Difference Between Russian & Austrian Crystal

Different amounts of lead are used in Russian versus Austrian crystal.

Austrian and Russian crystal are both types of man-made crystal. They are not the same thing as crystals that occur in nature. Austrian and Russian crystal are made by adding lead to glass. Austrian crystal usually refers to Swarovski crystal.

Origin

Russian crystal production began in Kiev in the 11th century. Now most Russian crystal is made in St. Petersburg. Some crystal may have been made in Austria's early history, but Austrian crystal as we know it was made by Daniel Swarovski in the late 1800s.

Products

Russian crystal is typically used for stemware and crystal eggs. There is some jewelry made with Russian crystal, but that is not the typical product. Austrian, or Swarovski, crystal is usually used in jewelry, watches and figurines.

Percent of Lead

Swarovski crystal contains 32 percent lead. Russian crystal, made by companies such as Borisov, Dyatkovsky and Neman, is usually 24 percent lead.

References

• Crystals.com: FAQ
• Jewelrymade4u.com: What Is the Difference Between Glass and Crystal
• St Petersburger: Russian Crystal