The Difference Between Crystal and Glass Stemware Crystal is glass with lead monoxide in it and, depending on what country you live in, can vary from 1% (in the US) to 30% (in Europe). Many glassware manufacturers also make leadfree crystal glassware with zinc and magnesium oxide which also refracts light. Using lead or lead-free crystal for wine glasses is popular for two reasons. For one, the minerals causes the glass to have light refraction which gives stemware a sparkle. Secondly, the inclusion of minerals in glass makes it sturdy enough to be spun very thin. Regular glass doesn’t shine the same way as crystal but it is more affordable and also tends to be more durable.
You Only Need Two Types Starting a wine glass collection? Go super basic and get a set of 6 red wine glasses and a set of 4-6 Champagne flutes. Take my word for it; that’s all you really need.
98 fabric vine 2014