Are you a candle lover?  Have you tried both Gel Candles & Paraffin Candles candles and do you notice the difference?  I'm just going to give you some basic  tips and info to help inform you of the differences and help you to make good decisions when it comes to purchasing and burning your favorite candles.

          Gel Champagne Flute                                                         Paraffin Apothecary Jar

Although I create and burn several different types of candles for my shoppe and home there are some distinct differences when it comes to gel, some are listed here:

• gel burns hotter than paraffin wax and the wicks need to be kept shorter, on a paraffin jar:  the wick should be trimmed to 1/4" or less at all times, on a gel jar: the wick should be trimmed to 1/8" or less at all times.
• gel candles last approx. twice as long as a paraffin candle of the same size.  Yes, that's right you should get twice as many hours out of your candle if purchasing a gel candle.
• gel candles have awesome scent throw, even without lighting most of the time.  Many people buy my gel candles for display in their homes and enjoy the scent without lighting.
• It cost more to manufacture gel candles than it does paraffin candles, gel cost alot more on average, so you can expect to pay an increase in price verses your standard paraffin candle.
• When creating Gel candles, it can be hazardous and dangerous to the inexperienced candle maker, it should never be left unattended when melting.
• although there are many scents available in gel candles, there are many scents that are not safe to mix with gel.  You have to ask when ordering if your desired scent is available in a gel candle.

I personally create several different types of gel candles, I do however; offer my custom blended paraffin candles also.  As far as which type of candle to buy, I guess it's a personal preference unique to each candle lover.  I would recommend that you try at least 1 gel candle if you haven't already.  You will get your money's worth if you do.