Coloured glass light fittings are popular for their uplifting effect and intricate or elegant designs. The glossy, vibrant surface of a coloured glass shade attracts the eye like a jewel and offers an alternative to the quieter look of fabric. Often mimicked with plastic or resin, the natural quality of glass—shaped by fire and water—has everlasting appeal.
In this article, we look at fashionable coloured glass lighting designs from past and present.
Coloured glass – how it is made
Coloured glass was first created thousands of years ago by the Ancient Egyptians and Mesopotamians. The various colours are achieved by adding an oxide, sulphide or other metal compound to the molten glass. Gold ruby glass is one of the more costly red glasses to make, as it contains gold chloride. Other metals used include iron oxide for greens and browns, nickel oxide for violet, and antimony oxide for white. Glass is also coloured or decorated with paint.
Coloured glass styles
Traditional style
Coloured glass and artificial lighting were spectacularly wedded at the end of the 19th century, when the first Tiffany lamp was produced. The stained glass Tiffany lamp soon symbolised the Art Nouveau period. Nature was the main source of inspiration, with flowers, dragonflies, butterflies, and peacock feathers all well represented by the Tiffany Studios.
So iconic was the Tiffany lamp that modern copies are still known as ‘Tiffany style’ lamps. These beautiful items are ideal for the traditional or eclectic style of home.
The Searchlight is inspired by an especially famous Tiffany design, which had a series of dragonflies with delicately patterned wings lining the edge of the shade. The original was created by Tiffany’s head designer, Clara Driscoll, between the years 1900 and 1906. .
Classic style
Classic style is defined by timelessness and co-ordinates well with modern or traditional décors.
Contemporary style
A contemporary light fitting is made noticeable by bold use of colour, texture and form. Blown glass can be fashioned into beautifully elegant shapes and imbued with rich colours. These eye-catching luminaires with polished chrome fixings are effortlessly stylish and certain to enliven a modern home. Choose a colour to match your décor!
Minimalistic designs are another hallmark of contemporary lighting. Here, the graceful coloured glass bases are given centre stage by the subtlety of classic fabric shades.
Ceiling pendants with low-hanging shades are a trendy choice in modern dining rooms and kitchens. An example is a three light pendant, which is ideal for use above a dining table, kitchen island, or breakfast bar. The strong downward flow of light from the shades helps define personal space and create an intimate ambience for mealtimes.
Colour effects
Even the chicest luminaire has a particular lighting effect. A dark glass shade emphasises the warm glow of a bulb and creates a soothing mood, while a paler glass allows greater transmission of light.
The inside of a glass shade also affects output. A white interior reflects and gathers light and projects it downwards. Consequentially, it is extra efficient in lighting kitchen or dining surfaces.
Coloured glass shades without a reflective interior allow a stronger passage of outward light. This emphasises their hue.
You might ponder these virtues while choosing a fabulous light fitting