Waterford Crystal pieces are valuable because they contain very intricate design elements, and the process to create them is both complex and labor intensive. The larger the piece, the more detail it includes, and the more expensive it is purchase.
What is so special about Waterford crystal?
Waterford Crystal is one of the only places in the world that is highly successful with achieving a full 33% lead content in their Irish crystal. Adding lead to glass makes glass softer and more pliable. This pliability is what allows Waterford Crystal to carve such intricate, highly acclaimed designs into their glass.
How much are Waterford crystals worth?
As with just about everything we discuss in our “Whats It Worth?” column, the value of Waterford Crystal stemware are different depending on where you buy! Online and in-person retail for a new Waterford lead crystal Lismore wine glass is about $80‐$90 per stem.
Is Waterford Marquis real 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.