Waterford Crystal Gift Shop

Waterford Crystal designs, manufactures and markets an extensive range of crystal stemware, barware and giftware for distribution throughout the world. In recent years, Waterford has built upon its reputation as a leading source of prestigious tabletop and gift products by expanding into several new businesses.

Crystal production in Waterford began in 1783 when two brothers, George and William Penrose, founded their crystal factory employing 70 people. In a short time they became the city's principle exporters and succeeded in producing crystal with a purity of colour unmatched in Ireland or England. Merchant ships sailed regularly from the port of Waterford with cargoes of crystal bound for Spain, France, the West Indies, New York, New England and Newfoundland.

But less than 100 years later the initial company failed due to lack of capital and excessive taxation. But in what seems a remarkably short time, Waterford Crystal acquired an unequalled reputation that has transcended the intervening centuries.

Another century passed before the enterprise was revived. In 1947, while Europe was still in ruins after the second World War, a small glass factory was set up in Waterford just a few miles from the site of the original glass factory.

The Waterford Crystal factory followed the same design inspiration and to the same pursuit of highest quality levels possible.

The traditional cutting patterns made famous by the artisans of Waterford became the design basis for the growing product range of the new company.

The brilliance and sparkle of today's Waterford Crystal is emphasised by these designs and further enhanced by the light refracting properties made possible by the unique formula used in blending Waterford's raw materials.

In addition, Waterford has worked with world famous Wine Maker Robert Mondavi, to create a range of varietal specific glassware for the wine lover to bring out the flavour of different grapes. 

Nanaimo Mall - Waterford Crystal Gift Shop Online