My guy decided awhile back that I had to have a mini collection of glass and crystal animals and acquired a dew pieces for me. I have to admit that they are not really my `thing`, but I also have to admit that they are pretty, when dusted. That doesn`t happen often I`m afraid.
This Snowy Owl paperweight was made by Cristal DÀrques of France. No idea of the age. You can see that it still has the label which tells me that it is 24% lead crystal.
I thought I`d include some definitions of lead from The Encyclopedia of Glass by Mark Pickvet. This is a very informative book.
“Lead crystal – Crystal or colorless glass made with a high lead content. Most lead crystals are based on the European Standard Formula of 1865.“
`Full Lead Crystal – Colorless glass containing a minimum of 30% lead content.
`Half Lead Crystal – Colorless glass containing a minimum of 24% lead content (lower lead content and hence, lower quality than full lead crystal).
My half lead crystal piece is quite striking piece. Lots of lovely detailing. The owl`s glance is quite piercing. Maybe my guy is on to something.
Hi d.b.,
Is Lead Crystal different then Lead? Lead is a bad thing and do not want to be handling it too much, right?
If it’s not a different lead then wouldn’t it be bad to handle this Owl with all the Lead in it ??
I have the same Owl and was putting it up for sale. If it is dangerous Lead then maybe I won’t sell it?
Thanks,
John
No worries. Lead crystal has a certain percentage of lead added to the glass formula. But I’ve never heard/read that it is considered toxic in any way. cheers. d.b.