ColleVilca - Vetreria del cristallo artigianale

ColleVilca is a working crystal glassworks in Colle di Val d'Elsa, continuing a craft tradition that shaped the Tuscan town.

Why it matters

Colle di Val d'Elsa has made glass for centuries and developed industrial crystal production in the nineteenth century. ColleVilca carries this tradition forward through hand-blown crystal and designs developed with architects and other professionals.

What to notice

The workshop's hand-blowing and shaping techniques leave small variations in finished pieces. ColleVilca has also developed a lead-free crystal mixture intended to retain the brilliance and transparency associated with lead crystal.

Context and history

Glassmaking in Colle is documented from the Middle Ages. A crystal factory opened in 1820, and the Schmid family later became known for grinding and intaglio work. ColleVilca was established in 1960 through the merger of two historic factories; lead crystal production followed in 1963. The company continues to design and produce in the area.