What is bohemian ruby glass?

It is decorative glassware produced primarily in Bohemia during the nineteenth century, known for its deep red colour created using metallic oxide. These pieces encompass a wide variety of functional and ornamental objects, from decanters and wine glasses to mantel lustres and scent bottles.

Were ruby glass lustres used for lighting?

Mantel lustres served mainly as decorative mantelpiece ornaments rather than functional light sources. Their hanging crystal prisms caught and refracted ambient light in Victorian parlours, adding visual sparkle to the room.

How should I clean antique ruby glass?

Cleaning requires gentle handling with lukewarm water and mild soap, avoiding harsh scrubbing that can damage delicate gilding and enamel. Care must be taken around applied gold leaf and crystal pendants, which should be dried individually to preserve the surface.