How do you care for crystal glassware?

Keeping your crystal collection sparkling and pristine is key to having glassware that lasts. We recommend washing each piece by hand in warm water using a mild detergent and then drying the glasses with a lint-free cloth. When washing and drying, be mindful not to twist the bowl in the opposite direction of the stem. Although putting the glassware in the dishwasher may be tempting, it will ultimately dull or scratch the surface of your glasses. Extreme temperatures can also cause damage to crystal, so that's a hard no to hot liquids, the microwave, and the freezer. Finally, avoid storing or drying your glassware upside down, as the finely made rims are the most fragile part of your crystal glassware.

What’s the difference between glass and crystal?

The key difference between crystal and glass is that crystal contains minerals that allow for a durable but thin glass with premium clarity—think c rystal clear . Traditionally, real crystal contained lead, so if you’re thinking about purchasing a vintage set, you may want to take this into consideration. Nowadays, most crystal is lead-free, but if it’s a concern, double-check the contents of the material before purchasing. Glass tends to be lower in cost, will not absorb aromas, and is always dishwasher safe. Most glasses that are made of glass will have a lip at the rim, which is not ideal. Borosilicate glass, however, is high in durability as well as heat and scratch-resistant.

How can you identify real crystal?

If you find glassware that you love but aren’t sure if it’s crystal or glass, hold it to the light and look for a rainbow prism effect—if you see it, it’s usually legit. Or tap the glass and listen for a musical ring that’s typical of crystal. If it’s cut glassware, you'll tend to see more rounded, polished edges, while cut crystal features sharper lines. And look to see if it sparkles—if so, it's most likely the real thing!

The 10 Best Crystal Glassware Picks of 2023

Crystal is known for its clarity, shine, and ability to refract light, which gives it a truly stunning quality that accentuates every drink. It's no wonder that crystal glassware is a treasured item in many people’s homes. Whether you’re choosing a set of fancy glasses for your registry or gifting them to someone else, they make a brilliant addition to a home—and may even become a cherished family heirloom someday.

As beautiful as it is, crystal glassware is so much more than decorative tableware—these pieces are meant to be used! Crystal glassware comes in many shapes and forms, with options for every drink, style, and occasion. So it’s essential to decide on what you’ll be using it for and narrow it down from there. Looking for cocktail glasses? Think about what kind of cocktails are your favorites. Highballs are great for a variety of drinks, including iced tea and water. But if you’re a gin and tonic lover, you may want to invest in a set of balloon-shaped gin glasses that accentuate the aromas and qualities of the spirit. If wine is your thing, make sure the shape of the bowl complements your vino of choice. And if you’re not all that picky, then go for something versatile—or just plain pretty!

Read on for the best crystal glassware.

In This Article

Our Picks
What to look for in crystal glassware
FAQ
Why Trust Us

Schott Zwiesel Sensa Red Wine Glass, Set of 6

Macy's

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These glasses hit all the marks—gorgeous, functional, versatile, and built to last. Each was designed with the input of experts, assuring a bowl that accentuates the very best in each wine. This crystal formula incorporates titanium, meaning extra strength and durability that stands the test of time—and the dishwasher. They come in a range of shapes for certain types of wine, stemless, or in a set with a mix of glasses for both red and white wines.

Price at time of publish: $96 for universal pick

Amazon

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Stemless glasses are trending—and with good reason! These versatile glasses are casual enough for a weeknight glass of vino but chic enough for your next cheese board party. We like this set because it brings together timeless quality with modern design—plus, they’re stackable! The more glasses means the more friends you can celebrate with!

Price at time of publish: $106

Villeroy & Boch New Moon White Wine Glasses

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Just because you don’t want to break the bank on a set of wine glasses, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality or design. These lightweight glasses are made of premium crystal and have a contemporary, classic design. They come in a range of shapes to suit any type of wine or bubbly—boom!

Waterford Gin Journeys Elegance Balloon Gin Glasses

Courtesy of Macy's

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If you’re serious about gin, you’ll want a set of glassware that’s perfectly designed to let this liquor sing. While highball glasses are commonly used for things like gin cocktails, balloon glasses are better for allowing the spirit to breathe. This set has been designed with the help of experts to better enrich the aromas of the spirits.

Price at time of publish: $100

Bloomingdale's

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Developed in collaboration with wine expert Bruno Quenioux, this set is ideal for the novice or wine enthusiast alike. It comes complete with two wine glasses, a champagne flute, and a goblet so you can enjoy a range of libations!

Price at time of publish: $450

Bloomingdale's

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Looking for cut crystal glassware that doesn’t feel too grandma? These glasses are a great option. With a subtle, delicate design at the base, they’re traditional enough for a formal wedding table setting but contemporary enough to feel au courant.

Price at time of publish: $100

4.6

Wine Enthusiast

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This set of universal wine glasses hits all the marks. From the shape of the bowl that has been specifically designed to bring out and accentuate the complexity of each wine to the delicate and durable design, these glasses are legit. Plus, Zalto has been hand-blowing the finest European crystal glassware for six generations, so we trust them!

Price at time of publish: $951

Courtesy of Zola

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Jewel tone crystal? It’s a thing! This hand-blown collection comes in a range of shapes in pretty much every color under the rainbow. So if you’re craving a set of violet wine glasses or yellow coupes—look no further.

Price at time of publish: $170 for Estelle Stemless Wine Glass, Set Of 6

Bormioli Rocco Italian Classic Cocktail Glasses

Courtesy of Food52

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For the cocktail connoisseur, it’s all about the presentation. And serving up a drink in the proper glass can be as essential as the drink itself. From martinis to gin fizzes, this vintage-inspired set has it all. Choose to purchase a la carte or as a full set so that the glassware will be as perfect as the cocktail it’s served in.

Price at time of publish: $116 for full bar

Willow Park Sutherland Martini Glasses, Set of 4

Courtesy of Zola

View On Zola

What’s more perfect than a crisp martini at the end of a long day? A martini served in this gorgeous glass! This vintage-inspired design has a striking deep V-shaped body. Patterned with finely ribbed lines that cast light across surfaces, these glasses add a touch of magic—and glamour—to any occasion.

Price at time of publish: $40

What to look for in crystal glassware

Crystal glassware comes in many shapes and forms with a multitude of options to choose from depending on how you plan to use the glassware and your personal style. Look for high-quality glasses that are well-designed and durable, assuring they’ll stand the test of time. If you like to entertain, look for a mixed set that will provide lots of options depending on what type of wine or cocktail you’re enjoying.

FAQ

How do you care for crystal glassware?

Keeping your crystal collection sparkling and pristine is key to having glassware that lasts. We recommend washing each piece by hand in warm water using a mild detergent and then drying the glasses with a lint-free cloth. When washing and drying, be mindful not to twist the bowl in the opposite direction of the stem.

Although putting the glassware in the dishwasher may be tempting, it will ultimately dull or scratch the surface of your glasses. Extreme temperatures can also cause damage to crystal, so that's a hard no to hot liquids, the microwave, and the freezer. Finally, avoid storing or drying your glassware upside down, as the finely made rims are the most fragile part of your crystal glassware.
What’s the difference between glass and crystal?

The key difference between crystal and glass is that crystal contains minerals that allow for a durable but thin glass with premium clarity—think crystal clear. Traditionally, real crystal contained lead, so if you’re thinking about purchasing a vintage set, you may want to take this into consideration. Nowadays, most crystal is lead-free, but if it’s a concern, double-check the contents of the material before purchasing.

Glass tends to be lower in cost, will not absorb aromas, and is always dishwasher safe. Most glasses that are made of glass will have a lip at the rim, which is not ideal. Borosilicate glass, however, is high in durability as well as heat and scratch-resistant.
How can you identify real crystal?

If you find glassware that you love but aren’t sure if it’s crystal or glass, hold it to the light and look for a rainbow prism effect—if you see it, it’s usually legit. Or tap the glass and listen for a musical ring that’s typical of crystal. If it’s cut glassware, you'll tend to see more rounded, polished edges, while cut crystal features sharper lines. And look to see if it sparkles—if so, it's most likely the real thing!

Why Trust Brides

Brides contributor Elizabeth MacLennan has been scouring marketplaces around the world for over 15 years as a prop stylist—hunting down that just right object. Read: She’s seen just about everything when it comes to tableware! With a discerning eye and astute mind, she considers quality, function, and design when she’s vetting products. That means these crystal glassware recommendations have passed the test.