A comparative study of the solid-state reaction synthesis of cordierite with and without the use of a flux was performed, varying the sintering temperatures between 900 degrees and 1400 degreesC. Bi2O3 proved to be a useful additive for lowering the temperature needed for the reaction to take place. The deviation from the ordered beta -cordierite phase was analyzed using the distortion index Delta as a factor of merit. The values obtained for Delta in all compositions showed that cordierite tended to a much-ordered structure with increased sintering temperatures.