What color of LED light to use for display of minerals? Cool or warm?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the optimal LED light color for displaying a rock and mineral collection in glass cabinets. Users recommend using cool LED lights, as they provide a more accurate representation of mineral colors, akin to older fluorescent lights. While halogen lights are commonly used by mineralogists, their high heat output and energy consumption make them unsuitable for continuous use. The suggested LED lights are 21 small lights per 2-ft string, available in warm and cool options.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of LED lighting specifications
  • Familiarity with color temperature concepts
  • Knowledge of mineral display techniques
  • Basic electrical safety for lighting installation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research LED color temperature and its impact on mineral display
  • Explore different LED lighting options for home displays
  • Learn about the benefits of using cool lighting in mineralogy
  • Investigate energy-efficient lighting solutions for continuous use
USEFUL FOR

Mineral collectors, interior designers, lighting specialists, and anyone interested in optimizing the display of minerals in home environments.

BarnRat
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I'm going to display my rock and mineral collection in glass door cabinets in the living room. I've found some LED under-the-counter lights, 21 small LED lights per 2-ft string. I plan to use one of the strings for each shelf. They come in two "colors", warm and cool. Sorry, they don't specify any more decent specs for the lights. Given this, would you use a warm light (more like a normal incandescent bulb) or a cool light (like most older fluorescent lights)?

I know most mineralogists use halogen lights but those generate too much heat and use too much power. I plan to leave these lights on all the time.

Any other suggestions are welcome!
 
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If you want to display reality, cool light to get closest to http://www.rise-lite.com/download/kelvin-color-temperature-scale
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Andre said:
If you want to display reality, cool light to get closest to http://www.rise-lite.com/download/kelvin-color-temperature-scale
Thank you for your reply and the link to that chart.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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