Then the cutters take over the piece. Waterford Crystal is famous for its unique cutting patterns, each incised into the crystal by diamond-tipped wheels. Cutters work from memory on each piece, which requires an encyclopedic knowledge of hundreds of design motifs. In addition, a limited number of pieces require the special talents of an engraver who uses a copper wheel as his paintbrush, gently coaxing detailed images to life on the crystal. After each step of the process, Waterford's high standards demand that all pieces be examined by quality inspectors.
Every piece failing to pass inspection is smashed and fed again into the furnace.