Waterford

Waterford

The satisfying “ping” sound of a Waterford glass at a dinner table offers an echo of luxury that has reverberated throughout homes for generations. How has Waterford earned its place as the premier household name in crystal tableware? The House of Waterford, which originated in the harbor town for which it was named, in Ireland in 1783, still uses the same rigorous molding, blowing, marking, cutting, sculpting, and engraving processes that have defined the designer for almost 250 years. Today, Master Craftsmen at Waterford are required to be apprentices for eight years. This education guarantees that Waterford crystal is made only by skilled hands. Inspection is also a pivotal step in the process. Any object that is deemed under-qualified is crushed down and re-melted. By focusing on the details and ensuring absolute precision, Waterford Crystal has come to be known as the best in crystal stemware, barware, vases, bowls, centerpieces, fine china, flatware, and more.

Waterford was under continuous operation by brothers George and William Penrose until 1853, when the factory was closed for almost 100 years. In 1947, the genius of the Penrose brothers was revived through rigorous study of their sketches and creations by a new leader in glassblowing, Kael Bacik. In 1952, Waterford’s Chief Designer, Miroslav Havel, created the historically-inspired Lismore crystal pattern that remains Waterford’s most popular worldwide. Lux Bond & Green is an authorized retailer of luxury Waterford crystal, and our collection is stocked with every China cabinet must-have: the Lismore pattern.

The legacy of Waterford lives on not just by keeping traditional manufacturing methods in practice but also by making innovative commitments that acknowledge the importance of sustainability today. For example, perhaps the designer’s most impactful and daring change to date is the decision to adjust the composition of their crystal formula. In 2024, barium oxide will replace lead oxide in the Waterford crystal cocktail. Barium oxide is a much more sustainable choice because it is 100% recyclable and consumes far less energy to manipulate during manufacturing. Luckily, the resulting new formula is just as clear, twice as strong, and has better heat resistance than the original.

Find a special Waterford wedding or anniversary gift, or new tableware for your next holiday engagement in Lux Bond & Green’s collection online or at our brick-and-mortar Connecticut and Massachusetts stores.