Discover Artisan Du Cristal's world Artisan Du Cristal KLEIN in a few dates ... 1978 : Beginning of a wonderful story between Valery Klein and Cristal.1980 : Valery Klein obtained his Journeyman's certificated and learnt from the Best Crystal Craftsman Masters all around Europe.1997 : Opening of the shop in Vallauris (FRANCE) Valery Klein founder of Artisan du Cristal KLEIN Valery Klein, in his workshop 'I have always been fond of creation. Crystal is a noble material that I have always find fascinating. During my journey as a craftsman, I had the chance to work with the greatest crystal masters of the world. This has allow me to create a wide range of innovative pieces and more classic creations.' From father to Son, Skills transmitted for two generations ... It was through his father’s work that Valéry KLEIN discovered his passion for crystal. He began learning his craft at the age of 14. After working with the best French and foreign workers, Valery Klein obtained his diploma in 1980 and founded his company : Artisan du Cristal KLEIN. Our Collections Decorative Objects Various decorative objects: To embellish your interior, whether modern or stylish, you will find your happiness for a perfect harmony. Glassware Whisky glasses, wine glasses, tumbler, champagne glasses, cocktails glasses, wine decanter, champagne Bucket in white crystal or colored. Discover of all our pieces. Lamps Handmade Crystal lamps, with color inclusions obtained by applying vitrified enamels; placed on a transparent crystal base. 100% French Craftsmanship Handmade PiecesPieces are coming directly from our workshop Step 1 : Raw Materials and Melting Point Crystal is a combination of these different materials : 55% de silica31% lead oxide13% potash1% various materials All of these are heated at 2642°F Step 2 : Hot Working The crystal is picked from the oven, then blown by mouth into an iron or wooden mold to give rise to the final shape. The leg and the foot will be stretched directly as an extension of the same operation in the case of a stemmed glass. Step 3 : Cold Working This is the step that enhances the crystal's exceptional clarity. With the help of diamond grinding wheels, the pieces are sculpted, cut and polished according to different angles giving a thousand reflections to the creations. Why Choose Crystal over Glass ? Glass Composition Glass is composed mainly of Silica, which gives a dull finish. The material has greenish reflections in its thickness as well as bubbles which is one of its specificity. Glass Work Works at 1922°F, production is faster and less expensive. Given its composition, it is a difficult material for cold working. Polishing on the glass is not possible which therefore limits the possibilities of decorations and other cold work. Crystal Composition Crystal is composed of silica, lead oxide and potash. The addition of lead and potash oxide increases the refraction of light which makes the piece brighter. Crystal Work Works at 2642°F, production is longer and more technical. The material is more difficult to work with, but there are more possibilities for working techniques such as cutting, polishing, adding enamels to obtain polychrome colors, etc.
