Waterford crystal forms the triangular panels added to New York City's Times Square Ball for the 2008 design.
Waterford Crystal, an Irish glassmaker, has supplied crystal panels for Times Square's ceremonial ball since 2000. The 2008 ball introduced a larger design for the centennial of the ball drop, using thousands of crystal triangles arranged over a geodesic sphere. The panels were cut with patterns intended to reflect and scatter the ball's illumination.
The 2008 ball measured 12 feet in diameter and weighed nearly six tons. It was designed to remain in place year-round, unlike earlier versions that were installed only for the New Year's celebration. Later designs retained Waterford crystal and incorporated annual themes through new panel patterns.
The ball's lighting system has also changed over time. Modern versions use LED technology, allowing millions of color combinations and coordinated animations. The crystal is therefore part of the ball's optical appearance, while the lighting supplies much of its changing color.