MATERIALS AND FINISHES

BASE MATERIALS

A lamp base is just as important as the lampshade to have a complete look. Depending on the base material, a lamp or ceiling fixture acts as the finishing touch in a room in the same way that jewelry accessorizes an outfit. It involves a unique combination of lifestyle and functionality. The chart below highlights some of the base materials used in Surya lighting.

  MATERIAL CHARACTERISTICS BENEFITS
Ceramic A hard brittle material made by firing clay in a high temperature oven known as a kiln. Strong durability and scratch resistant. Adds a brightness to any room.
Crystal Transparent glass of very high quality, usually with its surface cut into a delicate pattern that reflects light. Highly durable and decorative properties. Known for clarity and high shine and adds a touch of elegance to any room.
Glass Transparent or translucent hard brittle substance. Fragile material, resistant to corrosion. Provides unique, clean looks.
MDF/Composition Medium-density fiberboard is a wood substitute material. Inexpensive and durable. Can provide a rustic appearance.
Metal A solid material that is typically hard, shiny and fusible (e.g., iron, gold, silver, copper, aluminum). Durable, strikingly beautiful, clean look and versatile.
Wood A material taken from the trunk or branches of a tree or shrub. Very durable. Provides a rustic look.

BASE FINISHES

The finishes below represent some of Surya’s common options with corresponding characteristics and benefits for each.

FINISH CHARACTERISTICS BENEFITS
Antique An oil-based protective finish that gives a soft, hand-rubbed luster. Durable and easily maintained.
Bronze Smooth finish that is a metallic brown color that resembles the actual alloy bronze. Versatile and can be used in different styles and room settings. Durable and easy to clean.
Brushed, Nickel Created by gently rubbing nickel-plated brass with an abrasive pad for a satin finish. Extremely durable finish.
Brushed, Steel A finishing process whereby friction is applied to the steel. The process is done with fine bristle brushes that leave a dull, non-reflective surface on the steel. Does not show fingerprints.
Pewter A soft, smooth, matte finish. Visibly desirable and similar in appearance to silver.
Distressed Finish is intentionally manipulated to look less than perfect, such as with sandpaper. Provides a naturally weathered look that is durable.
Glazed A finish process that involves two hand-detailed techniques. The initial coat of glaze softens the base color. The highlight glaze increases visual depth. Provides a natural luster and scratch resistant finish.
Natural Finish Clear finish that adds luster, warmth and character to the wood while protecting it. Shows natural beauty of the base material.
Painted Lamp is painted for a rich, beautiful color. Durable.
White Washed A staining technique that allows for a brightened or white wood appearance without hiding the wood grain pattern. Provides a weathered chic appearance. Durable finish that brightens the base because the light is reflected from the white surface.