Waterfords most popular cut-crystal pattern, Lismore, was created by the companys designer Miroslav Havel in 1952. It was inspired by the spectacular Lismore Castle in Waterford County, Ireland, a magnificently turreted structure with intricate leaded windows.

What are the different patterns of Waterford crystal?

Waterford Crystal PatternsLismore. Craftsmanship: a fusion of inspiration from the landscape and skills passed down generation to generation. Lismore Diamond. The Lismore Diamond collection is a strikingly modern reinterpretation of our Lismore Classic design. Wild Atlantic Way. Dungarvan. Colleen. Irish Lace. Seahorse.

How can I identify my Waterford crystal pattern?

The first way to tell an authentic piece of Waterford is to look for the Waterford acid mark. Using a magnifying glass, or holding the crystal up to the light, search for the stamp. It will most likely appear on the stems base, but can also be found in the grooves as well.

What is the Waterford crystal Mark?

The Waterford Stamp Since 1950, each piece of Waterford crystal has been stamped with the company logo. Resembling a stencil pattern, the Waterford name is slightly opaque. On a wine glass, its found on the underside of the base. If the piece is older, a magnifying glass may be necessary to find the stamp due to wear.

What is the difference between Waterford crystal and Waterford Marquis crystal?

Marquis looks like Waterfords fine crystal, but it differs in that it is not lead crystal -- it is crystalline, a quality, non-leaded glass. Today, the Marquis collection is front-and-center in most department stores, while traditional Waterford Crystal still remains a top seller, but displayed behind glass.

Is any Waterford Crystal still made in Ireland?

Most Waterford crystal is now produced outside Ireland in countries such as Slovenia, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Germany. Waterford produces many patterns of lead crystal stemware, including lines such as Adare, Alana, Colleen, Kincora, Lismore, Maeve, Tramore, and many others.

Does Waterford crystal have lead in it?

The short answer is the make-up of the crystal with lead oxide content. Take for example Waterford Crystal which has a lead oxide content of over 33%, whereas full lead crystal is classed in excess of 24% lead oxide content. Full lead crystal is made up of Silica (sand) Potash (ashes) and usually Red Lead (lead oxide).

Are Waterford glasses worth it?

Waterford reopened in 1947, producing most of the fine Waterford crystal available today after that date. Waterford crystal values fluctuate slightly on the world market depending on the economic conditions, but it is a desirable collectible of beautiful quality and style.