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crystal glass cutting

A Guide to Chandelier Crystal

To the average viewer, most crystal chandeliers look the same: pretty, old-fashioned, and expensive. But the quality of the crystal involved in a chandelier's construction actually varies depending on where it was made, and each different type of cut crystal glass has a unique feel all it's own. If you're considering installing a chandelier in your house or place of business, choosing the right type of crystal may be the difference between a gaudy, awkward centerpiece and a vision of timeless grace.

Strass Crystal
Produced by the Swarovski crystal company using a generations-old secret production method (how cool is that?), Strass cut chandelier crystal is generally considered the finest in the world. A clear optical coating is applied to protect the brilliance and clarity of the crystal, and each is individually etched with the Swarovski logo as a mark of authenticity.

Gemcut Crystal
This type of chandelier crystal is sometimes known as Egyptian or Moroccan crystal, and is characterized by a particularly brilliant cut and clarity. While not as fine as Swarovski crystal, gemcut cut glass crystals still far exceed industry standards. They can be a gorgeous choice for more modern chandelier lighting, as they are very bright. Gemcut crystal is machine-produced, but is still an elegant lighting solution.

Handcut Heritage Crystal
Also called Turkish crystal, this type of cut crystal chandelier glass is hand-cut using a two-part process with iron and sandstone grinding wheels, and hand-finished using a wooden wheel and marble dust. Sometimes traces of the wood can be found on finished crystals, which is considered proof of authenticity. Anyone with an interest in older crystal production techniques should consider this type of chandelier glass.

Legacy Crystal
For a real old-world chandelier lighting effect, opt for a Venetian legacy crystal chandelier. These pieces are molded and fire-polished rather than cut, resulting in a soft, beautiful luminous effect that simply cannot be matched by other types of chandelier glass. Ballrooms and sophisticated, subtle dining settings will benefit from Venetian crystal chandeliers.

If you've been considering the addition of a chandelier, make sure you take these different types of crystal into account when making your choice. What type of effect do you want to create? A brassy, sassy dance floor will require something totally different from an intimate dining experience – don't make the mistake of thinking that every crystal chandelier is the same! And whatever you do, don't opt for cheap, machine-cut glass that's been mass-produced in factory settings – it may be less expensive, but you'll regret your decision every time you turn on the lights.

About the Author

Ara Hovsepian is a lighting expert with a particular interest in cut crystal, which he has indulged on several occasions by visiting the workplaces of Venetian and Turkish craftsmen. For more advice on crystal chandelier selection, or to read about his travel experiences, visit www.crystalchandelierselection.com.