Mark Badash

Gifts & Decorative Accessories: Tell us what anniversary this is for Badash.

Mark Badash: I guess it's the 60th. My father started Javit Crystal in 1944, sold it in 1979, then started up again in 1984, as soon as his five-year [non-compete] clause expired. The new company's name is Jack Badash Inc., doing business as Badash Crystal.

Gifts & Dec: What happened to Javit Crystal?

MB: My father sold it to Towle Silversmiths in '79. They wanted to get into the glass industry, but they didn't know how to run that business, so they weren't successful. My father had a mild stroke about six years ago, so he's not really involved with Badash Crystal anymore, except as a consultant.

Gifts & Dec: When did you join the company?

MB: I joined in 1987, after practicing law for three years. That wasn't for me. Too adversarial. This industry is about developing relationships.

Gifts & Dec: What makes Badash Crystal unique?

MB: We provide innovative and elegant products at fair prices. Our products are made in the same factories that produce the largest brand names in the industry. But because we don't spend a fortune on advertising, we can offer it at a fraction of the price.

Gifts & Dec: Where are these factories located?

MB: We phased out domestic production by 1990. We had one lady in her 80s cutting glass for us in West Virginia. Finally, she said, "I can't do it any more, my hands are getting shaky." None of the younger generation wanted to pick up the trade, so it's all done overseas now. My father first began importing from Russia. When I joined the company, we started going to Czechoslovakia, as well as Poland and Italy. About five or six years ago, I started going to China as well. From there, we've been able to diversify at moderate price points ($5 to $25), mostly in crafted or sheet glass instead of blown. We've also expanded the $50 to $200 range of our European cut crystal, including oversized pieces.

Gifts & Dec: What categories are growing for you?

MB: The big growth area has been the furniture market for the large pieces. In the last couple of years we've also gotten into engraveables, corporate premiums, and awards.

Gifts & Dec: What's the next big thing in crystal?

MB: A big trend has been to colored glass. Amber, violet, and olive green are the hot colors, along with cobalt.

Gifts & Dec: What is the difference between lead crystal and lead-free crystal?

MB: Lead softens the glass, making it easier to cut, and lends some brilliance. We do both. All of our uncut, clear glass is lead-free.

Gifts & Dec: Is lead crystal safe?

MB: Studies show you shouldn't store alcohol in lead crystal decanters, but decanters are still probably the biggest selling category. Companies like Waterford and Lenox are coming out with clear glass products for the first time, but I also see a trend among young brides in the southern and western parts of the country going back to traditional cut crystal.

Gifts & Dec: Do you see the next generation joining your company?

MB: My children have all expressed interest, but they're young: 8, 10, and 12. It's too early to tell, but they can all handle crystal without breaking it.