Glass vs. Crystal: How We Rate Them and Why You Need Both

When you run a small business, your products are like your children. How can you love one more than another? I see each one of Clink's products for its unique attributes.

On the one hand, fine crystal has an amazing sparkle and shine. But it's not the most practical choice for every occasion. It has expensive tastes. You might even call it high-maintenance.

Then there's glass. Beautiful and reliable, and a lot more easy-going. Not afraid to work hard and get bumped around a little.

See my dilemma? I think they're all great.

To help you choose what's right for you, Clink has created a new glass and crystal rating system that explains the features of our different types of glass and crystal products.

So let's take a look at some of their basic differences.

Elegant and Sophisticated Crystal

Crystal has a distinctive clarity and sparkle that's unmatched. Since lead oxide is added in the manufacturing process, it has a lower working temperature and higher viscosity, so there's more time to mold or blow it. That means it can be worked thinner than glass.

Lead is also the reason why crystal refracts light. If you hold it up to the light, you'll see tiny prisms like rainbows. If it's faceted, it has even more sparkle. One way you can tell it's crystal is by tapping it with a fork or spoon. Crystal makes a distinctive ringing sound.

Gorgeous, Easy-Going Glass

Glass is more worry-free than crystal. High quality glass barware and servingware is virtually indistinguishable from crystal, yet quite a bit sturdier. That's why it's ideal for casual dining and everyday use. Many of our glass products are even dishwasher safe.

So while you're looking through the site at all my "kids," be sure to click on each one to see the full description and rating. Or just take a look at our entire rating system and read about "The Clink Difference."