How to Identify Bohemian Crystal?

Origin of Bohemian Crystal

Glass and ancient Bohemian crystal have been a tradition for over 800 years. It has been, and continues to be, produced in what is now the Bohemia region of the Czech Republic. The earliest types of glass were known as "forest glass" due to their green colour and the predominance of woodlands in the area. Many regard Bohemian glass as the finest glass in the world because of 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 collections of antique cut glass. Today's Bohemian manufacturers still use the same patterns that have been in production for hundreds of years, and there are no identification marks to determine the age of a piece, making it somewhat 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 beautifully adorn various objects such as vases, candlesticks, decanters, or to embellish jewellery. To determine if you possess Bohemian crystal, follow the guidelines below:

• Check the purity. Tap a piece of glass with your nail. The richer the tone, the higher the lead content. Bohemian lead crystal contains a high lead content of 24%. In addition to its tone, a high lead content results in a greater refraction of light once the glass is cut, creating more sparkle.
• Verify the colour. Since the 1850s, Bohemian glass has been available in clear pink, red, cobalt blue, light blue, amber, and green; however, the earliest Bohemian glass was forest green, often adorned with a band of gold or an enamel border.
• Examine the cuts in the glass using a magnifying glass. Fine Bohemian glass resembles lace. The high lead content allows for exceptional cutting execution, but cuts should not be completely uniform, as they were handcrafted.
• Look for signs of wear. Any wear should be random rather than uniform. Check for wear in places where your fingers naturally grip the glass or where two sections meet. Use a magnifying glass to observe scratches. Uniform scratches or those all extending in the same direction were likely added to new glass to simulate signs of wear.

Difference Between Glass and Crystal

The meaning 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 encounter the term lead-free crystal, it is simply not crystal. What we are referring to when we say Bohemian Crystals is glass made in the traditional Bohemia 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 be damaged by high heat and aggressive detergents, losing their brilliance. Here’s how to hand wash them to maintain their pristine condition:

• Line the bottom of a basin with one or two dish towels, then fill it with lukewarm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Wash one crystal piece at a time.
• Rinse with a solution of 3 parts lukewarm water to 1 part white vinegar.
• Dry with a soft cotton cloth and return it to its place.

Following this method will achieve a sparkling and streak-free result. If the crystal is very dirty, you may gently rub it with a soft cotton cloth or a very soft-bristled toothbrush.