The invention comprises a borosilicate retention aid composition and a method for improving the production of paper by addition of the borosilicate. The borosilicate may be utilized in conjunction with a high molecular weight synthetic flocculant and/or starch, with or without the addition of a cationic coagulant. The borosilicate material is preferably a colloidal borosilicate. Methods for the preparation of the borosilicate material are disclosed.