# Glass and crystal

> Glass and crystal are melted, blown and cut into beads, cabochons and faceted stones with great shine and color at an accessible price.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/glass-and-crystal/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-08-30
- Updated: 2026-08-30
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/vidrio-y-cristal/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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Glass is one of the most versatile materials in jewelry: it is blown, fused, molded and cut into beads, cabochons and faceted stones. Crystal (glass with metal oxides, traditionally lead) refracts light better and gives a special sparkle; today many faceted crystal stones are made lead-free.

## Properties

- **Composition:** silica (sand) with fluxes and stabilizers; crystal adds metal oxides.
- **Hardness:** around 5-6 on the Mohs scale.
- **Techniques:** blowing, lampworking (torch), fusing, Murano glass and faceted cutting.
- **Color:** almost any, through metal oxides and colorants.
- **Brittleness:** it breaks with knocks and sudden temperature changes.

## Uses in jewelry

- Glass and lampwork beads for necklaces and bracelets.
- Crystal cabochons and faceted stones in settings.
- Handmade pieces in fused and blown glass.
- Gemstone imitations in costume jewelry.

## Pros and cons

### Advantages

- A huge variety of colors and shapes.
- Inexpensive and brilliant.
- It can be worked by hand.

### Limitations

- It is fragile.
- It scratches more than hard gemstones.
- It lacks the value of natural gems.

## Care and cleaning

- Avoid knocks and sudden temperature changes.
- Clean with lukewarm water, mild soap and a lint-free cloth.
- Store it apart from hard pieces that could scratch it.

## See also

- [Enamel](https://www.711grados.com/en/enamel/)
- [Resin](https://www.711grados.com/en/resin/)
- [Ceramics and porcelain](https://www.711grados.com/en/ceramics-and-porcelain/)