If you get to choose just one thing to enhance the look of your ceiling, what is the first thing that comes to your mind? I bet it is the chandelier. The answer is quite obvious. Even though they are hung on the ceiling, they are considered the crown of the ceiling. The crystals in the chandeliers are like gems in jewelry.
Just like gems, there are different types of crystals ranging in quality. If you are looking for a high-quality cheap chandelier, you still have a huge variety of options. Sofary is one of the best brands in the USA that produces antique and best-quality chandeliers at affordable prices. They cut the cost by bringing the chandeliers directly from the designers, thus cutting the middle man.
The high cost must not come in the middle of your chandelier dream.
What Are the Crystals Made Of?
Ever wondered what are these star-like shining crystals made of? Essentially, the crystals are made by the composition of silica, potash ad lead oxide. The lead oxide is added to the basic glass mixture to add a glass-like refracting effect. The leaded glass contains somewhere between 5 to 20% of lead content. Such a mixture is used to make low-quality chandeliers.
Even though today, the definition of leaded glass and crystals have become somewhat vague, traditionally, when lead content exceeds 20%, we can call it a crystal. The optimal content of lead is 20-30%. This adds the best and maximum refraction effect to the crystal. If the led content is increased, the crystal may become fragile.
Considerations While Buying A Crystal
Crystal is nothing but a type of glass. Even the making process is somewhat similar. Both of them are made by heating a mixture to a molten state. Then, this molten solution is poured into a mold wherein, it gains the shape of the crystal. The crystal cools down like a cake. However, it must be taken care that the outer part cools faster than the internal part.
This difference in temperature is represented by very fine striations on the surface of the crystals. They are often confused with fingerprints. However, they, later, impede the refraction of light. A low-class crystal is made with complete ignorance of the cooling process and thus is full of distortions.
One more thing that must be taken care of is to not confuse acrylic glass with crystal. Acrylic is dull, light, has poor finishing, and is not clear at all. Glass is better than acrylic but lacks the refracting properties of crystals. You may often see bubbles inside of the glass crystals. Such crystals are to be avoided in totality.
Also, be aware of the Chinese crystals which are essentially borosilicate glass. It is not a crystal in a real sense because it has a lead content of only 10%. K5 and K9 are forms of borosilicate glass where their numbers represent the percentage of lead in them.
Conclusion
Crystals are beautiful pieces of art that enhance the looks and feel of a chandelier. However, you must stay vigilant while buying a crystal.
