Favored by sculptors & architects for centuries, alabaster stone has a number of desirable qualities, most notably, its pleasant weight, powder-smooth surface, and ethereal white coloring. Easily cut, carved and polished, the rare beauty of this material comes from its soft translucency––a rare characteristic among stones––making it quite popular with artists and artisans throughout the world. Read on to discover the history of alabaster, styling suggestions, alabaster cleaning tips, and Gabby’s favorite alabaster lamps.
Ancient Art to Modern Artisans: A Brief History of Alabaster Lamps
From elaborate Egyptian pottery to romantic sculptures from the European Renaissance, precious alabaster artifacts have been identified on almost every continent. Long considered a luxury material, this stone was reserved for society’s most beautiful objects and sophisticated residences.
It’s no surprise that milky-white alabaster has maintained a desirable status. Softer and lighter than marble, alabaster provides a similar appearance without excess weight or cost. Due to the nature of stone, each piece is unique, sometimes showcasing contrasting veins of color. While white is the most common shade, alabaster can also be found in transparent grey, black, yellow, or red, depending on the product’s origin.
Alabaster also holds the ancient allure of symbolism and superstition. In many cultures, the stone is said to signify purity, and offer protection and healing qualities to babies and children –– a perfect addition to the nursery! Enchanted or not, the glowing appearance of alabaster lighting is quite wondrous.
How to Clean Alabaster Lamps
Gently sweep away dirt and debris using a soft bristled brush (artist or makeup brushes work well). Dust alabaster often to prevent scratching, excess moisture, and staining.
Alabaster Margaret Table Lamp styled by @angelineguidodesign. Photo: @mattigresham.
Designing with Alabaster Lamps
Due to its luminous appearance and neutral shade, alabaster looks incredible in a variety of different interior styles. These styling suggestions will help you embrace alabaster as one of 2019’s hottest home trends. Explore more fresh design trends for 2019.
Gabby’s brand new Braden Table Lamp is seen here with the deco-inspired Kai Chest.
Inspired by Jewelry
Fashion and furniture design collide with this runway-ready trend. Add a little sparkle and shine with home accents inspired by jewelry! Just like your favorite earrings or necklace, well-chosen alabaster lamp accents complete the look of your interior ensemble. We think the brass-framed Braden Table Lamp will be a showstopper for 2019. Also try: Megan Table Lamp.
Maple Table Lamp styled by Shayne Morrissey of @DesigningFortWorth. Photo by @jenmburner.
Masculine-Meets-Glam
Styled with warm textiles and darker finishes, alabaster lamps strikes just the right balance between masculine and glamorous design. Here, the cylindrical shape and handsome brass finish of the Maple Table Lamp lend a flash of glamour to this bedroom designed by Shayne Morrissey. Also try: Valencia Table Lamp.
Alabaster Lighting Additions: 3 more bright-white pieces to consider.
Mallory Pendant: Smooth alabaster rings encircle a suspended bulb in our Mallory Pendant. Showcasing creamy white stone & antique brass, this piece gleams with a touch of metal, and a transfixing glow when the light bulb is illuminated.
Comet Table Lamp: Not sure this material is right for you? Ease into alabaster with the Comet Table Lamp. This 32” alabaster lamp features a unique metal base and hexagonal shade, all finished with antique gold leaf. The eye-catching brilliance of this design is accented with a small alabaster platform set into Comet’s base––just the right amount of white!
Lexi Drinking Table: Keep your favorite cocktail close at hand with the small-scale, stylish Lexi Drinking Table. Tiled with beautiful alabaster, the cylindrical base & champagne metal support rod suspend a clear acrylic top. The brass finial ring acts as a convenient handle.
Do you crave the creative and enjoy the unexpected? Discover more unique materials from Gabby’s designers, and follow @gabbydecor on Instagram for the latest updates.
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