Everything You Need to Know Before Buying Alabaster Candle Holders

Selecting the perfect stone candle holder can make a big difference in the overall atmosphere of a room. It alters the brightness, the ambiance, and even the safety aspect of the place. A nice candle holder is durable for years and is gradually integrated into the narrative of your house. This guide will describe alabaster candle holders, what to look for in them, and how to maintain them. You will also be given styling suggestions and a list of the most frequent purchasing errors. Ultimately, you will be fully aware of what to examine.

Alabaster Candle Holders: What to Expect

Alabaster is a sublimely soft and translucent stone. For ages, artisan makers have been using it as their main raw material for creating lamps and holders for candles. The stone is not fully transparent, but still has a very nice transmission of light. Each specimen has its unique veining and patterns. The collection contains holders that are quite similar but not totally identical. Most of them are made by hand; thus, the differences in finishes are minor. The stone is smooth and cool to the touch. However, it is somewhat porous, meaning that if care is not taken, it can absorb liquids. These characteristics are what make alabaster exceptional. They also imply that it has to be treated with care. So, let’s discuss the reasons behind its popularity among people.

Benefits of Choosing Alabaster

Light Quality & Ambiance

Lighting a candle in an alabaster is like getting a glimpse into a fairy tale. The stone softens the light. It is a soft and delightful light that spreads equally and embraces all. The effect is inviting and soothing. It is suitable for late-night gatherings or silent suppers.

Appearance and Rarity

Alabaster can adapt to almost all styles. It is compatible with contemporary homes and antique interiors. The randomness of the natural stains makes every piece unique. Some have very light cream veins. Others get yellowish or greyish tints. Since it is hand-carved, each holder is unique. This peculiarity significantly increases the price. If you are in search of more artistic ways to give your home personality, then you should certainly consider pieces like these as your unique artisan homewares to elevate your living space collections.

How to Choose the Right Piece

Material & Finish

Genuine alabaster is solid stone. A few less expensive options use alabaster veneer over another material. Solid pieces are heavier and shine better. The finish is also important. Polished alabaster is highly reflective and very clear in displaying patterns. Matte finishes are quieter but not as long-lasting.

Size, Weight & Stability

A candleholder of the right size should be bought for your candle. Measure the candle’s diameter before making a purchase. A tight fit maintains the candle in an upright position. Heavier bases are suitable for tall candles. Light holders can easily be knocked over. 

Authenticity & Provenance

Inquire about the source of the alabaster. Egyptian alabaster, particularly from the Luxor region, is the most sought-after for its quality. Try to find out about the workshop or the artisan. Trustworthy sellers will provide this information. True alabaster has some natural defects. If it is too good to be true, it could be a mimic.

Practical Checks Before Buying

Trace the surface with your fingers. Look for cracks and rough spots. Take a look at the base. It should rest steadily on a table. Check if there is enough space around the flame. Some stones will burn if the candle is too close. Ask what kind of candles pair best with the holder.

Care & Maintenance

The secret of alabaster’s longevity is a little bit of care. Here is what you can do to maintain your alabaster.

  • After every use, wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth to get rid of the dust.
  • If necessary, gently clean with a damp cloth and avoid harsh cleaners.
  • To prevent water stains, make sure to dry the holder completely; never immerse it in water.
  • If the manufacturer recommends it, use mineral oil very sparingly.
  • Keep your alabaster-made stone in a place where sunlight and heat do not reach to avoid discoloration.

Styling & Placement Tips

Alabaster holders are a perfect solution to add warmth to any room. Here are some very simple ways to style them.

  • Put small holders in a group on a tray to make a centerpiece for your table.
  • For the dramatic effect, place a tall holder with taper candles on your mantel.
  • Set them by mirrors or glass to amplify the light effect.
  • Combining alabaster with brass trays or bowls will provide you with a rich and warm look.
  • If you light candles, use LED ones for safety.

All these tricks are not only a thankless way to make the most of the purchase but also protect the stone against accidents.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a selection based solely on the visual aspect is a mistake. Ensure that the size and weight are appropriate for your area. Skipping research on the source often leads to low-quality replicas that chip fast. Placing holders on unstable furniture or heat-sensitive areas without placing a mat first can be a source of trouble. Do not commit any of these mistakes, and your holder will live out its full lifespan.

Why Cairo Stone & Brass?

Cairo Stone & Brass has a direct relationship with Egyptian artisans in Luxor. The alabaster they use is sourced from the same valleys where the craftsmen have been working for centuries. Each item is made by hand, and a quality check is performed. The team does the lighting and homeware selection, hence you get the matching options. They are aware of the production periods and pack the items with utmost care for international shipping. 

Customer support provides answers to inquiries before and after the purchase. If you are set to take home a piece of authentic Egyptian craftsmanship, then start exploring their curated alabaster collection. 

Comments

Leave a comment

Design a site like this with WordPress.com
Get started