How to Identify Bohemian Crystal?

Origin of Bohemian Crystal

The glass and Bohemian crystal have been a tradition for over 800 years. It has been, and continues to be, produced in what is now the Bohemian region of the Czech Republic. The earliest versions of the glass were referred to as "forest glass" due to its green colour and the prevalence of woods in the area. Bohemian glass is considered by some to be the best glass in the world thanks to its beautiful jewel tones and brilliant cuts. The combination of a high lead content and the raw materials used to create the glass - potash and quartz sand - make Bohemian glass a highly sought-after addition to cut glass collections. Today’s Bohemian manufacturers still use the same designs that have been in production for hundreds of years, and there are no markings to identify the age of a piece, making it a bit challenging to spot a genuine antique. Bohemian crystal is most commonly used for crystal glasses, stemware, pendants, earrings, chandeliers, or necklaces.

Identifying Bohemian Crystal

Bohemian crystal can be used to create stunning items such as vases, candlesticks, bottles, or to adorn jewellery. To determine if you own a piece of Bohemian crystal, follow the guidelines below:

• Check the purity. Tap a piece of glass with your fingernail. The richer the sound, the higher the lead content. Bohemian lead crystal typically has a lead content of 24%. In addition to the tone, a high lead content results in a greater light refraction once the glass is cut, creating more sparkle.
• Inspect the colour. Since the 1850s, Bohemian glass has been available in clear pink, red, cobalt blue, light blue, amber, and green, though the earliest Bohemian glass was forest green, often adorned with a gold band or enamel decoration.
• Examine the cuts made into the glass with a magnifying glass. Fine Bohemian glass resembles lace. The high lead content allows for exceptional cutting, but the cuts should not be completely uniform since they are made by hand.
• Look for signs of wear. Wear should be random, not uniform. Check for wear in areas where your fingers naturally grip the glass or where two sections meet. Use a magnifying glass to look for scratches. Uniform scratches or those all going in the same direction have likely been added to new glass to imitate signs of wear.

Difference Between Glass and Crystal

The definition of crystal varies from country to country. However, in the Western world, crystal is most often referred to as glass with lead content. If you come across the term lead-free crystal, it simply isn't crystal. When we refer to Bohemian Crystals, we mean glass made in the traditional Bohemian region with a lead content of at least 24%.

How to Clean Bohemian Crystal?

Glasses, ornaments, and crystal pieces should not be washed in a dishwasher, as they can get damaged by high heat and harsh detergents, losing their sparkle. Here’s how to wash them by hand to keep them in perfect condition:

• Completely line the bottom of a container with one or two dishcloths, then fill it with warm water and a mild dish soap (or your favourite gentle detergent). Wash one crystal piece at a time.
• Rinse with a solution of 3 parts warm water to 1 part white vinegar.
• Dry with a soft cotton cloth and put it back in its place.

This method will ensure a sparkling and streak-free result. If the crystal is very dirty, you can gently wipe it with a soft cotton cloth or a very soft-bristled toothbrush.