The Pride of Waterford - Waterford Crystal

One thing which stands out on a visit to Waterford, is the pride of the people in the place. Those working for Waterford Crystal are proud of their product and of the fact that their crystal heritage has now returned from the brink of extinction.

The business was originally founded in 1793 by George and William Penrose and very soon it became well-known worldwide. Today, despite financial hardship and closure, it employs roughly 1,000 people.

All Waterford crystal products are made at the factory in Waterford itself, where there is, of course, a visitor center and a gift shop. The factory is well worth a visit, as it allows you to see how the crystal is created and watch the craftsmen at work. The Waterford Crystal factory is one of Ireland's most popular tourist attractions; many thousands of people visit it each year to take the one hour tour.

If you were unaware of the history of this product you would be surprised to find that the souvenirs of Waterford are almost all made of glass, but for those who recognize the quality of the crystal, something made from and bought in Waterford is a real treat.

Because for hundreds of years, the Irish have been artists in glass, there is a great tradition of craftsmanship in the country. The crystal is strong and durable and it pings when you tap it; it also has a distinctive silvery white shine and sparkle.

Traditionally, Waterford-produced decanters and glasses are fantastic decorative pieces. They have a fabulous reputation, among collectors and amateurs alike, for quality and design.

I have been deeply impressed with the Waterford collection of Christmas tree ornaments. They epitomize the sparkle of Christmas and they will make wonderful family heirlooms in years to come. They are the only company I know with so many different ranges of ornaments. You can buy bells, snowflakes, trains and so many different designs. It was hard to choose which ones I preferred, as I have only just decided to start collecting them. I think I will have a variety, some from each range.

They all come with the year label attached and so make a great Christmas gift too, for the person who has everything. No one could doubt your taste and style, if you give these as gifts or hang them on your tree.

For those of us who really appreciate articles of such beauty, it is a wonderful experience finding out the range and quality of what is available.

Some of us also get as much pleasure from researching and anticipating these special purchases as we do out of owning them. Why not find out what all this enthusiasm for Waterford christmas ornaments is all about?

To find out more about this special waterford crystal go to
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