Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500046
06/24/03
Types of Glass
Glass, Characteristics
Glass is made from silica and other materials. It is
not affected by the weather nor by most chemicals. Most
glassware is easily broken by blows; sometimes hitting it
hard only damages the glass invisibly so that later it
shatters from just a light impact. Glass is blown or
molded into many shapes for decorative items, and for
beverage glasses and other eating and serving dishes.
Crystal is made from the same basic material as glass
but lead is added to fine crystal which adds sparkle and
strength.
Heat-resistant glassware has been treated to withstand
high temperatures. Such utensils may break when subjected
to sudden changes in temperature. Ovenware is not suitable
for top-of-range use as it is not made to stand direct
flame heat.
Glass ceramics are made from hard crystalline
materials which were first used on missile nose cones.
Glass ceramics are used for range tops, counter tops,
dinnerware, and cookware. The cookware may be used in the
oven, under the broiler, on the stove, or in the microwave
oven. They are guaranteed by the manufacturer not to break
from temperature change.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability,
political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .