Crystsal stemware includes wine and champagne glasses.
Crystal stemware describes any crystal drinking glass mounted on a stem and sitting on a broad base. Crystal stemware includes wine glasses, champagne flutes, water goblets, martini glasses and brandy snifters. Many manufacturers produce crystal stemware and it is available in a variety of patterns.
Crystal Defined
Crystal is a high-quality clear glass that contains between 8 percent and 24 percent lead oxide. The lead is added to give the drinkware brilliance, sound and texture. When light hits lead crystal, it sparkles and bounces off the facets. Crystal of the highest craftsmanship is referred to as fine crystal and is produced by companies such as Waterford in Ireland and Baccarat in France.
Stemware Defined
Stemware, or drinkware mounted on a stem, comes in various shapes to enhance the beverage it is designed to hold. White wine glasses, for example, are small with rounded bottoms for keeping the wine cold. Red wine glasses are larger, because red wine is best served at room temperature. Champagne flutes are designed to be long, tall and narrow to enhance the effervescence of the drink.
Care
Because crystal is delicate, it must be properly cared for and maintained. Do not load crystal stemware in the dishwasher, unless the manufacturer specifies that it is dishwasher-safe. Even so, it should be washed on the gentle cycle and loaded so that two pieces of stemware do not touch, which can cause cracks and chips. All other crystal stemware should be washed by hand, especially fine crystal.
Storage
''Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook'' recommends storing all crystal stemware upright because the rim is the most delicate part and is susceptible to chipping. Avoid nesting crystal beverage holders because it might cause scratching. And to further protect crystal stemware, line the shelves with a shock-absorbing material, such as cork or plastic.
Safety
Though lead can be toxic to humans, drinking from lead crystal stemware is safe for healthy adults, according to ''Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook.'' Children, pregnant women and adults in poor health should avoid drinking from it. Also, liquids should not be stored in lead crystal for extended periods because lead might leach into the beverage, unless the decanter is lined with a protective coating.
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