Jane Cook, chief scientist at CMOG, explains, “Barium crystal is far less toxic, but it’s also harder than leaded crystal. While there are many formulas used to make non-leaded crystal, glass manufacturers commonly use additives such as barium. Wine glass makers can also pull it thinner than soda-lime glass, which results in thin rims and flawless bowls and stems. It’s more refractive-that is, super-sparkly––than soda-lime glass, and more expensive. Non-leaded (or lead-free) crystal, not to be confused with quartz crystal, is a type of lead-free glass that’s similar in appearance to leaded crystal (which most manufacturers have moved away from using, since lead is a very toxic, highly regulated material).
