Crystal Highball Glass

This highball glass is a striking example of contemporary lead crystal stemware, characterized by its tall, cylindrical form and substantial weight. The glass features deep, vertical wedge cuts that create a series of sharp, tapering facets around the perimeter, which catch and refract light with exceptional brilliance. These elongated facets extend from the base upwards, creating a geometric, architectural aesthetic. The base is heavily weighted to provide stability and a premium hand-feel, typical of high-quality crystal manufacturers such as Marquis by Waterford or Mikasa. The rim is finely finished and smooth, indicating superior craftsmanship. The crystal clear material exhibits high transparency with no visible bubbling or clouding, suggesting a high lead content. Condition appears excellent with no visible chips, cracks, or surface scratching, maintaining its original polished sheen. The design style suggests a late 20th-century to early 21st-century manufacturing date, fitting well within modern formal dining or luxury barware collections. The overall quality is indicative of machine-cut or hand-finished production methods designed for both durability and aesthetic impact.

Based on my visual examination of this contemporary lead crystal highball glass, I find it to be a high-quality production piece, likely from a prominent maker like Marquis by Waterford. The item is in excellent condition, displaying high transparency and crisp wedge cuts that indicate quality craftsmanship without the visible manufacturing defects found in lower-grade glass. The weighted base and fire-polished rim are consistent with premium barware intended for the luxury retail market. The current market for contemporary crystal remains stable, though largely driven by brand recognition and utility. Highball glasses of this style are frequently sold in sets; as a single replacement piece, the value is slightly elevated, though still limited by its modern mass-production origin. The geometric facet design aligns with late 20th-century trends that remain popular in modern minimalist decor. Limitations of this appraisal include the inability to verify the chime (acoustic resonance) or weight, which would confirm lead content over crystalline. I cannot definitively verify the manufacturer's mark, such as an acid-etched signature, which is often located on the base and invisible in photographs. Full authentication would require a physical inspection to check for micro-scratches indicative of age or use, and documentation such as the original box or a retail receipt to confirm the specific pattern and maker.