Baccarat Crystal

A mere mention of the name Baccarat brings forth visions of luxury and elegance, and for good reason. A company with origins dating back to the reign of Louis XV, Baccarat crystal, from decanters to candelabra, has defined the utmost in exceptional crystal glassware for more than two centuries.

Baccarat was established by King Louis XV in 1764 in the eastern French town of the same name in order to produce utilitarian goods, such as windowpanes, as well as more elegant items, like stemware. Fifty years later, Baccarat installed their first crystal ovens and soon after received their first royal commission. Their steady ascent to acclaim arose from their masterful crystal pieces. Characterized by pristine brilliance and elegant cut designs, Baccarat crystal was soon renowned around the world for their refined and even regal designs, with their patterns featured on many royal tables over the course of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Now featuring pieces in boutiques around the globe, Baccarat crystal still captivates collectors with its remarkably universal appeal. Whether it's a full set of Baccarat champagne glasses or a stunning Baccarat chandelier, Baccarat crystal will always exude the elegance of history even in the most contemporary setting.

Quick Facts

• The current Christie's auction record price for a Baccarat crystal piece was set in 2012 with a crystal and cut glass tantalus in the form of an elephant. Marked BACCARAT FRANCE and featuring gilt- bronze accents, the tantalus sold for $133,968
• The world's largest Baccarat crystal chandelier was designed by Yasumichi Morita. It measured 27.5 feet tall and features 26,500 crystal pieces. On display in Tokyo's Ebisu Garden Palace until early January 2016, the chandelier is valued at $3,298,968
• An ice cream for the upper crust: New York ice cream eatery Serendipity 3 offers a treat called the Serendipity Golden Opulence Sundae which is covered in 23-carat gold leaf and served in a Baccarat Harcourt goblet