Caithness paperweights have a reputation for being the finest in the world and are highly collectable. The first Caithness paperweights were produced in 1969 in the North of Scotland using the traditional methods of millefiori and lampwork to create abstract shapes and bubbles. Inspired by the colours of the Scottish landscape, such as the purple of heather, and produced in a range of sizes, each unique paperweight is now individually handcrafted in Crieff, Perth.
Tilt or turn the paperweight upside down to observe any manufacturer's markings on the base.
Check the base of the paperweight for the words "Caithness Scotland." All Caithness Glass first-quality paperweights are etched on the base with this marking and the name of the piece. Limited-edition runs feature a code number and size also hand-etched on the base. Unlimited edition paperweights do not carry an edition number, but they do carry a hand-etched production code made up of a letter followed by a number, for example, E147.
Look for the code "CIIG." Some unlimited-edition paperweights do not meet the strict quality levels required of a first quality Caithness paperweight and are sold as second-quality paperweights through the Caithness Glass Visitor Centre and factory outlets. These paperweights are marked with this code on the base.