Crystal Glass
A Brief Outline Of The History Of Glass
During very early civilisation, a discovery that an erupting volcano resulted in natural glass becoming formed. Early man used this product for spear tips. Archaeologists have suggested that man had made glass as far back as 4000 BC.
Glass blowing became a popular method of making containers ever since the first century BC, and, due to the make up of the raw materials, the glass was highly coloured – a form of natural stained glass, which these days is a highly skilled and sought after art!
You will not be surprised to learn that the Romans brought the knowledge of glass making to our shores when they invaded Britain. Gradually this skill spread throughout Europe and other countries. For instance, Venetians are acknowledged for their technical and artistic skills.
Back in Britain, George Ravenscroft created Crystal Glass in 1676, by introducing lead to the raw materials to try to eliminate the cloudiness from blown glass. His knowledge has resulted in many modern-day items, such as optical lenses. His experiment resulted in a heavy, but very clear glass.
In the 18th & 19th Centuries there was a tax on glass and many houses could be seen with bricked up windows or even very small windows to ensure little glass was used. This law was repealed in 1845. Joseph Paxton’s Crystal Palace at the Great Exhibition in 1851, was all the encouragement people needed to use glass once more when building homes and also in industry.
Techniques also improved; today glass is apparent in everyday items such as coffee jars, mirrors, doors and even glass ornaments. Recycling is also a very important activity, saving the need to use ever reducing raw materials being excavated.
There are many famous Crystal glass making companies – Waterford Crystal originally producing in Ireland; Swarowski Crystal, used in fine jewellery and is more commonly known as Rhinestone, having been produced next to the Rhine River in Austria.
How To Clean Your Crystal Glass
Crystal Glass, or cut glass, can get very cloudy with constant usage. Not an attractive look when offering your guests a drink! Don’t despair – there is a very simple solution. Simply give your Crystal Glass a wash by hand in hot, soapy water. Do not dry them but immerse them in a bowl using a solution, water mixed with a few dashes of vinegar. Let them dry naturally. Don’t be tempted to use a soft dry cloth. Leaving the Crystal Glass to dry this way will make sure they come up Crystal clear!
What Is Crystal Healing / Therapy?
This is an ancient healing method using the precise placement of crystals on the body and around the room. According to the Greeks, each Crystal has its own powers. For instance, they believe an Amethyst crystal will prevent drunkenness. Each crystal colour represents a different point on the body, and their effect can release blockages to restore natural energies around the body.
Science does not support the use of Crystals for healing medically, but they have been apparently successful in bringing a peaceful and relaxed state of mind to the user.
A cynic might claim Crystal Healing is the result of “mind over matter” where you can persuade yourself that your problems are cured, so you then begin to feel better, even if nothing has really changed.
