Marble, Alabaster, and Travertine Lights
Marble, alabaster, and travertine are three distinct natural stones that have captivated humanity for centuries with their timeless beauty and versatility. Each material possesses unique characteristics and qualities that make them highly valued in various applications, particularly in interior design. Let's delve into the differences between these stones and explore why they are cherished by designers.
Marble, renowned for its elegance and grandeur, is a metamorphic rock formed from limestone subjected to intense heat and pressure over time. It features intricate veining patterns and comes in a wide array of colours, from pure white to vibrant hues like green and red. Marble's popularity stems from its luxurious appearance, durability, and versatility. It can be polished to a high gloss or honed for a matte finish, making it suitable for a range of applications such as countertops, flooring, and decorative elements.
Alabaster, on the other hand, is a sedimentary rock composed of gypsum or calcite. It possesses a soft, translucent quality that allows light to pass through, creating a gentle, warm glow. Alabaster is often used in sculptural forms, light fixtures, and decorative accents. Its ability to diffuse light makes it a favourite among interior designers, who appreciate its ethereal and soothing ambiance. The natural colour of alabaster ranges from white to warm shades of beige and yellow, adding a touch of subtle elegance to any space.
Travertine, a type of limestone, is formed by the precipitation of mineral-rich water in underground streams and hot springs. It is characterized by its unique pitted texture, which lends a sense of natural beauty to any application. Travertine typically comes in earthy tones like beige, tan, and brown, but can also exhibit vibrant shades due to the presence of impurities. Its durability, versatility, and natural charm make it a popular choice for flooring, walls, and countertops.
What makes these materials highly valuable to interior designers is their aesthetic appeal and ability to elevate spaces. Their natural patterns and colours add depth, texture, and sophistication to any design scheme. The versatility of marble, alabaster, and travertine allows designers to incorporate them seamlessly into various styles, be it classic, contemporary, or eclectic.
In addition to interior designers, lighting designers also adore working with these materials due to the captivating effects they produce. When used in lighting fixtures, marble, alabaster, and travertine enhance the beauty of light by diffusing it in a soft, enchanting manner. The translucent quality of alabaster, in particular, creates a gentle and alluring glow, transforming a simple light source into a work of art. Lighting designers appreciate the aesthetic and functional possibilities offered by these stones, as they can craft visually stunning and captivating lighting installations.
Marble, alabaster, and travertine are highly valued natural stones cherished by both interior and lighting designers. Their distinctive qualities, such as elegant veining, translucent glow, and natural textures, make them sought-after materials. When incorporated into lighting fixtures, these stones bring timeless beauty and a touch of luxury to any space, showcasing their enduring appeal and enduring popularity in the world of design. Browse our collection of lights made with marble, alabaster, and travertine or visit our showrooms to see samples in person.