Glass Knobs and Pulls Versus Crystal Knobs and Pulls – Which is More Durable?
Crystal and glass may appear to look the same to the naked eye, but the composition of each is what gives the two their notable difference. While all crystal is made of glass, not all glass can be classified as crystal. Crystal glass is usually categorized as having a percentage (an amount which varies among different countries around the world) of lead oxide added to its composition. Without lead, and often other small infusions of different elements, added to the makeup of the product–the composition is just what we would call basic silica glass.
So let’s say you are deciding between a crystal knob and a glass knob for your front door or for your kitchen cabinets. You aren’t so concerned with price or design, but rather, which one will hold up the longest? Thus, which of the two materials will be more durable? The answer is crystal – but expect that it will come with an added cost.
Because of the addition of lead into glass, crystal is heavier than its counterpart. Therefore, its added weight gives crystal more durability over the long haul. On a side note, crystal is also clearer and brighter than glass, and can reflect light better. This is why some people prefer crystal in their lights and chandeliers, in order to give their room a brighter and more beautiful ambience.
But back to the durability question. Again, because of the added weight that crystal has, it is heavier by nature and will feel more solid to someone holding it. Also, glass tends to be hollow on the inside whereas crystal items are generally pure crystal all the way through. But be careful. Just because crystal is more durable and solid than glass, doesn’t mean it is any less fragile. Crystal is actually softer than glass and can break just as easily when dropped. However, crystal’s composition allows for better protection against wind and weather elements than glass does.
The basic compositional difference between glass and crystal is what gives crystal its heavier feel and more durable characteristics. It also tends to be a more reflective material, making any room light up just that much brighter. If you find yourself most concerned with long-lasting function, then you definitely want to purchase crystal. Lookintheattic.com has a wide variety of crystal (and glass) items from knobs and pulls, to rosettes, to even fine tableware.
