Over the past few years, novelty lighting has become increasingly popular for home décor. Two options—trimlight and gemstone lights—stand out for their unique and eye-catching effects. But which one is right for your space? This guide examines the key factors to help you decide.
| Comparison Criteria | Trimlight | Gemstone Light |
| Lighting Effect | Soft, diffuse glow | Sparkling, flickering ridges and facets |
| Shape Options | Lanterns, globes, abstract shapes | Geometric panels mimicking gems |
| Light Source | String lights, mini lights | Small integrated LEDs |
| Ambiance | Calming, peaceful | Warm, romantic, elegant |
| Installation | Hang or set in place | Mounted fixtures usually |
| Cost | $ | $$ |
| Durability | Low to moderate | Higher with acrylic panels |
In summary, trimlights offer a simpler glowing lighting effect from string or mini bulb lights formed into basic lantern shapes. Gemstone lights use LEDs and precisely-cut acrylic panels to emulate the glittering faceted effect of real gemstones for a more dazzling, high-end accent lighting look at a higher price point.
Trimlight and gemstone lights create ambient lighting and visual effects in different ways.
Trimlights use LED strips to emit a decorative glow from within triangle-shaped acrylic or plastic panels. The LEDs cycle through colors, brightness levels, and animation effects to create the appearance of floating, moving light.
Gemstone lights use LED bulbs or strips to illuminate faceted acrylic or glass “gemstones.” The light reflects and refracts inside the gems, making them sparkle. Gemstone lights come in a range of shapes and sizes to simulate different precious stones.
Also Read: Gemstone Vs. Jellyfish Lighting: Better Decor Lighting Choice
Both trimlights and gemstone lights work well for accent lighting, wall décor, or adding a pop of color. But their differing properties make certain applications more suitable.
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Trimlights range from $25-$150 depending on size, shapes, and controller features. Smaller 5-10 inch panels with basic effects start around $25. Larger 24-30 inch panels or sets with multiple changing effects, custom programming, or WiFi app control cost $100-150.
Gemstone lights range from $15 for mini string lights up to $500+ for large custom fixtures. Individual acrylic gemstones cost $5-20 each depending on size. Complete lamps, pendants or chandeliers with multiple stones, fancy metalwork and smart features can run into the hundreds.
So while basic trimlight panels are more affordable upfront, the sky’s the limit for fancier gemstone fixtures. Consider your budget and long term décor plans when deciding.
The lifespan of both types of lights comes down to their construction and usage.
Properly maintained trimlights can operate 25,000-50,000 hours thanks to durable plastics/acrylics and energy efficient LEDs. Their thin, surface-mounted design also keeps components safer from impacts and elemental exposure compared to pendant lights.
Gemstone lights with glass or crystal stones last 10,000-25,000 hours typically. However, individual acrylic gemstones may continue working much longer. Frequent handling and environmental factors take a heavier toll on glass, causing chips, cracks and clouding over time.
For the longest lasting novelty lights, acrylic trimlight panels or acrylic gemstones are the way to go. Avoid glass gemstones in high traffic areas since breaks shorten lifespan considerably.
Also Read: Trimlight Vs. Jellyfish Lighting: Choosing The Best
While trimlights and gemstones offer distinctive effects, other novelty lights bring different design elements to your space.
Thousands of tiny fiber optic cables refract light into vibrant pools of color. Offers a rainbow of hues, sparkle and flexibility for lighting walls, furniture, and décor pieces. More costly initial investment.
Silicone molded lamps with submerged LEDs resemble colorful jellyfish or lava lamps floating in water. Available in tabletop or floor sizes. Relaxing ambiance great for bedrooms or living rooms. Higher energy draw and external moisture risks can reduce lifespan.
Backlit graphic wall panels fusing light, photography and artwork. Choose from abstract colors, serene nature scenes or crisp architectural graphics. Ideal for making a design statement without elaborate fixtures. Printing and image quality varies greatly, so scrutinize product examples before purchasing.
While less common, these alternative novelty lights bring light sculpture, rich color and visual texture to both classic and modern room designs.
The average Trimlight panel costs $45-60 depending on size. Basic 10×10 inch panels start around $25. Larger 20×30 panels with more advanced lighting effects average $60. High end programmable Trimlights average $100-150.
Properly maintained Trimlights last 25,000-50,000 hours. Using acrylic instead of plastic builds and limiting environmental exposure maximizes lifespan. Expect 10 years of normal usage, with advanced Trimlight fixtures lasting 15+ years.
While shapes may appear similar, jellyfish lamps use molded silicone and water to create free-floating bubbles with LCD lighting. The relaxed ambiance resembles lava lamps or aquariums. Trimlights utilize thin LED-lit acrylic panels mounted to walls for more uniform backlighting and illumination effects.
Popular alternatives to gemstone lighting include fiber optic lighting, acrylic wall panels with internal LEDs or color-changing graphics, faux chandeliers using irregular shaped plastic pieces, and pendant lamps made from recycled glass fragments. These provide visual variety while mimicking facets and refraction.
Also Read: Trimlight Vs. Everlight: Choosing Trending Outdoor Lighting Option
Both Trimlights and gemstone lighting create eye-catching statement pieces through color, animation and sparkle. When choosing between the two, consider your budget, goals for versatility Vs. realism, durability needs, and energy efficiency.
For the most dynamic and customizable novelty lighting on a potential budget, Trimlights are the best option. But for showstopping crystal and gem décor magic, splurge on gemstone fixtures or DIY projects. Either way, let your personality and décor shine bright with these innovative lights!
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