Cheap Glassware Can Be Alluring and Functional
Even Cheap Glassware Can be Beautiful as well as Useful
Glittering glassware is an integral part of the dinner table and the sparkle of glasses waiting for water or wine is magical in sunshine or candlelight.
Glassware falls into 2 definite categories - it is either lead crystal or everyday glassware. Lead crystal must consist of at least 30% lead, it refracts the light due to the way that the glass is cut and due to the lead material, and it is chunky and heavier to handle.
Lead crystal is highly valued. It is cut in traditional "cut glass" patterns and more contemporary styles.
Everyday glass looks more modern and can be bought cheaply at supermarkets and stores everywhere. Many people prefer everyday glass because it can be used without fear of breakage, and it still offers many of the great features of lead crystal.
Most glassware can be cleaned in the dishwasher, but may need a better clean and polish by hand from time to time, with a cotton cloth.
When stacking glasses in the dishwasher, leave enough space between glasses so that they don't bang against one another during the wash.
Lead crystal should be hand cleaned and carefully polished before storing in a safe place until next used.
A Handy Tip
If you want to see your glassware really sparkling brightly, place the glass inverted over a head of steam from a freshly boiled kettle for a couple of seconds and then polish with a clean cloth.
Decanters with bottlenecks can be cleaned professionally. These specialists can also gring down any small chips if you happen to chip the cut-glass.
Many people are frightened of using their cut-glassware, and keep it locked securely in a cupboard somewhere in the house. Why not use it even though it is valuable? Craftsmen meant their ware to be seen regularly and enjoyed! Go on...just use it and enjoy it! Everyone else will too.
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