Waterford Crystal has designed the illuminated crystal panels used on New York City's Times Square Ball since 1999.
The Irish crystal manufacturer first contributed panels to the ball for the 2000 celebration, marking the arrival of the new millennium. The partnership continued, and Waterford designs became a recognizable part of the annual object displayed above Times Square.
The ball's appearance has evolved through several versions. The 2000 ball was larger than earlier models and featured thousands of crystal panels and lights. The present ball is a geodesic sphere about 12 feet in diameter, with Waterford Crystal triangles arranged over a metal frame and illuminated by LED technology.
The company often introduces new patterns or panels connected with themes such as peace, hope, or love. The crystal maker is sometimes confused with Swarovski because both are internationally known for decorative crystal, but Waterford is the company associated with the Times Square Ball tradition.