Picture of a French Lead Crystal Candy Dish
 
Glass and Crystal after stamps and coins, are the third most collected items in the world. There has been a fascination with glass and crystal for as long as man has understood the magic that can transform common elements of sand, lead and Iron into the almost limitless manifestations seen in crystal and glass creations throughout history.
 
Crystal came into being when cut glass manufacturers found that by adding lead oxide as an ingredient it increased their ability to cut the molten glass without fracturing and allowed them better control to obtain the desired shape. Full lead crystal contains a minimum of 24 % lead monoxide. Crystal is noted for its optical clarity and purity. From the ancient Phoenicians to the current art glass movements, people are consistently enthralled by the manifold designs and shapes achievable in this medium. From the simplicity of a timeless vase, to complex forms, crystal has mirrored our imagination and creative Spirit. 
 
The easiest method to differentiate between glass and lead crystal is the "ping" test. Simply "flick!' the edge of a glass. If you hear “clonk” it is glass. If you hear a bell-like "ping" it is crystal.