Now Up For A Trade: Item T3

Standing at approximately 23 cm (9") high (or approximately 28 cm or 11" including display base), this magnificent full (33%) lead deep cut intricate Kinsale Crystal vase was shaped and finished over the course of at least three days.

Not for the good people at Kinsale Crystal the easy option, they cut crystal the old-fashioned way, the way they used to do it in the good old days before mass-production and the cost-saving measures that go with it invaded the landscape.

Alex at Kinsale Crystal summarised for us how the vase was made:

First, the glass is mouth-blown and moulded. This stage is outsourced, and the "blank form" is delivered to the Kinsale Crystal workshop.

Next, the pattern guidelines are marked on (with felt-tipped pen I believe).

Then the glass is cut (and the top scalloped).

And get this: the glass is deep cut with a 90 degree wheel, which Alex explained to me takes about five times longer than a typical 120 degree wheel used these days. And the result is way more sparkle, I can confirm (Alex showed me a Kinsale Crystal bowl alongside a "like-for-like" mass-produced bowl for comparison).

Finally, the vase is polished.

A commemorative plaque has been added to the base, courtesy of Ged (Medallion, Trophy & General Engraver) who works out of his home in Preston (Lancashire, UK!). Ged can be reached on 01772 731244.