Is it possible to use lead crystal (like Sw... Austrian crystal is made out of) to make lampworked beads? Are rods of the stuff available even? If so, are there safety problems that make it unsuitable for small studio/upclose work? Would the "zing" of lead crystal even be apparent in something as small as a (non-facetted) bead? Kaytee "Simplexities" on
Yes, you can use lead crystal, and there are companies that sell lead glass, which has a definitely sparklier, more lustrous look. Health risks are minimal, which is to say that even people who work blowing lead glass for their whole lives are not known to have appreciable lead buildup in their systems. As with any glass, proper ventilation is crucial. Highly leaded glass is generally much softer and more malleable, but not always; boro high in lead.
You can melt down old chipped chandelier crystals, to good effect.
-Kalera
Schott makes a "lead crystal" line of glass - but it is not in rod form. Paul Stankard uses it for his paperweights... I have some I hand pulled from the "pucks" you can buy from Schott.
it is not compatible with our regular beadmaking glass....
I am sure it is not the exact formula as Swarovski..... each manufacturer has their own "forumula" for lead glass.
as for "zing" -- yes - it is a bit more clear and sharp (If you have seen paul stankard paperweights - you know the quality of his clear glass - it's Schott).
in a bead - I don't know that you would see much difference in an unfaceted bead.....
Cheryl DRAGON BEADS Flameworked beads and glass
Ah, well... just wondering. Playing with lampwork "orphans" and crystals last night.... Kaytee "Simplexities" on
Satake glass has a line of lead rods. In clear and some colors.
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