With the current popularity of design themes that tend to be minimalist and a growing preference for technology themes, some have asked if crystal vases are still crave-worthy or at the very least, relevant for the modern times. Crystal vases have long been associated with French Baroque themes or Victorian/old English houses or such similar designs that tend towards excess, themes which are no longer considered fashionable or in vogue.
Diamonds are forever—and so are Crystal Vases
Crystal vases are such magnificently looking artifices that their use as decoration is not really subject to the usual criteria for fashion appropriateness. Much like diamonds, crystal vases and other such glassware are inherently not faddish. They are not like clothes that lose favor with fashion gurus after a certain amount of elapsed time.
True, crystal vases have normally been associated with use in palaces—much like during the time of Marie Antoinette and old English houses that have become synonymous with the word ‘old-fashioned’.
However, when one comes to think of it, a simple reason that could explain away the use of crystal in such baroque/old English abodes is the simple fact that the art of crystal cut-glass making began and developed in this part of the world. England was the first country to introduce industrial scale production of lead glass crystal and the rest of old world Europe helped to perfect the art of crystal glass making through the centuries. Many of today’s established names in crystal glass originate from this part of the world.
Crystal vases, even those that have been handed down through generations (hence, the assumption of ‘out of style’ design) will find a place in any home. The truth of the matter is, crystal has always been associated with opulence and allure and those kinds of things never go out of style.
Crystal vases can easily support, even enhance, a modern theme if that is what is desired. It really depends on their application (where they are placed), quantity, and chosen design of selected pieces.
And last but not the least, crystal vases besides being elegant works of art have a functional aspect to them. Without debate, the crystal vase’s aesthetic appeal is even more enhanced when flowers are placed in them.
Evolving with the times
The beauty of cut glass crystal is in its flexibility to reflect a particular design theme. Its silhouette can be easily shaped to show a smooth contour that will evoke a feeling of simplicity and elegance. On the one hand, it can be etched to great detail to show a multi-colored, sparkling surface to convey complexity or opulence.
And these are the reasons why crystal vases will never go out of style. Crystal vases will continue to be given as wedding and house-blessing gifts (and what a friend you have in those who give them), displayed in homes whether they be small or large, and treasured by generations to come.
