Burning the Midnight Oil

We recently discussed some of the intricacies and differences between soy and paraffin candles, and why soy always comes out on top when it comes to quality and scent. You've probably heard the phrase, "Burning the midnight oil," but what you may not know is that oil candles have evolved throughout the centuries, giving us a much updated version of the classic cliche. If you haven't heard about them, then continue reading to learn a little bit about their history and what makes them so unique.

While candle making has been around in many cultures since around 500 BC, many other cultures who had oils like olive oil readily available didn't see the emergence of wax-dipped candles up until the middle ages. By the 1600's, oil lamps became a primary source for light in lighthouse fixtures, as traditional methods of burning wood or coal left a lot of soot and tar residues. Through the years and into modern times, oil lamps became a fixture in many households. The Aladdin Lamp style made waves in the 1890's, which used kerosene as an oil fuel source. Then, by the 1970's, oil candles fueled by pure paraffin oil started to replace old counterparts with a larger focus on the design of the fixture itself.

The benefits to using oil candles can still be seen today. Many of the vessels that were once used to house the oil itself have become antiquities, and the same benefit can been seen in modern-day oil candles. You get to choose a vessel to house your oil which can be refilled time and time again, making it both a functional and decorative addition to your home. Rather than throwing out the entire candle and jar when the wick has burned down, you simply replace the oil in the vessel! Over time, this saves you money and allows you to continue using your favorite decorative vessel again and again.

Additionally, the wick does not burn as it would with a wax candle; it rarely ever needs to be trimmed. There's no "tunneling" effect like you get when wax burns around the wick of a candle but fails to burn outward towards the jar. Instead, your oil candle burns as one efficient unit and remains beautiful throughout the duration of the candle's life. Without the soot residue buildup that you'd normally get with a wax candle, the vessel and surrounding walls stay clean and free from black smoke and buildup!

The important focus is on bringing pieces of art into your home that are both beautiful and functional. The culmination of both of those values, surpasses the modern-day wax candle counterparts across the board.

Jay Hatfield founded Hatfield Copper Decor in April of 2013 and started selling scenic, draped, and votive oil candles along with soy candles, fused glass jewelry, plates, dishes, and clocks. The company's unique home decor is unlike any other. At Hatfield Copper Decor and More, we pride ourselves on quality. Our goal is to bring you decor that lights up your home and has your guests in awe.