Everything You Need to Know About Lalique Crystal
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Lalique was founded by the legendary Parisian glassmaker and jeweller René Jules Lalique in 1888 and became known for producing masterpiece glass art, including perfume bottles, vases, and hood ornaments in the early twentieth century. Lalique was also responsible for the design and decoration of various interiors including the Orient Express railroad cars, the SS Paris, the SS Normandie, and various other buildings.
After René's passing, his son Marc Lalique transitioned the brand to focus on crystal, which is glass with lead added during the firing process. This allowed the creation of pieces with finer details, increased clarity, and a beautiful ringing tone when struck. Today, every Lalique piece is still made at their only factory, the Verrerie d'Alsace glassworks at Wingen-sur Moder, Alsace, in a region with a strong historical glassmaking tradition.
FormFluent is the exclusive distributor of Lalique in Australia. View the available collections here. Lalique Sydney Boutique coming soon to The Rocks, New South Wales.
DECORATIVE ITEMS
COSTUME JEWELLERY AND FINE JEWELLERY
INTERIOR DESIGN
ART
Lalique Crystal Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do I identify an authentic Lalique piece?
Authenticating a Lalique piece requires looking for the Lalique signature and production markings, examining the quality of the piece, studying the brands designs and patterns, checking the box and documentation, and consulting experts.
2. What is the difference between an "R. Lalique" signature and a "Lalique France" signature?
The R. Lalique signature was used when Rene Lalique was still alive. When his son Marc Lalique took over, the brand started using Lalique France instead.
3. Is my Lalique piece fake if it doesn't have an "R" in the signature?
Not necessarily. It depends on the production year of the piece.
4. Does Lalique always have a signature?
Yes, authenticate Lalique pieces always have a signature somewhere on the piece.
5. How can I tell if a Lalique signature has been forged or added later?
Earlier Lalique pieces have markings that are molded into the piece directly. From 1945, all signatures are either acid- or laser-etched onto subtle areas without any surface imperfections.
6. What are the common marks for Lalique after 1945?
After Marc Lalique took over the business in 1945, the brand started using Lalique France as the brand's signature marking.
7. Did Lalique ever use "Made in France" or "Paris" in its markings?
Never, these are common signs of forged pieces or replicas.
Read about The Heritage of Lalique: A Legacy of Elegance.
8. How do I identify a Lalique piece by the weight and 'ping' sound?
Crystal is more dense than regular glass and has a brighter 'ping' sound when tapped. However, weight alone isn't sufficient to authenticate a piece.
9. Does Lalique crystal glow under UV or blacklight?
Yes, Lalique crystal will glow a certain colour under UV light. This is due to the metallic content within the crystal that reacts to the light.
10. Are there mold seams on authentic Lalique crystal?
Generally no. Almost all pieces are hand-finished with Lalique signature finishes.
11. Why is "R. Lalique" worth so much more than modern Lalique?
Because pieces from that era were more limited in quantities, more difficult to find in good condition, and were created under the supervision of the founder Rene Lalique.
12. Does Lalique crystal hold its value over time?
The value of limited edition pieces tend to appreciate after production has stopped and thus are valued by collectors.
13. Who was René Lalique and why is he famous for both jewellery and glass?
Rene Lalique was a French jeweller who became famous for his Art Nouveau and Art Deco designs that took inspiration from the natural world. Later, he then experimented with glass art infused into his deisgns.
14. What is the difference between Lalique's Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles?
Art Nouveau is organic, flowing, and inspired by natural designs whereas Art Deco is more geometrical, modern and streamlined.
What are the Seven Lalique Icons: Unveiling the Stories Behind Crystal Masterpieces
15. What is 'Opalescent' glass in Lalique collecting?
It is a specific crystal colouration that Lalique makes in limited quantities that has an ethereal colour effect.
16. How much is a Lalique Bacchantes vase worth today?
It depends on the size, colour, and production version of the vase. Lalique Bacchantes Vase is still made today according to the same production quality controls since 1927.
17. What is the most expensive Lalique piece ever sold?
The most expensive Lalique creation ever sold was the Moineaux Chambranle Crante Doors from Villa Millbrook which auctioned for €2,024 million including buyer's premium in 2011 ($3,589 million, $5,029 million in 2025 dollars).
18. Was Lalique crystal used on the Orient Express?
Lalique Merles et Raisins crystal panels were used to decorate the interiors of the original Orient Express in the 1920s.
19. Is Lalique still made in the same factory in Wingen-sur-Moder?
Yes, the Lalique factory is still located in its original home, Wingen-sur-Moder in Alsace, France.
20. Is Lalique crystal dishwasher safe?
We recommend washing Lalique crystal by hand.
21. How do I clean a cloudy or "sick" Lalique glass vase?
First, do note that many Lalique pieces are known for their satin-finish crystal which is meant to be cloudy. For clear crystal that has turned cloudy, we recommend gentle wiping of the affected area using a microfibre cloth and a vinegar solution to remove the mineral deposits that is creating the cloudy effect.
22. Can I use vinegar to remove white film from my Lalique crystal?
Yes, you can try gently wiping the affected area using a clean microfibre cloth with a vinegar solution. But be careful to only do so until the residue is removed and not any further.
Learn about The Art of Texture: Exploring Lalique's Distinctive Finishes.
23. How should I store Lalique jewellery to prevent scratches?
The best way is to store them in a cool dark place, ideally in individual soft pouches made of non-scratchy materials like silk or velvet.
24. How do I clean a Lalique crystal mascot or car hood ornament?
For general cleaning, gently clean it with a clean microfibre cloth with lukewarm soapy water.
25. Can Lalique crystal be repaired if it has a chip or "flea bite"?
Crystal can be professionally repaired by experienced specialists.
26. What are the most iconic Lalique patterns/designs?
Some of Lalique's most iconic designs include the Bacchantes, Champs-Élysées, Fish, Zeila Panthers, Mossi, and Tourbillon.
27. Does Lalique crystal contain lead?
Yes, some of Lalique crystal contains lead. This gives the crystal a denser, stronger structure, increased clarity, and flexibility of use in various designs. For barware pieces, it is safe for general use.
28. What is the Lalique "Digital Product Passport" (NFC chip) found in new pieces?
In very specific items (the Bacchantes vase in clear crystal, the Mossi vase in clear crystal and the Champs-Élysées bowl in clear crystal), there is an NFC tag that you can scan with your smartphone for a digital experience.
29. Does Lalique still produce perfume bottles for other brands?
Lalique still produces custom perfume bottles in a select few brand collaborations.
30. Where can I get a professional appraisal for my Lalique collection?
We recommend that people use a licensed appraiser/evaluator for your personal collection and be wary to discuss all details before proceeding with any processes.
Did you know about Exclusive Lalique Collaborations: Designer Series Available in Australia