Ireland is especially known for its high-quality crystal. The Celts first incorporated crystal into their jewelry, but it wasn?t until later that it was used to make other items, such as drinking glasses and vases. They developed a ?mouth-blowing? technique to form the crystal into these more sophisticated shapes. Over time, Ireland became known for manufacturing beautiful, high quality crystal products and by the time Galway Crystal opened its doors, Ireland had already put itself on the map as being one of the best places in the world to buy crystal. Here?s more information about Galway Crystal:

How Galway Crystal Got Started

Although crystal had been made in Ireland in some fashion since Celtic times, Galway Crystal didn?t open its doors until 1967. The company first got started when a group of crystal makers in the Galway region of Ireland got together and decided to combine their efforts. Their first production facility was located on Nun?s Island. The company expanded and in 1977, they moved their production facility to where it is today on Dublin Road in Galway City.

Known For Traditional Irish Crystal

There are those who believe that a company shouldn?t call itself a maker of traditional Irish crystal unless they meet certain requirements. They explain that real Irish crystal uses traditional glass-blowing techniques and is made by native Irish craftspeople. Galway Crystal meets these requirements, and it is how the company has developed its stellar reputation. The company?s native craftspeople use traditional techniques to make their traditional Irish crystal products.

Galway Crystal?s Reputation

Aside from building a reputation on the fact that they produce high-quality and traditional Irish crystal products, they?ve also been known to commission pieces for the world?s elites, such as royals, presidents, and celebrities. Their commissioned crystal pieces can be found in the Vatican, the White House, and at the home of the President of Ireland. However, it doesn?t matter if they?re creating a piece for celebrities or not ? they always maintain the same strict quality standards. As mentioned above, every piece the company creates adheres to the same quality standards. Whether buying a set of drinking glasses or a beautiful vase to decorate your home, you can be assured that what you buy will be produced by native Irish master craftspeople and that the pieces reflect the true beauty and artistry of the country. View our Galway Crystal collection here.