We Know: All About Waterford Crystal

What is Waterford Crystal?

Waterford Crystal, or Penrose crystal is a premium quality, handcrafted crystal created by the Waterford Wedgewood Company in Waterford, Ireland. Waterford Crystal is renowned worldwide for its deep cuts and purity of design.

What distinguishes Waterford Crystal from other brands of crystal?

The craftsmanship of Waterford Crystal sets it apart from its competition. Each piece of Waterford Crystal is characterized by its purity, clarity, and durability. Waterford Crystal is mixed, blown, cut, and polished using the same tools that were in place from the 18th century. Silica sand, lead oxide, and potassium carbonate are mixed and melted into glass. Skilled artisans mold the glass into distinct shapes and send these pieces into an annealing oven. After the crystal is cooled, artisans carve brilliant diamond-like designs into the glass.

What is the history behind the Waterford trademark?

Brothers William and George Penrose started the Penrose Glass House in 1783. The company made high quality crystal pieces that served as gifts to royalty and the wealthy, and enjoyed a profitable export business as one of the premier crystal manufacturers in the world.

What are some of the more popular designs of Waterford Crystal?

Waterford Crystal patterns never truly expire since any out-of-stock patterns can be recreated from scratch. The more popular patterns that exist today are:

  • Lismore, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2006. Characterized by leaf patterns and wedge cuts.
  • Marquis, with its clean lines in contemporary or traditional cuts.
  • Crystal classic collection
  • Clarenden collection
  • Seahorse collection

Waterford also makes many non-crystal products, including table and bed linens, flatware, silver products, writing utensils, jewelry, and many collectibles.

Where can I find Waterford Crystal?

Waterford Crystal is sold in department stores such as Robinson-May, Macys, and Neiman Marcus. Independent crystal retailers also sell the more popular Waterford designs.



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