The grave candle plays a very special role in burials. It has a high ritual value and has been illuminating the resting places of the deceased since time immemorial as ’soul light‘ or ‚eternal light‘. On Christian tombs in Germany grave candles are often seen throughout the year. The warm light, especially of the wax candles, many people find comforting and soothing. The traditional grave candles are usually in a mostly red case. In addition to the wax or paraffin candle, they are now also offered with modern solar and LED technology and different setting options.

Types of grave candles

Buying grave candles gives you the choice between simple and electrically operated models. The simple, classic candle is made of paraffin or beeswaxmanufactured, with candles made of beeswax in the production are more expensive than those made of paraffin and therefore a little more expensive. In order to protect them from wind and weather and premature extinction, they are usually placed in red glass cases. Meanwhile, these grave candles including container are also offered in many other colors such. white, orange or beige. Despite everything, the color red is still the most popular in the field of grave candles.

The soft light of these classic funeral candles is perceived as particularly pleasant. Instead of normal candles, wax tealights are also sometimes used. However, grave candles made of wax only have a relatively short burning time of only a few hours, so that they have to be renewed at certain intervals. In addition, they need a location where they can easily fall over without causing a fire.

In recent years, the trend is increasingly towards solar or battery-powered electric grave candle , Visually, it is hardly distinguishable from real wax candles and is also available in a glass or plastic case. However, it has the great advantage that it is less sensitive to weather conditions and rarely needs to be replaced or maintained. What is often perceived as a disadvantage is the light of electric grave candles. Compared to real wax candles, it is not perceived as pleasant and rather cold.

Cost of natural and artificial grave candles

The prices for grave candles differ, depending on whether they are natural or artificial models. Since LED and solar powered usually have a longer life, they are usually more expensive. In addition, different adjustment options such as the adjustment of the light intensity affect the price. While battery-operated candles and protective glass are already available for 5-10 euros, high-quality LED grave candles can cost as much as 50 euros and more and solar-powered between 25 and 40 euros. Although all these candles are also cheaper, but if you are looking for longevity and quality, you may need to dig a little deeper into your pocket.

What to look for when buying

Especially when buying solar and LED grave candles there is a lot to consider. For example, bolted housings that are cast in one piece are preferable in the event that something needs to be repaired. Moreover, good seam processing is important to prevent moisture from entering the electronics. Plastic housings should be UV and temperature resistant as well as waterproof and impact resistant. Not to forget the bulb, which should have the highest possible luminosity. Should the electric grave candle All year outdoors, all electronic components but also the lamp itself must be protected from moisture. High quality should also be the solar cells. As far as the current efficiency is concerned, monocrystalline solar cells are recommended, which pay off especially in a rather shady spot or when the sky is often overcast. The battery should have a high capacity, and if possible an environmentally friendly option, such as a nickel-metal hydride battery.