A specular reflector and LED lamps using embodiments of the reflector are disclosed. Embodiments of the invention provide a reflector for solid state lamps. The reflector can be a specular reflector. The reflector includes a rigid, polymeric substrate and sputtered metal applied to the substrate. In some embodiments, the metal is silver. In some embodiments, the metal is applied without an intervening base coat. In some embodiments, the substrate is made from or includes an aromatic polyester such as polyarylate. The reflector can include a discontinuous or irregular surface yet still exhibit very high overall reflectivity and efficiency because the metal can be applied without an intervening base coat. In some embodiments, the reflector is used in lamps having a retroreflective optical design.