graduations, and baby showers. In fact, lead crystal keepsakes are passed from generation to generation in many families.

While lead crystal is undoubtedly beautiful, it is notoriously fragile. Since even dust can act as a damaging abrasive agent, great care must be taken to clean and store items made from lead crystal. Experts recommend that you use a blow dryer on the cool air setting to remove dry dust particles from your lead crystal. You should avoid using harsh commercial cleaners, but it is safe to polish your crystal gently with a soft, lint-free cloth. To avoid leaving unsightly fingerprints, always wear gloves when cleaning your lead crystal. If possible, store your crystal in a locked glass display cabinet.

Some types of lead crystal can contain up to 33% lead, so you will want to use caution when drinking or eating from your crystal. Acidic food and beverages, such as pickles, fruit juices, wine, or soft drinks, can leach significant amounts of lead from the containers they are stored in. Research has proven that lead exposure can cause forgetfulness, memory loss, nausea, depression, fatigue, joint pain, vomiting, and abdominal cramping. High levels of lead exposure can even lead to sterility or brain damage.

To reduce the risks associated with eating and drinking from lead crystal, always store your food and beverages in lead-free containers and transfer them to your crystal immediately before serving. Soak new crystal in vinegar for 24 hours before use, wash by hand with a mild detergent, and rinse each piece thoroughly with lukewarm water. Since the dangers of lead exposure are even more prominent for children and pregnant women, however, it’s best to avoid using lead crystal entirely for these groups.