How do I match a replacement stopper?

Examine the ground portion of the stopper stem and compare its diameter and taper to the inside of the decanter neck. Variations in hand-ground glass mean stoppers are rarely interchangeable without checking measurements. Look at the period style and glass weight of your decanter to find a contemporaneous match in cut crystal or plain glass.

What is the difference between crystal and glass?

Crystal contains a proportion of lead oxide, which adds weight, refractive clarity, and a resonant ring when struck. Standard glass lacks this lead content and feels lighter. Victorian and Edwardian makers utilised both materials extensively for decanters, ewers, and perfume bottles.

How should I clean antique glass decanters?

Wash glass gently in warm water using mild soap, avoiding sudden temperature changes that can crack nineteenth-century material. Use a soft bottle brush to reach interior residue without scratching. Dry the vessel thoroughly and store the stopper separately to prevent sticking over time.

How do I date an antique decanter?

Inspect the base for a polished pontil mark, which indicates hand-blown manufacturing techniques typical of the nineteenth century. Hallmarks on silver collars provide exact assay office years for Edwardian and Victorian pieces. Stylistic cues such as heavy wheel-cutting point to the Victorian era, while geometric motifs suggest Art Deco design.