Jeannette Specialty Glass

   
   

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Here’s the thing. How on earth is a made in the U.S. glass factory not merely surviving but thriving in modern day America? Hundreds of once established, once prosperous, businesses ran out of pink slips shuttering their doors. What has JSG done differently to enable a century – and counting – of production, production that’s still 100% manufactured in these united states? The Sarniaks say it’s their skillful ability to morph production long before the death knell tolls. Consider their diverse production over the years: in addition to the Walk/Don’t Walk glass and streetlight bowls, these folks produce artglass sinks for many major Vegas hotels (Ringo Starr and Celine Dion are among their fans). They made the glass for the majestic dancing fountains at the Bellagio Hotel. They continue to produce outdoor lighting, mirrors, stepping stones, and tiles. And now they’re intent on duplicating those successes in their table and gift assortments. “Our mission is simple,” advises Kathleen Sarniak. “We provide the highest quality glass home décor products. We have a superior glass that’s comparable to no other and every day we come out with new designs and ideas.”

Sarniak credits her husband – she endearingly calls him a “glass genius” – who has been extremely prescient at picking the right product for the right time. “Ted’s always thinking,” Sarniak proudly purports. “He’s amazing at engineering glass that can withstand extreme temperature changes and still look beautiful.” Necessity, no doubt, has been the mother of invention for the Sarniaks. Every time cheaper imports have bustled in on their territory, they’ve figured out ways to jump ship, change course, and establish new and improved collections. “We’re always thinking of ways to diversify,” suggests Kathleen. “Ted’s always having these AHA moments.”

The latest flash of eureka happened in 2001 on that ocean-side vacation which inspired the development of that borsilicate sink, as stunning as it’s strong. “New technologies and innovations have allowed glass to become a designer’s dream,” agrees Kathleen. The roll-out included nine fashion colors (there are now 17 hues available), hits from the start but really catapulted after fawning coverage on HGTV. That exposure, Kathleen informs, “legitimized us completely.” Sinks – $400 to $2,000 – provided the perfect perch into tableware.

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