The term lead crystal is, by technicality, not an accurate term to describe lead glass, as glass, an amorphous and lacks a crystalline structure. The use of the term lead crystal remains popular for historical and commercial reasons. Originally discovered by Englishman George Ravenscroft in 1674, the technique of adding lead oxide (in quantities of between 10 and 30%) improved the appearance of the glass and made it easier to melt using sea-coal as a furnace fuel. Lead crystal glassware was formerly used to store and serve drinks, but due to the potential health risks of lead, this is rare nowadays. Lead-free crystal has a similar refractive index to lead crystal, but it is lighter and it has less dispersive power and lacks the high ring and prism value sought after by serious collectors therefore, creating a high demand for vintage “lead” crystal in centre pieces and decorative arts.
