Cristal is a beautiful and unique name of Spanish origin that means "crystal". It's derived from the mineral crystal, which is known for its clarity, brilliance, and durability. The name Cristal has been used since the late 20th century but has gained popularity in recent years.
The use of Cristal as a given name might have started with the popular Spanish-American singer, Crystal Gayle. Born Brenda Gail Webb in 1951, she adopted her stage name "Crystal Gayle" to honor her older sister, Loretta Lynn, who had already achieved success in country music under her birth name.
Cristal is not a traditional name that has been passed down through generations like some others. Instead, it's a modern and distinctive choice for parents who want something unique for their child. It's also a unisex name, suitable for both boys and girls, adding to its versatility.
In terms of popularity, Cristal peaked in the United States around the year 2000 but has since declined somewhat. However, it remains a favorite among those looking for a distinct and meaningful name for their child.
Overall, Cristal is a captivating choice with a beautiful meaning, Spanish heritage, and a unique history that sets it apart from many other names.
The statistics provided illustrate the trends of the name Cristal among newborns in the United States over several decades. The name's popularity experienced significant fluctuations throughout this period.
In the early years (1947 to 1960), Cristal was a relatively uncommon name, with fewer than ten births per year on average. However, from the late 1960s onwards, there was a notable increase in its usage among parents choosing names for their newborn daughters.
The peak popularity of the name Cristal occurred between 1982 and 1985, during which time it averaged over 200 births per year. This period marks a substantial surge in the name's popularity compared to previous decades. In fact, the highest recorded number of births with the name Cristal was in 1986, with an impressive total of 593 newborn girls named Cristal that year.
However, the popularity of the name Cristal began to decline thereafter. By the late 1990s and early 2000s, it had fallen below 500 births per year on average. This downward trend continued into the new millennium, with fewer than 100 births with the name Cristal recorded annually from 2010 onwards.
In recent years, the name Cristal has become increasingly rare in the United States. Between 2016 and 2023, there were less than 51 births per year on average with the name Cristal. The lowest point was reached in 2021 and 2022, with only 45 births each year.
Overall, while the name Cristal experienced periods of popularity, particularly during the 1980s and early 1990s, its usage has since declined significantly. Nevertheless, it remains a unique and distinct name choice for parents looking to give their daughter an uncommon moniker.