Baccarat Crystal Bowls

Yes, Baccarat is lead crystal. In order for a work of glass to be deemed “lead crystal,” its chemical composition needs to contain no less than 24 percent lead oxide. Historically, crystal glassware referred to decorative tableware and drinking vessels that was made of leaded glass. Today's "lead-free crystal" is made with barium oxide, zinc oxide, or potassium oxide instead of lead.

One of the world’s foremost crystal manufacturers, Baccarat has long been emblematic of luxury and exquisite craftsmanship. While glass chandeliers were quite popular lighting fixtures for palatial homes in the 19th century — and they still bring welcome drama to a space — Baccarat chandeliers were different from the rest of the world’s supply. 

At the time, artisans at Baccarat added nickel oxide to their leaded glass mixture during the manufacturing process, which made for a perfectly clear rock crystal imitation. Owing to distinct and innovative processes like these, which yielded strikingly clear pieces of glass, Baccarat chandeliers and pendants — as well as the company’s decorative objects, serveware and other glass pieces — were soon prized as symbols of wealth all over the world.

Find antique and vintage Baccarat lighting for sale on 1stDibs.

Yes, Baccarat crystal is indeed still made. You can pop onto Baccarat’s website to see its latest collection of fine crystal tableware. Or shop a collection of vintage and contemporary Baccarat crystalware from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

To choose a quartz crystal bowl, consider your own personal preferences. Bowls come in a variety of shapes and a range of colors. Determine which ones appeal most to you. In addition, consider how much space you have for your new bowl and look for pieces that are appropriately sized. On 1stDibs, shop a range of quartz crystal bowls.

To tell if your punch bowl is crystal, hold it up to the sunlight. If you can see a rainbow prism of color, this indicates crystal. If not, the bowl is glass. You can shop a range of antique and vintage crystal pieces on 1stDibs.

You can tell if a punch bowl is real crystal by holding it up to the light. The lead will give it a refractive quality. An authentic crystal punch bowl will sparkle in the light—the more lead it contains, the more it will sparkle. Shop a collection of crystal punch bowls from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.