Glass vs Lead Crystal

[Jeffery]

Does any one know of a dependable way to identify if a piece is plain glass or lead crystal?

[Michelle Staley]

My method of telling the difference is

1) weight - crystal items are heavier than a glass object of the same size. So if the item feels heavier than you think it should move on to step two.
2) hold it up to the light- crystal is very clear and will refract light (make rainbows or colors) whereas glass will have a color cast to it whether it is yellow, gray or green.
3) then the ping test - this can also shatter a piece if there is a flaw in it but thump it lightly and if it rings it is crystal if not it is glass. Flint glass will also ring but not like crystal.
4) thickness - crystal can be blown thinner than glass so look at the rim or base and determine the thickness.

If the piece has a cut decoration on it crystal will have sharper edges and more definition whereas glass will not be quite as defined or sharp. You can also look for mold seams, if crystal has been pressed the seams will be smooth and virtually undetectable whereas on glass you can clearly see the mold marks.

I hope this helps.