Which material is most associated with the modern Times Square Ball's decorative panels?

Waterford Crystal is the material most associated with the decorative panels of the modern Times Square Ball.

Waterford Crystal, an Irish crystal manufacturer, began contributing panels to the New Year’s Eve ball in 2000. The partnership helped turn the ball into a detailed, reflective object rather than merely an illuminated sphere. Different annual patterns have been created for the panels, often linked to themes such as hope, peace, or renewal.

The ball’s structure has changed substantially since the 1907 original. Modern versions use a geodesic framework, crystal triangles, and computer-controlled lighting capable of displaying many colors and patterns. The current design is much larger and heavier than the first ball.

Waterford Crystal is sometimes confused with the entire ball, but the crystal forms the outer decorative panels rather than being a solid crystal sphere. The ball is a technological structure combining metal, lighting, and crystal components.