Great find on that vase. They don't show up that often.
GibH, I pass on unmarked crystal stemware regularly and don't give it a second thought. However if you take a little time to memorize some of the more common waterford patterns. (a cross cut, that forms squares or diamonds) That will probably be the most common item you come across. Mikasa is pretty recognizable once you get your hands on a few pieces. But it goes for a moderate amount. Baccarat I can never recognize. Actually it often looks cheap to me so I find it hard to recognize.
Also sometimes the mark is in a weird place like the top side of the foot or the side of the bottom of the foot. Or very faint.
Awesome! I found a Lalique perfume bottle yesterday for a few dollar. Needs a good cleaning with a tooth brush. Signed with no chips. I'm debating listing it on eBay