Bohemian glass, according to Yvonne Brunhammer and Jean-Luc Olivié, "hangs suspended between magic and science, illusion and rigor." Bohemia, which lies in the heart of Europe in the Czech Republic, possesses a rich glassmaking history covering 1000 years. Its mineral-rich mountains, rushing rivers and streams provided and still provide a perfect setting for this endeavor. In the beginning Bohemian glass was created as a substitute for rock crystal, hence the name crystal. Some say it is a philosopher's stone because it was born in an alchemist laboratory. During the sixteenth century, German alchemists created a richly colored ruby red glass. Many people at that time believed it possessed magical qualities. The Bohemians shortly after its conception began blowing this glass and are credited for distributing it throughout the world. Today, the mystic of Bohemian glass continues to fire the imagination of collectors. The Czechs not only carry on production of vases and stemware from past eras such as Rococo, Secession, and Art Deco, they also create modern day art glass and sculptures ranging from animals and other figurines to cleverly designed vases, bowls and plates. These contemporary collections may be viewed by clicking on the tabs of Beranek, Svoboda, dmh, Miracle Studios and Egermann. Many are signed, dated and/or have a certificate of authenticity. Now relax and enjoy the ageless beauty of Bohemian, Czech and Slovak glass by surfing our website. La Bohème is located in Connellsville, PA just one block from the Greater Allegheny Passage bike trail on W. Crawford Avenue and Second St. and minutes from Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob.