How to Identify Bohemian Crystal?

Origin of Bohemian Crystal

Glass and Bohemian crystal have been a tradition for over 800 years. It has been, and still is, 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 their green colour and the predominance of woodlands in the area. Bohemian glass is regarded by some as 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 any collection of antique cut glass. Today's Bohemian manufacturers still use the same designs that have been in production for hundreds of years, and there are no identifying marks to determine a piece's age, making it somewhat challenging to spot a genuine antique. Bohemian crystal is most commonly used for crystal glasses, goblets, pendants, earrings, chandeliers, or necklaces.

Identifying Bohemian Crystal

Bohemian crystal can be used to create stunning objects such as vases, candle holders, bottles, or to adorn jewellery. To identify if you own Bohemian crystal, follow these tips:

• Check for purity. Tap a piece of glass with your fingernail. The richer the tone, the higher the lead content. Bohemian lead crystal has a high lead content of around 24%. In addition to tone, a high lead content results in a greater refraction of light once the glass is cut, creating more sparkle.
• Check the colour. Since the 1850s, Bohemian glass has been available in transparent pink, red, cobalt and light blue, amber, and green, but the earliest Bohemian glass was forest green, often adorned with a gold band 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 detail, but cuts should not be completely uniform as they were made by hand.
• Look for signs of wear. Wear should occur in random places, not uniformly. Check areas where your fingers naturally grip the glass or where two sections meet. Use a magnifying glass to spot scratches. Uniformly wide scratches or those all running in the same direction are likely artificially added to new glass to mimic signs of wear.

Difference Between Glass and Crystal

The meaning of crystal varies from country to country. In the Western world, however, crystal is most often referred to as glass with lead content. If you come across the term lead-free crystal, it is simply not crystal. What we are referring to when we say Bohemian crystals is glass produced in the traditional Bohemian region with a lead content of at least 24%.

How to Clean Bohemian Crystal?

Crystal glasses, ornaments, and pieces should not be washed in a dishwasher, as the high heat and harsh detergents can damage them and dull their shine. Here’s how to hand wash them to keep them in perfect condition:

• Line the bottom of a container with one or two dish towels, then fill it with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap (or your favourite gentle detergent). Clean 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 return it to its place.

This process ensures a sparkling and spotless result. If the crystal is very dirty, you can gently rub it with a soft cotton cloth or a very soft-bristled toothbrush.