Kerzen

Kerzen are wax-based light sources that burn a wick to produce light, heat, and often fragrance. They vary from slender tapers to wide pillars and are used for practical illumination, religious or ceremonial occasions, decoration, and aromatherapy. A typical Kerze consists of a wax body, a central wick, and a holder or container.

Historically, candles used animal fats or tallow; beeswax candles were common in parts of Europe. The 19th century saw paraffin wax enable cheap, mass production and new forms, including scented and decorative candles.

Waxes include paraffin, beeswax, soy, palm, and blends. Paraffin is inexpensive; natural waxes vary in burn characteristics and sustainability. Wicks are usually cotton braided, sometimes with metal cores. Common formats include tapers, pillars, votives, tealights, and jars.

Uses include lighting, mood creation, religious rites, and aromatherapy. Safety guidelines: keep away from flammables, trim wicks to about 5 mm, burn on heat-resistant surfaces, never leave unattended, and keep out of reach of children and pets. Extinguish with a snuffer.

Environmental considerations include the choice of wax and fragrance. Palm wax and paraffin pose differing sustainability concerns; natural waxes and recyclable containers reduce impact. Burning candles can release VOCs, so good ventilation is advised. Reuse or recycling of containers is common practice.