How to Shop for Waterford Crystal

Waterford Crystal, one of the most popular brands of crystal stemware in the world, was established in 1783. The Irish glass-maker, now owned by the Wedgewood group, produces a variety of stemware, in patterns named for Irish women, as well as giftware, serving pieces and even chandeliers.

Instructions

1. Buy direct. The Waterford website offers the company's full range of products for purchase. You can search by pattern, by collection or by category. You can even create a wish list, so that your friends and family will know what to buy you for presents. The Waterford website is also a good place to research patterns and prices before you shop elsewhere.

2. Shop the department stores. If you need a quick gift item or if you'd like to see the stemware in person, visit a "better" department store, such as Macy's or Marshall Fields. Although the selection will be more limited than on the Waterford website, you can view the patterns, and the store can order any piece they don't have in stock.

3. Check with replacement retailers. Most replacement china and crystal retailers, such as replacements.com, also deal in used pieces of current patterns. Occasionally, you can get a good price on a "like new" piece here.

4. Bid on eBay. eBay can be chancy when dealing with crystal, but "deals" can still be found on the popular auction site. Be sure to read about the condition of the piece before you bid and avoid anything that has "flaws."

5. Plan a trip to Ireland. If you need an excuse to "get away," tell your spouse that you'll save on that Waterford Crystal that you've always wanted by making the trip. Waterford, located in the town of the same name in southeast Ireland, welcomes visitors to their facility. You can view glassware being made, browse through the gift shop (they'll ship your purchases home for you for a small fee) and even dine in the center's elegant restaurant.