The third form of light, "play of brilliance", results from the insight that light not only draws attention to information, but can also represent information for itself.
Decorative lighting incorporates the range of lighting effects that are used for their own sake either to add atmospheric or decorative touches rather than for any practical function. Examples include the atmosphere created by a candle on a restaurant table, an object of Light Art or coloured lighting whose main purpose is to influence and change the colour impression in a room. It also includes all to the specular effects that point light sources can produce on reflective or refractive materials. Furthermore, the light source itself can also be considered to be brilliant. This "play of brilliance" can add life and ambiance, especially to prestigious venues.
What was traditionally produced by chandeliers and candlelight can now be achieved in a modern lighting design by the targeted use of light sculptures or by creating brilliant effects on illuminated materials. Light sources for this include lighting tools for lighting effects, decorative luminaires, or simply a candle. Light objects, signs and illuminated displays also fall into this category.
Only when ambient luminescence, focal glow and play of brilliance are combined together can a lighting concept be complete.