Is crystal glass real crystal?

Yes, crystal glass is real crystal. However, it's important to understand what the term means. In the world of glassware, crystal is a type of glass that features an additive like lead oxide, potassium carbonate or barium oxide to increase its durability. Crystal glass is crystal because it contains these additives, but it does not actually have a crystalline structure from a scientific perspective. The term crystal as used by glassworks comes from the word "Cristallo," which was pioneered by Italian glassblowers to describe high-end glassware. It doesn't have the same meaning as the word crystal when employed in scientific contexts. Shop a large collection of crystal glass on 1stDibs.