Discover the history, advantages, and the timeless design of duralex tableware, a symbol of durability, practicality, and nostalgia on brazilian tables
Submitted at Apr 1, 2026, 9:00 AM
(Freepik/Divulgação)
Present in kitchens, bars and restaurants throughout Brazil, duralex tableware is a true symbol of practicality and sentimental value. Who hasn’t had an amber plate or a sturdy glass that seemed “indestructible”?
Far beyond nostalgia, these items have earned their place thanks to their durability, versatility, and simple design that spans generations without losing relevance. In this article, you will learn the origin of these iconic pieces and understand why they remain so popular on Brazilian tables.
The history of duralex begins in France, with the creation of the Duralex brand, founded in 1945. The company was a pioneer in the production of tempered glass, a material that undergoes a special thermal process, becoming much more resistant to impacts and temperature variations. This technological advance revolutionized the housewares market, enabling the manufacture of more durable and safer tableware for everyday use.
(Duralex/Divulgação)
The name “Duralex” comes from the Latin expression “Dura lex, sed lex,” which means “the law is harsh, but it is the law,” reflecting the material’s strength and firmness.
In Brazil, duralex became extremely popular from the second half of the 20th century onward. The pieces began to be produced locally, which eased access and reduced costs, making them a common presence across different social classes. Dishes, bowls, and glasses became part of Brazilian families’ daily lives, especially because they are affordable and practically unbreakable.
(Divulgação/Divulgação)
In addition, the simple, functional aesthetic matched domestic routines perfectly, consolidating duralex as an indispensable item in kitchens.
One of duralex’s great distinctions is its timeless design. The pieces generally feature rounded shapes, smooth surfaces, and translucent colors, with amber being one of the most recognizable tones. This understated look allows the tableware to adapt to different styles of table setting, from the simplest to contemporary compositions.
(Tua casa/Divulgação)
Another important point is ergonomics: plates and glasses were designed for practical day-to-day use, with easy stacking and resistance to heavy use.
The durability of duralex is directly linked to the tempered glass used in its manufacture. This material undergoes a heating process followed by rapid cooling, which significantly increases its mechanical strength. As a result, the pieces withstand light drops, abrupt temperature changes, and frequent use without being easily damaged.
(Duralex/Divulgação)
Furthermore, when they break, the fragments tend to be less sharp, which increases safety — an essential factor for domestic and commercial use.
Even with the emergence of new materials and trends, duralex remains relevant in interior design and table decoration. Today, it is often incorporated into proposals that value a retro or sentimental style, bringing a sense of coziness and memory.
(CASACOR/Divulgação)
Combined with modern elements, such as sophisticated flatware or neutral linens, the tableware takes on a new interpretation, showing that the classic can also feel current. Thus, duralex remains an example of how functionality and design can go hand in hand over time.
