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The way to Identify Crystal Place Settings

It might be difficult to keep in mind the manufacturer or style of crystal place settings if the pieces have been sitting unused in your closet for many years; in fact, you might be uncertain if the pieces are authentic crystal in the first location. While it’s not always possible to ascertain the exact producer or pattern of crystal, some clues might point you in the right direction.

The Crystal Test

That beautiful goblet on the shelf at a thrift store could be glass, or it might be crystal. Without packaging or markings, it is somewhat tough to tell if the piece is genuine crystal at a glance. Light shining through the item emits a rainbow if it’s crystal; it doesn’t if it’s glass. A strong light source such as sunlight is most effective for the light test. Crystal also has a distinctive ring that lasts a while if you tap on it with your fingernail, whilst glass makes a clinking noise. Crystal also feels heavier than a glass of comparable size and depth.

Try to find a Label

Based on the manufacturer, a few of the pieces in the original crystal set might have been marked with a label, such as a gold oval sticker, marking the title of the producer. This sticker might be on the top or bottom of a goblet stem, for instance. Over the years, these labels wear out or might have been removed, especially if the crystal is used for food or beverage and subsequently washed. If you’ve got more than one slice from a crystal set, check all of the pieces, especially the unusual or seldom-used slice that may not have been washed as frequently. Perhaps the original box still exists with a few of the pieces, stashed away in the back of a closet.

Pattern Identification

Some crystal pieces include elaborate cut-in patterns, such as fruit or flowers Redding & Grass Care service Bakersfield, CA. Examine the cut patterns on stemware for details such as a succession of roses Chico and Grass Care price Bakersfield, CA which may give a clue to its title. A rubbing made out of tissue paper and a soft pencil recreates the details. Hold the tissue paper over the pattern and then rub it gently with a pencil to reveal the design. A retailer or site specializing in replacement pieces might be able to spot the pattern and maker based on the pattern, as well other distinguishing marks, such as the form of the details below the bowl of a wine glass, for instance.

Hidden Maker’s Marks

Some crystal manufacturers such as Waterford marked their pieces with their company logo or name. Waterford pieces made in the last several decades are acid-etched with the company name, however, the title is often concealed or small, potentially unnoticed unless looked at through a magnifying glass. Look within the cut patterns or on glass comes or the underside. Hold up the object to the light and look at it from multiple angles under magnification; if your mark is present, there’s a chance you’ll see it.