How do I clean antique crystal chandeliers?

Dust the prisms regularly with a soft brush and wash individual glass components by hand using warm water and a mild detergent. Dry each piece thoroughly with a lint-free cloth before reattaching it to the metal frame. Avoid spraying cleaning solutions directly onto the fixture to protect any brass, ormolu, or silver mounts from moisture damage.

What is the difference between glass and lead crystal?

Lead crystal contains a percentage of lead oxide, which increases the weight, refractive index, and softness of the material. This softness makes it easier for artisans to cut deep, sharp facets. Standard clear glass lacks this lead content, resulting in a lighter weight and less dispersion of light into spectral colours.

How can I tell an 18th-century wine glass from a later reproduction?

Examine the foot for pontil marks, wear scratches, and slight irregularities in the metal that indicate hand-tooling. Georgian glasses often feature folded feet or baluster stems with air bubbles trapped within the clear material. Weight, bowl proportion, and the method of stem construction also offer strong indicators of period manufacture.

Can I use antique wine glasses for daily dining?

Antique stemware can handle careful use, but hand washing is mandatory to preserve the fragile glass and engraved surfaces. Extreme temperature shifts can crack old metal, so avoid pouring boiling liquids into cold vessels. Store them securely with adequate space between stems to prevent chipping.