The Difference Between Decorative & Functional Candles: What You Should Know
Not all candles are made with the same intention. Some are designed to burn beautifully and scent your space, while others are created as artistic objects to elevate your home visually. Knowing the difference ensures you enjoy each type for what it offers — without disappointment.
What is a Decorative Candle?
Decorative candles are made first and foremost as design pieces. Their shape, texture, and visual impact come before function. Think sculptural forms like Amora’s Verta, Thea, Lia, or our novelty creations inspired by flowers, art, and curves.
Because they prioritize aesthetics:
- They may burn unevenly or drip.
- They’re often lightly scented or unscented to preserve form and finish.
Perfect for:
- Styling coffee tables, shelves, and bedside corners
- Adding mood and ambiance through design, even unlit
- Occasional lighting, with care for expected dripping or wax flow
What is a Functional Candle?
Functional candles are created with the purpose of burning steadily, offering light, and diffusing fragrance.
Examples include:
- Container candles in concrete vessels or glass jars
- Classic pillars and tapers
- Sculptural forms engineered for a clean, even burn
These are carefully balanced in wax, wick, and fragrance load to provide long, satisfying burns.
Perfect for:
- Daily rituals
- Consistent room fragrance
- Creating warmth and glow without worrying about form changing too much
Can Decorative Candles Be Burned?
Yes — but with realistic expectations. Their artistic forms mean dripping, uneven melting, or shorter burn times are entirely normal. Decorative candles are best enjoyed as living art: admired daily, and occasionally brought to life with flame.
Choosing the Right Candle for Your Purpose
| Your Goal | Recommended Candle |
|---|---|
| Scent your home | Container, Pillar Candles |
| Decorate your space | Sculptural, Artistic Candles |
| Daily ritual use | Pillar, Taper, Container |
| Visual statement | Sculptural, Novelty Shapes |
Why Both Matter in Your Home
Decorative candles elevate your aesthetic.
Functional candles enrich your atmosphere.
At Amora, we design both — so you can enjoy the beauty of a candle whether you choose to light it or simply let it speak through its form.
With grace,
Luxmi
Founder, Amora