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Glass is a substance which has been in existence for more than four thousand years. It is made from the melting together of silica with borate's or phosphates at very high temperatures. It is also found in nature, as the volcanic material obsidian. Usually transparent, glass can also be translucent or, when mixed with metallic oxides, coloured.

Traditionally, glassware was handblown by craftsmen, though today it is more likely to be pressed into shape through the use of moulds. Crystal is made from potassium-silicate formulas that include lead oxide. Lead-Crystal is made with a greater percentage of this formula, hence its increased weight, brilliance and clarity.

Glassware falls mainly into two groupings: stemware and barware. Stemware includes any glass on a stem (champagne, red wine, etc.), while barware includes any glass with a solid, flat base.

When choosing glassware for your gift list or new home, there are a few things to consider: the number of people you usually entertain at any one time your entertaining style - casual or formal what you typically drink your crockery or china pattern maintenance ordering a few extras in case of breakage.

A basic stemware collection includes water, wine, and champagne glasses. A complete collection includes specific glasses for red and white wines, water, and champagne.

A basic barware collection includes tumblers and highballs. A complete collection includes glasses for beer, martinis, and other cocktails or liqueurs.

Types of Glassware

Double-Old Fashioned - Also known as a "tumbler", this glass is short and wide and is typically used for mixed drinks (whiskey and water) and cold beverages.

HighBall - May be referred to as a "tall glass" or, in America and elsewhere, as an "iced tea" glass. Its high shape and cylindrical form make it ideal for mixed drinks (gin & tonics), minerals, juices and milk.

White - Sometimes called a "Bordeaux" glass. It is a stemmed glass with a narrow profile, which may be used informally as a water or a red wine glass.

Red - Frequently called a "burgundy" glass. This stemmed glass, with its rounded bowl, allows red wines to breathe.

Balloon - With its oversized bowl, the balloon glass enhances the aroma of wine. It may also be used as a water glass.

Champagne Flute - The tall, narrow shape of this glass preserves the bubbles found in champagne or sparkling wine, while the stem keeps hands away from the bowl, thus keeping the liquid inside cool.

Pilsner - A tall, tapered glass, with a bottom base-shape similar to a wine glass. A pilsner is ideal for serving beer as its fluted form can hold a full head.

Martini - A stemmed glass with a wide, shallow bowl. Excellent for serving the beverage for which it is named, margaritas and daiquiris.