Originally nestled in the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, Caithness Glass has long been a name synonymous with craftsmanship, artistry, and tradition. Since its founding in 1961 in the far north of Scotland, this iconic brand has become known for its exquisite paperweights and art glass—each one a handcrafted celebration of Scottish spirit and creativity.
A Vision Rooted in the Highlands
Caithness Glass began with a simple but ambitious vision: to bring world-class glassmaking to the Highlands. Inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape—from windswept coastlines to dramatic skies—the first artisans at Caithness sought to create pieces that reflected the soul of Scotland.
The region’s remote location was no barrier to creativity. In fact, it became a source of inspiration. The vast skies and ever-changing northern light influenced the use of colour and form, giving Caithness Glass its signature ethereal quality. Early collections quickly gained attention for their innovation, with bold techniques and vibrant colours setting them apart from traditional European glassmakers.
The Art of Handcrafting
Every piece of Caithness Glass begins with fire, sand, and the hands of a skilled artisan. Hand-blown and hand-finished, our glass is not mass-produced—it’s made with patience, precision, and passion. Each paperweight is created using a range of complex techniques including lampworking, millefiori, and the use of delicate air bubbles and metallic inclusions.
From gathering molten glass to shaping, colouring, and polishing, the process requires years of training and an artist’s eye. No two pieces are ever exactly alike. That’s the beauty of handcrafted work: the slight variations are a hallmark of authenticity and care.
A Heritage of Innovation
Though best known for its paperweights, Caithness Glass has always pushed the boundaries of what art glass can be. From limited-edition collector’s items to commemorative designs that mark royal events, national celebrations, and heritage milestones, our collections tell stories as rich as Scotland’s own history.
Over the decades, Caithness has collaborated with notable designers and artists to keep its collections fresh, while never losing sight of its roots. Whether inspired by floral forms, the swirling depths of the ocean, or the landmarks of the world, every piece carries a hint of the Highlands within it.
Made in Scotland, Treasured Worldwide
Caithness Glass remains proudly Scottish. Though our workshops have moved from their original home in Wick to the creative hub of Crieff, the commitment to traditional craftsmanship remains unchanged. Every piece is still made in Scotland by skilled glassmakers who carry forward the legacy of the generations before them.
Today, Caithness Glass is collected and cherished all over the world. For many, our paperweights are more than just decorative objects—they are heirlooms, tokens of love, memories preserved in glass, and symbols of Scottish pride.
Discover the Collection
Whether you’re new to Caithness Glass or a lifelong collector, we invite you to explore our handcrafted collections—from the oceanic to the abstract, the floral to the patriotic. Every piece is a reminder that beauty is best when it's made by hand—and made in Scotland.