Waterford Crystal is named after the city of Waterford, Ireland. In January 2009 its Waterford base was closed down due to the bankruptcy of the Wedgwood Group. After several difficulties and takeovers, it re-emerged later that year. In June 2010, Waterford Crystal relocated almost back to its original roots, on The Mall in Waterford City. A unique highlight of a visit is the factory tour which gives an up close insight into the centuries old tradition of Waterford Crystal making. Factories are not the prettiest places for images but here you can feel the heat of the furnace and marvel at the skills of craftsmen as in this case where they transform glowing balls of molten crystal into elegant shapes.