The ring....

Hello all, I just have a question, no pictures required. I am told the quality of crystal can be determined by the ring of the rim. Is this true? I have certainly been able to hear the difference in some stemware as an example but what is better is a good question. If this is true perhaps, like a lot of things, much experience is required. All input and advice will be appreciated. Thanks. P Rat.

 

I think experience is required for that kind of thing. I know that the duration of the ring can indicate a type of glass. Flint glass, for example, really sustains a tone when pinged. I don't know if you ever get beyond generalities with that sort of thing. Of course, with both glass and china, pinging the rim can warn you of cracks you might not have otherwise noticed.

 

Good crystal has a very clear ring.

Are you near a large department store with a good China and Crystal department.
Go in and ping some of the glass in the housewares department. It will thud. Then go to the china department and ping Gorham, Lenox and then ask to see some of the Orrefors, Lalique and/or Baccarat.
You will be able to discern a noticeable difference in quality. Which should help you when looking at older glassware.

 

Shape of the object also affects the nature of the ring as does the quality of the ringers hearing. It is a fun place to start but not a good place to end. Learn patterns and makers and styles is more effective in the long run. Also remember that in the EU crystal must have a 24% lead content and for USA makers it meant colorless glass. Lead does not make the metal any better only a little softer so it is easier to cut. There is a wide range of quality in metal that does not have lead in it.

 

On the other and, the ping can be a good way to check for hairlines and other problems; if it doesn't sound right it may not be "right". That works for porcelain too.

 

The 'ping' is due to metal, really lead, in glass. High quality lead glass contains more than 24% lead oxide. However, crystal with 4% lead oxide will 'ping' just as well as 30% lead. Don't depend on just sound.