Bohemian Crystal is a type of hand cut and blown glass that originates from the central European regions of Bohemia and Silesia, which are now a part of Czech Republic. This type of crystal is highly renowned for its high quality, craftsmanship and its unique beauty and innovative techniques. Crystal is one of the most popular products produced in these regions of Europe. In addition to its beauty, it is very durable and is one of the oldest glass types. This type of crystal dates back to the Renaissance where it started to become famous for its beauty and colorful nature. The Bohemian crystal was born out of the Crystal Valley region which encompasses the Jizerske Mountains and the Lusatian mountains running from Kamenicky Senov to Desna and Turnov. The Crystal Valley region is home to many glass companies, schools and the Glass Center for research. The glassmaking industry in this region dates back over 460 years all the way to 1548. There they created the perfect glass bead, the world's first cut stone-the Chanton and the first majestic chandelier. Many factories today utilize 21st century cutting edge technology in addition to unique handwork and is the leading international glass manufacturer. They are constantly pushing their limits in the glassmaking industry. Bohemian chandeliers in particular date back to 1687 and by 1724 a guy by the name of Josef Palme was given permission to start producing them. These timeless chandeliers were utilized in royal palaces and historical places all over such as The Hall of Mirrors at Versailles during the 1700s and beyond. Finally in the 1900s they made their way over to the United States.

Recognizing the unique qualities of Bohemian Crystal comes with understanding what the simple difference between what glass and crystal are. Crystal differs in meaning from one part of the world to the next but in the western world it often refers to glass with the presence of lead in it. Glass is essentially made up of melted sand. In the United States, any glass with greater than 1 percent lead content is deemed a crystal but in Europe the lead content must be 24 percent or greater for it to be considered crystal glass. This unique and timeless type of glass is used in light fixtures and chandeliers of luxury hotels, royal palaces, public institutions and private residences all across the world. It is known for its brilliance because incorporates high amounts of lead in order to cause a high refractive index. This high refractive index in turn gives the ability for the fixture to separate the light into all of its individual colors. Low quality crystal on the other hand will not have the glistening sparkle that high quality crystal does and will often be foggier and faint. The presence of lead oxide in the crystal softens it and makes it easier to engrave and cut. Cuts in the glass also allows for light to shine through the object and gives of a stunning glistening effect. These qualities in the crystal are long lasting and these types of fixtures do not need to be replaced for many years.

“For me, the key to using crystal, says Henessy Wayser, Chief Creative Officer and Designer at French Heritage, is to blend tradition and modern. That is how I designed the Raw Crystal Floating Chandelier. It is made of raw (but polished) blocks of glass, each one different in shape and size, suspended with (almost invisible) steel cables that allow the crystal to “float in the air” and the light coming from the top is diffused through all these elements. It really is at home in a contemporary setting as well as in a Pallazo and that is what I love about it.”

Bohemian Crystals may be used to make timeless, elegant and beautiful fixtures that we custom make at French Heritage. Our pieces are unique in that they can be sized and designed to fit any location from an entry foyer to a grand ballroom. We will work with you to create a piece that fits your unique shape, size and color needs. So, if you are looking for a timeless fixture that combines the unique history of the Crystal Valley with a stunning look, please contact us.

Exquisite High Quality Bohemian Crystal

West Coast.