Material Matters: Why Genuine Materials Make a Difference in Lighting
If you’ve ever wondered why some lights feel instantly special, the secret usually lies in the materials. The materials used in a light fitting don’t just influence how it looks. They change how it feels, how it lasts, and how it shapes the mood of a room.
That’s why genuine materials like solid brass, alabaster, marble, hand-made glass, and crystal continue to stand out. They’re beautiful, durable, and they bring a level of craftsmanship and sense of luxury you can actually see.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes these materials special.
Real Brass
There’s something instantly satisfying about real brass. It’s solid, it’s warm, and it gains character as it ages. While imitation brass can look good at first glance, and is a great option if budget is a problem, it doesn’t develop that gorgeous patina that gives genuine unlacquered brass timeless charm.
Solid brass resists wear, weathers with grace, and can withstand everyday knocks. Unlacquered brass will darken with age, softening over time. If that’s not what you’re after, a quick polish will restore its shine at any time. Brass is a material you’ll appreciate more every year.
Alabaster
Alabaster is a favourite in feature lighting for one main reason: the light it gives off is unmatched. This natural, semi-translucent stone creates a gentle glow that feels warm and welcoming, perfect for places where atmosphere matters.
Alabaster is a softer stone, which means it can be carved into beautiful shapes which diffuse soft gentle light. Each piece of stone is unique, and there is a long history of the use of alabaster in lighting - meaning alabaster light fittings are at home in any classic or modern space.
Real alabaster has depth and warmth that synthetic alternatives simply can’t copy.
Marble
Marble instantly adds a sculptural, high-end feel to any piece of lighting. It’s sturdy, tactile, and beautifully varied, making every base or accent completely unique.
Again, each piece of marble is completely and utterly unique. As a harder stone that alabaster, marble is a better choice if placing in a spot where at risk of a knock. Marble can also be brought to a high polish for a look of ultimate luxury.
If you love materials with natural personality, marble is always a strong choice.
Hand-Made Glass
There’s something magical about hand-blown and hand-cast glass. Tiny variations, air bubbles, ripples, subtle shifts in thickness, give each piece a sense of life. You notice the craftsmanship every time the light hits it.
Artisan glass is one of our favourite materials to work with. No two pieces are ever the same, and there is an organic, asymmetric aesthetic that is inspired by nature. Light plays through textured glass, and creates highlights and shadows that bring a light fitting to life.
Crystal
Crystal is often thought of as glamorous, and of course it is in every way, but the real value is in the way it interacts with light. High-quality crystal has exceptional clarity, creating soft sparkles or gentle prismatic effects. Hang a crystal chandelier and watch the playful dance of fleeting rainbows at the edge of the rays of light refracting off it.
Why Genuine Materials Matter
When you choose lighting made from real, high-quality materials, you’re not just buying a product. You’re investing in something that ages gracefully, that will bring you joy with every glance, that have a sense of style and authenticity that will carry through the years.
Ready to Choose Lighting That Truly Shines?
If you’re looking for feature lighting made from real, high-quality materials, we’re here to help. Explore our collection online, or drop by our showroom for personalised advice and the chance to see these materials up close. Use filters on our online collection to see styles in the materials you are looking for.
Great lighting starts with great materials. Let’s find the perfect piece for your space.
