The name Kristal is a variant spelling of the name Crystal, which has its origins in the Ancient Greek language. The word "krustallos" meant ice or crystal, referring to the transparent mineral. The name likely arose as a metaphorical reference to clarity, purity, or beauty.

In its earliest recorded use, the name Crystal appeared in medieval English records dating back to the 12th century. It was sometimes rendered as Cristal or Cristall, reflecting the linguistic shift from the Greek root. The name gained popularity during the Renaissance period, particularly in England and France.

One of the earliest notable bearers of the name was Crystal de Verdun, a 13th-century noblewoman from Normandy, France. In literature, the name appeared in the 14th-century English poem "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight," where a character named Crystal is mentioned.

During the 16th century, the name was associated with the rise of Protestantism and the translation of the Bible into vernacular languages. The name Crystal was sometimes used as a symbolic reference to the clarity and transparency desired in religious teachings.

In the 17th century, Crystal Towneley (1617-1672) was a notable English author and philosopher. She wrote works on religious and political topics, challenging the societal norms of her time.

The 18th century brought Crystal Eastlake (1770-1845), an English artist and writer known for her expertise in interior design and decorative arts. Her influential book "Hints on Household Taste" helped shape Victorian-era aesthetics.

In the 19th century, Crystal Ambruster (1853-1924) was a German-American artist and educator. She founded the Crystal Ambruster School of Art in Chicago, which played a significant role in promoting arts education for women.

Another notable figure was Crystal Eastman (1881-1928), an American lawyer, activist, and leader in the women's suffrage movement. She co-founded the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and advocated for workers' rights and gender equality.