The History of Neon: From the original glass bulbs to modern LED strip lighting

Neon lights have long been a vibrant part of our cultural landscape, from the bustling streets of Las Vegas to the cosy corners of your favourite diner. Their journey from classic glass bulbs to cutting-edge LED strip lighting is a story of innovation and cultural impact.

The Birth of Neon

The story of neon lighting begins in the late 19th century with the discovery of neon gas by a British Chemist. 

The word “neon” is derived from the Greek word “neos,” meaning “new,” was found to emit a bright red-orange glow when an electric current passed through it. However, it wasn’t until 1910 that French engineer and inventor Georges Claude unveiled the first neon lamp at the Paris Motor Show, marking the dawn of neon lighting as we know it.

Claude’s neon lamps quickly gained popularity for their eye-catching glow. By the 1920s, neon signs had made their way to the United States, where they complemented the glitz and glamour of cities like New York and Los Angeles. The iconic “liquid fire” of neon lights began to bright that something extra to everything from theaters and restaurants to billboards and storefronts.

Neon in Popular Culture

As neon signs spread across the globe, they became more than just a practical lighting solution; they became cultural icons. In the 1950s and 60s, neon lights were a symbol of modernity and progress, adorning the facades of diners, motels, and movie theaters. The distinctive glow of neon became a backdrop for countless films and television shows, embedding itself into the collective memory of generations.

The Evolution to LED

While traditional neon signs have an undeniable charm, they come with certain limitations. Neon tubes are fragile, require high voltage, and involve intricate handcrafting, making them expensive and labor-intensive to produce and maintain. Enter LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology, which began to revolutionize the lighting industry in the latter half of the 20th century.

LED strip lighting offers several advantages over traditional neon:

• Energy Efficiency: LEDs consume significantly less power than neon tubes, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
• Durability: LEDs are more robust and less prone to breakage than fragile glass neon tubes- if issues arise , often they can be easily repaired.
• Flexibility: LED strips are highly versatile, allowing for a wider range of colors, brightness levels, and dynamic lighting effects.
• Safety: LEDs operate at lower voltages and generate less heat, reducing the risk of burns and electrical hazards.
• Longevity: LEDs have a longer lifespan, requiring less frequent replacements and maintenance.

The Future of Neon

Today, LED strip lighting has brought the magic of neon into the 21st century, offering the same vibrant, colorful illumination with added benefits. This modern twist on a classic medium allows for greater creativity and innovation in design. From architectural lighting to personalized home decor, LED neon lights continue to capture our imagination and bring a touch of brilliance to our lives.

At our company, we combine the timeless appeal of neon with the advantages of LED technology, providing custom and high-quality neon lights that cater to every style and preference. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgic charm of classic neon or the sleek versatility of LED strips, our lights are designed to light up your world in the most spectacular way.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the history of neon. We invite you to explore our collection and see how this remarkable evolution can illuminate your space.

Warm regards,

Jamie and Charlotte Chapman