Vintage Stuart Crystal decanters

Stuart Crystal was a prestigious English glassware manufacturer with a history dating back to the 19th century. The company was established in 1827 by Frederick Stuart, a skilled glassmaker, in the city of Stourbridge, England. Stuart Crystal gained a reputation for producing high-quality, handcrafted crystal glassware. During its early years, Stuart Crystal focused on manufacturing a wide range of glass products, including tableware, stemware, decanters, and decorative pieces. The company's exquisite craftsmanship, attention to detail, and use of high-quality materials set them apart from other glassware manufacturers of the time.

In the early 20th century, Stuart Crystal more... became a purveyor to the British royal family. The company received the Royal Warrant, a mark of recognition for supplying goods or services to the royal household, which further enhanced its reputation and prestige.

Stuart Crystal continued to evolve and adapt to changing tastes and market demands throughout the 20th century. The company embraced new design trends while maintaining its commitment to traditional craftsmanship. They introduced innovative techniques, such as cut, engraved, and etched designs, which added depth and intricate patterns to their crystal creations.

One of Stuart Crystal's notable achievements was the development of a new glass formula known as "Stuart Glass." This formula, introduced in the 1930s, enhanced the brilliance, clarity, and strength of their glassware, further solidifying their reputation for exceptional quality.

In 1995, Stuart Crystal became part of the Waterford Wedgwood group, a luxury brand specializing in crystal, porcelain, and ceramics. In recent years, the Waterford Wedgwood group faced financial difficulties and went through several ownership changes and restructurings. The company continued to produce crystal under the Stuart Crystal brand until 2001, when it was discontinued. less...

The earliest decanters date from the late seventeenth century and were made from blown moulded glass.

They were used to serve wine at a time when there was a move towards less formal dining procedures and the reduced reliance on servants and waiters.

The 1745 Excise Tax caused manufacturers to make decanters lighter in weight. The tax benefited the industry in Ireland where it did not apply. When the tax was repealed in 1845, a heavier gauge was reverted to.

In the second half of the eighteenth century blue, green and amethyst coloured decanters were made.

Decanters often sat on more... silver bottle coasters with baize bases (some even on castors) and could be 'pushed' around the dining table without making scratches or requiring serving staff. less...