Crystal glassware
Lead crystal is made by adding lead oxide to hot, molten glass during the fabrication process. This process creates reflection and refraction of light and produces sparkle. Crystal glassware remains a popular choice purely for artistic elegance and appeal. The charm and beauty of crystal glassware is greatly reduced by any damage, especially chips. Fortunately most chipped crystal glassware can be repaired, although not to its original state. Chips can be minimized or evened out. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Make a paste with baking soda and water. Use a clean, soft rag to apply the paste to the chip, including approximately 1/8 inch on each side of the chip. Rub in a back and forth motion over the chip to even out any sharp edges. Continue rubbing until the chip is gone. This method works well for very minor chips.
2. Apply white toothpaste with a clean, soft rag to the chip and slightly beyond. Buff until the chip is less noticeable to the touch. Do not use gel toothpaste because it is not abrasive. A mildly abrasive toothpaste is required. This approach works well for minor chips.
3. Use jeweler's rouge polishing compound and a small rotary buffing tool such as a Dremel rotary tool. Apply the jeweler's rouge to a felt head accessory. Carefully and slowly buff the chip out of the crystal glassware and even out the rim. This method will leave the rim of the glass shorter and will leave a white discoloration.
4. Use an adhesive especially made for glass repair, if you can find the chipped piece. These specialized adhesives are resistant to liquids, even boiling water. Adhesives form a very strong bond, although there may be a noticeable line where the repair was made.
5. Employ a professional crystal restoration specialist for deep chips or large chips, which will be virtually impossible to remove at home. If you own very expensive heirloom or irreplaceable crystal, a fine glass or crystal repair shop is the safest and most effective resource for restoring crystal glassware.
Tags: clean soft, crystal glassware, jeweler rouge, minor chips, This method
