Is Mikasa Crystal Always Leaded?

February 4, 2010, by Debra Lynn Dadd

Question from artsy

Hi, I am trying to find out if all of the Mikasa "crystal" pieces are actually leaded or are they just glass? I am trying to eliminate us using these dishes if they contain an amount of lead. We will put them in our china cabinet to enjoy them. 

Cari

Debra's Answer

I just went to the mikasa website and looked at their crystal.

I only had to look at one piece to find "24% full lead crystal" in the description. So just read the descriptions and see if you find any that aren't lead crystal. I do see that there are some wine glasses and goblets on their website that do not say "lead crystal," so you just have to check piece by piece.

"Crystal" glassware is so-called because it is usually cut to have facets that sparkle. And that sparkle comes from lead. So if your glassware is cut, it probably contains lead. If you know the name of your pattern, you can call Mikasa and verify it's lead crystal.