Karambolage - Duralex

La Chapelle Saint-Mesmin: A Glimpse into History and Innovation

Overview of La Chapelle Saint-Mesmin

• La Chapelle Saint-Mesmin is a charming French commune located in the Loiret department, near Orléans, with approximately 9,500 residents known as Chapellois.

• The area commemorates an event from 1,500 years ago when Saint Mes fought a famous dragon.

Duralex Glassware: A Legacy of Durability

• For the past 70 years, Saint-Gobain has produced Duralex glassware in this region, known for its remarkable durability and resistance to shock and boiling water.

• Although Duralex glasses are robust, they can shatter into tiny pieces if dropped at certain angles; however, they do not break into sharp shards like regular glass.

The Origin of the Name "Duralex"

• The name "Duralex" derives from the Latin phrase "Dura lex sed lex," meaning "the law is hard but it is the law," reflecting both the strength of the glass and its legal connotation.

• In 1945, Saint-Gobain registered the Duralex brand for its tempered glass collection that undergoes high-temperature processing (1500°C).

Iconic Designs and Cultural Impact

• One notable design is the Gigogne glass with a rounded shape and embossed lines; each piece features a mold number ranging from 1 to 48.

• The Gigogne comes in three sizes (9cl, 16cl, and 22cl), all stackable. It has become a staple in French dining culture.

Challenges Facing Duralex Today