Heritage Irish Crystal

While starting his career as a glass maker with Waterford Crystal, Joe Williams quickly rose through the ranks into senior management. After 30 years and while employed as assistant general manager of the production plant in Kilbarry, Ireland, Williams decided to leave Waterford to pursue an independent career in the crystal industry.

His early days in self-employment saw him consulting, where he shared his expertise with several major companies in the industry. Within a short time, however, he established his own production unit, surrounded by family at his home in Ireland. His overall objective is to pursue excellence in the traditional manufacturing methods of mouth-blown and hand-cut crystal. His company quickly built an international reputation for excellent quality and design.

Early in 1996, Williams expanded and created the brand for which the company is known today — Heritage Irish Crystal. Created to give greater emphasis to crystal's Irish tradition and roots, Heritage Irish Crystal works exclusively in full lead crystal. Each piece is mouth-blown and hand-cut using traditional methods and contains more than 30% PbO (lead), creating a myriad of color superbly enhanced by unique cutting and finishing processes.

Today Heritage Irish Crystal is truly a family-run organization. The company is owned and managed by Joe Williams, Chairman & Chief Executive, and his family, incuding Brian Williams - Prodution Director; Sonia Williams - Sales/Marketing Director; and Joseph Williams, Jr. - Master Glass Maker.

Go to the Heritage Crystal website for more information on their crystal products.