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The difference between crystal and glass is not exact, with varying standards around the world. Lead content is a determining factor, with higher percentages earning crystal or lead crystal status. Both can be used to create delicate decorative pieces, with crystal being especially desirable for tableware and vases.
Defining the difference between crystal and glass is not an exact process. If it is true that all crystal is also glass, only a few types can be correctly identified with this term. Outside of this rather broad statement, however, there are no hard and fast rules that are universally invoked as part of the definition process. Throughout the world, there are different standards that are employed in various countries around the world that determine whether the quality and lead content of a particular substance can properly be classified as crystal or not. Even within some countries, the qualities that must be present for glass to earn its other name can vary.
The lead content of glass is usually a determining factor in the classification of finished products. In the European community, items containing more than 4% but less than 10% lead monoxide usually earn the glass designation. While this is not always the case, items found to have 8 to 10% lead content are granted lead glass status. Goods with a lead monoxide content of between 10% and 30% earn the crystal designation. Where the lead monoxide content exceeds 30%, the item is often identified as lead crystal.
In the United States, a lead monoxide content of 1% is sufficient to classify an item as crystal. In other countries of the world that do not strictly adhere to the standards used by the European community, the range of lead content required before glass can be identified by this term can vary between 3% and 15%. Items with a higher lead monoxide content would be classified as lead crystal.
Both, once fused, can be used to create beautiful and somewhat fragile pieces. Items constructed this way include Christmas ornaments, decorative figurines, delicate picture frames, and other items crafted with a great deal of detail. Crystal in all its forms is considered especially desirable when it comes to tableware and drinking apparel, as well as carefully crafted vases of flowers.
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