Scottish Antiques-Collectables. (Glass) 3

Edinburgh Crystal was a cut glass manufactured in Scotland between 1867 and 2006, and was also the name of the manufacturing company. In addition to drinking glasses, Edinburgh Crystal made decanters, bowls, baskets, and bells, in several ranges.

The Edinburgh Crystal company went into administration in 2006 and following its subsequent acquisition by Waterford Wedgwood, it became solely a brand name. After Waterford Wedgwood was acquired from administration by KPS Capital Partners, in January 2009, the brand was discontinued.

There were many ranges of glassware but at the collectable end there were just four in the former ‘Connoisseur Collection’.

‘Star of Edinburgh’ – decorated with a star-burst pattern.
‘Thistle’ – the tops of these pieces are shaped in accordance with the thistle theme while the body is stippled.
‘King James’ – glassware in this range is notable for the long stems and neck, and is loosely based on that in use in the 17th century.
‘Lochnagar’ – Lochnagar was introduced during the reign of Queen Victoria and can be identified by its swirling pattern.
Collaboration by design
For several years students from Wolverhampton University and the Edinburgh College of Art were employed, for periods of 12–15 months, to work in the design department. This provided the students with work experience while inputting new design ideas. The ‘Edge’ range came out of this collaboration.