Lead crystalware

About lead crystalware

Lead crystalware is a type of glassware made by combining molten quartz with lead compounds. Lead crystalware includes tableware such as:

Lead crystalware may be:

It may not be easy to tell whether an item is lead crystalware, lead-free crystalware or regular glassware.

Lead crystalware is often crafted into delicate and decorative pieces. It can appear thinner and brighter, and feel heavier than regular glassware.

Traditionally, lead crystalware is more expensive than regular glassware.

Some lead may be transferred into food or drinks when they are put into lead crystalware. How much lead is transferred depends on:

Type of food or drink

More lead may be transferred from lead crystalware to highly acidic foods or drinks such as pickles, fruit juices, soft drinks or wine.
Less lead is likely to be transferred from lead crystalware to less acidic foods and drinks such as cheese, nuts or milk.

Length of time in contact

The risk of lead transfer from lead crystalware to food or drinks is lower if the lead crystalware is only used for a short time, such as over the course of a meal.
The risk of lead transfer increases when food or drinks are stored in lead crystalware for longer periods, like fruit juice stored overnight or port wine stored for weeks.

Exposure to lead is associated with harmful effects on the:

Because of their developing brains, infants and children are most sensitive to the harmful effects of lead, even at low exposure levels.

During pregnancy or breastfeeding, lead can be transferred to the developing baby or nursing infant.

Lead poisoning isn't always easy to recognize. You may have symptoms that include:

You can reduce your exposure to lead from lead crystalware by:

If you use lead crystalware:

limit its use to serving food or drinks, never storing
only use it from time to time, such as on special occasions
soak new lead crystalware in vinegar for 24 hours and rinse it thoroughly before use
wash it by hand in warm water, using a mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge, to reduce surface damage that could cause more lead to be transferred the next time it's used
avoid using it for oral care in the bathroom

for example, don't store mouthwash in a lead crystalware decanter or use lead crystalware tumblers as cups

follow instructions for safe use or contact the manufacturer for more information

If you are concerned about your exposure to lead, talk to your doctor.