Glass making in Ireland has a rich, enduring history reaching so far back in time that accurate records do not reach that far. Archaeological research has shown that glass was highly regarded in early times. Exciting medieval documents show that glass making in Ireland extends back into at least the mid-13th century A.D.
Historic Waterford Crystal Factory: The Penrose Brothers Put Waterford, Ireland on the Map
Waterford Crystal has its origin in this tradition, no doubt, but its place on the map began in 1783 when brothers George and William Penrose founded a crystal manufacturing business in Waterford, Ireland, a thriving port city at the time. The Penrose brothers became Waterford's leading exporter. With 50-70 employees, led by John Hill, a Quaker from Stourbridge in England, Waterford's first factories produced crystal with a "purity of color unmatched in Ireland or England." Although this initial company failed after almost 100 years because of excessive taxation and lack of capital, its reputation survived and made its way into subsequent centuries
Waterford Crystal History: Artisans Continue Elegant Glass Design Following World War II
In 1947, just after World War II, a small glass factory set up shop just a scant mile or two from the original Waterford glass factory. Just as did its predecessor, Waterford Crystal prides itself upon purity of color, inspirational design and the pursuit of the highest quality levels possible in glass manufacturing. The company used traditional cutting patterns of the original artisans of Waterford as the basis for evolving crystal patterns and designs.
Waterford Crystal History Figures Prominently In Crystal Stemware Designs
Waterford Crystal pattern names offer a glimpse into a glassmaking company steeped in history, tradition and the search for perfection in crystal art design. Araglin, Kelsey, Charlemont, Clarendon, Cardiffe, Lismore, Lucerne, Westhampton: These crystal stemware patterns evoke associates in people the world over who associate historic places and times with a rich and glorious culture. Family members pass down Waterford Crystal heirlooms from generation to generation. New owners of Waterford experience pride in family heritage and comfort in knowing that Waterford stemware patterns are accessible and never truly discontinued. Skilled craftsmen refer to vintage patterns and recreate even the most intricate of heritage crystal designs.
Waterford Crystal History: Waterford Brand Carries Quality Design Into Other Product Lines
Waterford has extended its brand beyond its core crystal lines. In addition to Waterford Crystal Lamps, Its brand includes Waterford China, Waterford Table and Bed Linens, Waterford Stainless Flatware and Silver Gifts, Waterford Writing Instruments, Waterford Holiday Heirlooms and Waterford Crystal Jewelry.
Waterford, according to its website, remains the leading brand of premium crystal. Its products are still manufactured by hand to the highest standards in design and manufacturing.
People the world over regard Waterford Crystal as the best in selection of personal collecting and gift purchases.
Sources:
- Waterford Crystal: Worthy of the Moment for Over Two Centuries. Waterford Wedgwood USA, Inc., 2004.
- Waterford Crystal: "The History of Waterford Crystal." (accessed August 2010)
Other Articles About Waterford Crystal:
- Caring for Waterford Crystal–Cleaning Waterford Crystal Stemware
- Caring for Waterford Crystal Lamps--Cleaning Waterford Lamps
Debra Winstead - Debra Winstead combines over three decades of teaching experience with a love of learning new things. Writing online is currently a new ...
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