Lead in stoneware and crystal — Harmful?

It is possible to get lead poisoning from dishes and crystal, it's much more likely to be exposed to this mineral through lead-based paint. Lead particles can be released into the air and inhaled in the following scenarios:

exposure on-the-job, which the CDC estimates causes 95 percent of lead poisoning cases among adults. At risk folks include painters, ironworkers, or other laborers, who repair or demolish steel bridges, railways, and storage tanks coated with durable lead-based paint. They may want to consider having their blood screened for lead.
living in homes built before 1978. About 80 percent of all homes in the U.S. may contain lead-based paint. Residents are exposed to lead when these homes are renovated or when the paint peels or chips.
Children are more susceptible to experience lead poisoning because their bodies absorb lead more easily, and their developing nervous systems are more quickly and permanently damaged by the effects of lead. Health officials estimate that between 5 - 10 percent of American children have a harmful amount of lead in their blood. African-American and Hispanic children, as well as those living in poverty, are significantly more likely to have dangerous lead exposure. Poor nutrition makes children more vulnerable to the effects of lead.