Gypsum, Plaster, Alabaster: What's the Difference in Lighting Materials?

When decorating, doing crafts, or buying home decor, you'll often hear the terms gypsum, plaster, and alabaster. While they may seem related, they're actually quite different. Some unscrupulous stores even confuse these three materials for lamps to profit. To help customers distinguish between the three materials and to promote knowledge, this blog post will explain the differences between these related materials in a simple and accessible way. Don't worry! I'll explain them in simple terms!

First Things First: What Are These Materials Made Of?

What is gypsum?

The "ordinary gypsum" we're familiar with is a natural mineral, the raw material for "drywall" commonly used in renovations. It's a white powder that becomes plastic when exposed to water and hardens when dried. It's both environmentally friendly and safe.

What is plaster?

It's essentially a mixture of gypsum, lime, cement, and other materials. It has a more "handmade" and heavier texture. Think of it as a "sculpture wall" material.

What is Alabaster?

Alabaster is a natural mineral, sometimes called "Alabaster" or "White Marble" (although strictly speaking, they are not the same). Its most captivating feature is its translucency and textured appearance, resembling clouds, mist, or a piece of luminous jade.

Strengths & Weaknesses of Gypsum, Plaster, and Alabaster

Gypsum

Strengths:

✔ Low cost, lightweight, and versatile in design
✔ Suitable for minimalist and modern styles
✔ Ideal for bedroom and hallway lighting

Weaknesses:

✘ Susceptible to moisture when exposed to water, not suitable for outdoor use
✘ Thin designs can be fragile

Plaster

Strengths:

✔ Craftsmanship-inspired, no-difference styles
✔ Pairs well with natural materials like wood and hemp
✔ Those who enjoy the Wabi-Sabi and Wabi-Sabi styles will love this

Weaknesses:

✘ Doesn’t like water—avoid using in bathrooms or outdoor spaces
✘ Heavier and harder to install than gypsum
✘ Not the most durable if dropped or knocked

Alabaster

Strengths:

✔ Looks expensive
✔ Natural grain, each piece is unique
✔ Soft, warm light, suitable for dining rooms, entryways, and sofa areas

Weaknesses:

✘ High cost, not suitable for large-scale use
✘ Heavy, requiring careful installation

So, what do these materials look like in lighting fixtures?

Gypsum in Lighting:

• Mostly used in wall lamps, recessed lamps, or decorative chandeliers.
• Can create minimalist, modern, or sculptural designs (such as recessed wall lamps).
• Commonly used in dry indoor spaces such as living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms.

Appearance and Texture:

• Matte, delicate white or light-colored finish.
• Can be created into curved or geometric shapes, creating an artistic aesthetic.

Plaster in Lighting:

• Similar in usage to gypsum, but with greater strength, suitable for large or complex lamp bodies.
• Some European brands use plaster to create artistic lamps with a strong sculptural feel.

Appearance and Texture:

• Also has a matte, delicate finish, suitable for hand-crafted textures.
• Compared to gypsum, it is more durable and suitable for large or complex lamps. Alabaster better reflects the original handcrafted feel.

Alabaster in Lighting:

• Commonly used in high-end table lamps, chandeliers, and wall lamps.
• Light penetrating through it creates a hazy effect reminiscent of natural marble.
• Many high-end American and Italian lamps use it as a lampshade.

Appearance and Texture:

• Similar to marble, but softer and more mellow, with a "jade-like" feel.
• Each piece is unique, creating a unique "natural texture" aesthetic.

Summary

 

Material	Overview	Strengths	Weaknesses	Lamp Applications	Visual Texture
Gypsum Regular Plaster	Natural mineral used in drywall and decor. Light, moldable, eco-friendly.	✔ Low cost, lightweight ✔ Flexible for sculptural designs ✔ Perfect for minimalist styles	✘ Absorbs moisture ✘ Thin parts can be fragile	Wall sconces, recessed lights, sculptural pendants for dry indoor areas	Matte white or off-white, smooth and clean Great for modern and geometric looks
Plaster Mixed Gypsum	A blend of gypsum with lime or cement. Heavier and more handcrafted feel.	✔ Stronger than gypsum ✔ Unique, artisanal appearance ✔ Great with wood, rope, or rustic textures	✘ Still moisture-sensitive ✘ Careful handling required	Artistic wall lamps, statement pendants, sculptural fixtures	Raw, handmade matte texture More organic and tactile than regular gypsum
Alabaster Translucent Stone	Natural stone with translucent, cloud-like patterns. Often called "snow stone".	✔ Luxurious appearance ✔ Each piece is one-of-a-kind ✔ Soft, glowing light diffusion	✘ Expensive ✘ Heavy and fragile	High-end chandeliers, table lamps, premium wall sconces	Translucent like jade or marble Organic, foggy textures with natural veining

Beauty Meets Function: Now You Know the Difference

Choosing between gypsum, plaster, and alabaster isn’t just about looks—it’s about finding the right balance between style, durability, and budget. Whether you're a designer, renovator, or just someone who loves beautiful lighting, knowing what goes into your materials can help you make smarter, longer-lasting decisions.

So next time you see a lamp that looks like stone or sculpture, take a second look—you might just spot the difference. 😉