How to Say "Crystal" in French

cristal

/kʁis.tal/masculine

The French word for the mineral crystal is cristal.

cristal is a masculine noun.

Meaning: mineral (noun)

Which one should you use?

While cristal is the noun for the mineral, use the adjective cristallin to describe things that are crystalline or crystal-like.

/kʁis.tal/ (2 syllables)

English speakers often mistakenly add a 'y' to the French spelling, but the French word is spelled with an 'i'.

In France, cristal often refers specifically to high-lead glass used for luxury tableware rather than the mineral. When referring to the geological structure of a rock, a scientist might use the term cristal but a layperson usually thinks of a champagne flute.
The phrase une eau cristalline describes water that is so clear it looks like cristal, and is a common poetic trope in French literature to signify purity.
In a metaphorical sense, un cristal can refer to a fragile emotional state or a delicate relationship that could shatter easily.

Je n'ai pas de boule de cristal.
I don't have a crystal ball.
Tatoeba #11776813 by lbdx, translation #6472126 by Hybrid
L'eau cristalline avait une température très agréable.
The crystal clear water had a very pleasant temperature.
Tatoeba #5716615 by Scorpionvenin14, translation #5716314 by zumley
Un lustre en cristal était suspendu au-dessus de la table.
A crystal chandelier was hanging over the table.
Tatoeba #11715638 by lbdx, translation #63525 by CK
Marie a reçu un magnifique verre de cristal pour son anniversaire.
Marie received a beautiful crystal glass for her birthday.
8 more sentences on Tatoeba

Lucas and Chloé are looking at a geological collection.

Sources

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