8 Facts About Baccarat Crystal That May Surprise You
Baccarat crystal is known for its luxury and craftsmanship, but there's a lot more to it than just being expensive glassware. Here are 8 fascinating and lesser-known facts that many people might find intriguing and surprising:
1. It Was Originally a Saltworks
Baccarat started in 1764 as a saltworks in the French village of Baccarat, in the department of Meurthe-et-Moselle. It wasn’t until 1816, after receiving permission from King Louis XV, that it officially operated under the Baccarat branding.
An aerial view of Baccarat's crystal factory as depicted through a painting from 1828 (left).
2. It Takes 15 Years to Become a Master Artisan
To become a Baccarat Meilleur Ouvrier de France (Best Artisan of France) (MOF), crystal workers often spend over 15 years mastering their craft. Many of the artisans come from families who have worked for Baccarat for generations. The title, created in 1924, celebrates and preserves French heritage, know-how, and excellence, with recipients becoming symbols of elite skill and perfection in their field.
3. The Iconic Baccarat Red Crystal is Made of Real Gold
The iconic red hue seen in some works or the logo/seal that appears on some pieces is not just decorative—it's made from 24-karat gold. It's usually mixed into the glass during production, making it colourfast and fadeproof.
The iconic Baccarat red can be seen in the Eye Vase, which imbues the red on the inner surface whilst keeping the outer edges clear - a testament to Baccarat's artisans' finesse and skill during the production process.
4. Used by Royalty and Celebrities
Baccarat has been the official crystal maker for multiple royal houses, including Louis XVIII, Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, and the Japanese imperial family. More recently, it’s been favored by celebrities like Lenny Kravitz, Drake & Taylor Swift.
The Zenith Chandelier adorning the dining room of Drake's mansion is known for signature octogonal red crystal nestled discreetly whilst maximising the luminence of the entire display (Credits: @ad_magazine, @matthieusalvaing)
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5. Baccarat Makes More Than Glassware
Beyond glasses, they make chandeliers, perfume bottles, vases, jewelry, figurines, and even and furniture. Some of their perfume bottles (e.g., for Guerlain or Dior) are now rare collector’s items.
The Baccarat Hotel in NYC is luxuriously fitted with Baccarat's extensive catalogue, from barware and vases, to lighting fixtures and other homeware items.
6. The Crystal is Denser Than Regular Glass
Most Baccarat crystal contains about 31% lead, making it much heavier, clearer, and more refractive than regular glass. This allows for a thinner profile and maximum clarity when appreciating the finest of drinks with the glassware. There is also a resounding "ping" when gently tapped.
It also allows for the most intricate and complex of designs especially with their limited edition pieces and couture pieces.
The Zodiaque Dragon 2024 XL Limited Edition is a showstopper with fine details especially around the head section. It is made only in a limited quantity of 50 numbered units worldwide.
7. Each Piece is Still Made by Hand
Despite its global reputation, Baccarat does not mass-produce its pieces in the modern sense. Every item—be it a glass or a chandelier—goes through dozens of hands, from the blower to the cutter, polisher, engraver, and inspector. An average of 60% of items do not make it through the strictest quality checks and are instead recycled as raw material to be reused.
8. The Harcourt Glass Has Been in Production for Almost 200 Years
The legendary Harcourt glass, introduced in 1841, is still made today and is one of Baccarat’s most iconic shapes. It’s been used in state banquets, films, and presidential palaces.
The Harcourt Glass carries almost 2 centuries of heritage and glamour, yet still remains a classy addition to anyone's glassware collection.
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