What is the composition of Baccarat crystal?

In 1816, the collective of Baccarat artisans developed a closely guarded formula that transforms the four elements of nature—earth, air, fire, and water—into crystal of unparalleled quality. For colored creations, Baccarat’s master glassmakers enrich this base with precious metallic oxides: gold for the iconic Baccarat red (a signature hue achieved through colloidal gold), cobalt for deep blues, manganese for purples, and selenium for certain shades of orange. These colorants are incorporated into the molten crystal at temperatures approaching 1450°C, using recipes that remain strictly confidential. The purity of the raw materials is fundamental to achieving Baccarat’s standard of excellence. Each component is selected according to the most stringent criteria and analyzed in the Manufacture’s laboratories. This meticulous selection process, combined with the artisans’ expertise, results in a crystal of absolute clarity—an essential hallmark of Baccarat’s identity. Baccarat crystal embodies French excellence through a rigorously controlled composition, the result of more than two and a half centuries of savoir-faire. This unique formulation gives Baccarat creations their exceptional brilliance and purity.