Luminarc cookware: features, types and choices
Among the large number of modern tableware manufacturers, one can single out those whose products combine quality, beauty and affordability. These are the brands Luminarc belongs to. Stylish and modern appliances decorate today not only apartments and houses, but also cafes, hotels, restaurants. Let's figure out what is the secret of the popularity of the dishes of this French brand.
Manufacturer information
Luminarc is one of the 8 firms included in the Arc-International concern. The history of the company began in 1825. Then the plant specialized in the manufacture of bottles for wine. Today it is a recognized leader in the production of glass products for professional and domestic needs.
The brand's manufacturing facilities are located around the world. Therefore, you should not be surprised to see the name of the country in which the product was produced on the packaging. It can be China, France, Spain, USA, UAE. Regardless of the place of production, all finished products invariably comply with European standards.
High quality tempered glass is used as material. To achieve the required strength, a special heat treatment is carried out. The quality and condition of raw materials is controlled at all stages of production. The combination of two centuries of traditions with modern technologies allows us to obtain practically unbreakable objects that can withstand strong temperature changes. At the same time, the manufacturer guarantees the absence of lead and heavy metals in the products. Some products are even accompanied by a special mark indicating this.
The assortment of the company is diverse:
- canteens, tea and coffee sets;
- drinking products (glasses, glasses, wine glasses, wine glasses, mugs);
- serving items (jugs, sugar bowls, bowls, oil cans);
- food containers;
- heat-resistant containers (baking dishes, pots);
- containers for storing bulk products;
- children's dishes.
All items are made of glass. Even utensils for cooking are made without metal inserts. At the same time, the design of products is so diverse that you can find an option for every taste (more than 150 decor options).
Items for children are particularly durable. They do not break, do not chip. The paints used to create bright drawings are environmentally friendly and absolutely safe for babies.
Luminarc cookware is supplied to 160 countries. This suggests that the popularity of the French firm is not exaggerated. At the same time, success is achieved not by an aggressive marketing policy, but by a successful combination of practicality, aesthetic appeal and affordable cost. Products usually come to Russia from the UAE and France.
Pros and cons of products
The virtues of Luminarc glass splendor confirmed by numerous consumer reviews.
- Variety of assortment. The company offers tableware for various purposes. There are containers designed for cooking in the oven or heating food in the microwave. There are sets for teas and feasts with a variety of dishes. There are serving items for buffets. In one store, if you wish, you can collect a complete set of dishes for the whole family, suitable for different occasions.
- Attractive design. The design of the products is also varied. There are transparent, matte white and black items. There are colored products and models with pictures. These are both bright prints and delicate patterns. Also, the dishes are varied in size and shape. The assortment is regularly updated, so you can always find stylish novelties here.
- Strength. Tempered glass is 5 times stronger than normal glass. If accidentally dropped on the laminate, it can maintain its integrity (in the case of tiles and stones - as luck would have it). You don't have to worry about scratches at all. You can safely use forks, spoons, a knife. The condition of the plates will remain impeccable.
- Security. The dishes have no sharp corners and edges, they cannot be injured. It is worth noting the environmental friendliness of the material itself and the paints used for decoration. In addition, glass has the lowest porosity of all materials, so it cannot absorb anything. That is why the brand's children's tableware is recommended even by experts.
- Durability. The company's products are designed for long-term daily operation. With use, the paints do not wear off and do not fade, chips do not appear. If you treat French glass with care and do not test its strength, products can serve, without losing their attractiveness, for more than 10 years.
- Affordable price. Although glass tempering is an expensive process, finished products are sold at very affordable prices.
- Ease of maintenance. No special preparations are needed to keep the products clean. You can safely wash the dishes with a sponge and regular detergent. Dirt is removed from surfaces quickly and easily. Also, any items from Luminarc can be placed in the dishwasher. This applies to both clear and colored glass.
- Practicality. The brand's products are resistant to low and high temperatures. Plates and other containers can be placed in the microwave. The heat-resistant molds also withstand the effects of the oven. Pots can be used on any hob except induction. At the same time, some models are resistant to sharp and strong temperature changes, which allows them to be placed in the microwave immediately after being removed from the refrigerator.
There are practically no drawbacks, but still it is worth noting some nuances.
- Potential for damage on impact. The company's products are highly durable, but still they cannot be called "indestructible".Everything has a limit. Therefore, you should not specifically carry out strength tests by dropping dishes on a hard floor or throwing them against a wall. In this case, there is still a risk of damage to the integrity of the product or the appearance of a crack.
- Some operating restrictions. When buying, it is important to read the instructions for using a particular item. The fact is that the models differ in manufacturing technology. In the microwave, you can put ordinary tempered glass, but in the oven - only borosilicate. Plates and bowls are not designed for oven use. Heat-resistant molds must not be placed on the stovetop. In addition, even containers that are resistant to temperature extremes should not be left empty on the hot plate. It is also undesirable to pour cold water into a hot pot.
Varieties
Sets and services
The brand's dining sets are designed for 4 or 6 persons. Most sets include 18 or 19 items. These are dinner, dessert and soup plates (6 pieces each). Also, in many versions, there is a rather large salad bowl. The most popular are the Carine and Diwali series. The most spectacular patterned options are White Orchid, Lyric Intense, Water Color, Lotusia Prunella, Trompette and some others.
The company's tea and coffee services are available in options for 2, 4 and 6 people. Cups and saucers are made of transparent, white, black, brown and colored glass. There are options with a pattern, round and square saucers. Some kits come with a teapot or coffee pot. The most original sets are "Kashima Purple", "Estakan Zari", Those who prefer the classics will love "Evolution", "Trianon".
You can also purchase a drinking set that includes a 1.6 liter carafe with a lid and 6 tall glasses. It will be especially relevant in hot summer when you want to refresh yourself with lemonade or freshly squeezed juice.
For those who wish to purchase as many dishes in the same style as possible, there are sets of 30 or 31 items, combining dinner, dessert and deep plates, mugs and salad bowls. There are also larger sets with 45 or 46 items. They also have tea pairs, glasses, jugs with lids.
I wonder what on supermarket shelves more often there are laconic sets of transparent, white, gray or brown glass (eg "Trianon Graphite", "Ocean Eclipse"). Therefore, if you want to buy something bright and unusual, you will have to go to the online store. The complete assortment will allow you to choose the shape of the plates, the height and width of the cups, the degree of transparency of the glass, the shade, the configuration, etc.
The cost of the sets varies from 800 to 12,000 rubles, depending on the design and the number of constituent elements.
Salad bowls and containers
Salad bowls are presented by the company in a wide range. Transparent and matte, with or without a lid, plain and with a pattern - there are many options. The diameter of the containers varies from 10-12 to 30 cm. The shape and volume are also different.
You can choose the classic white version that will harmoniously fit into any serving, or a bold black, which would be appropriate among the minimalistic modern tableware. Berries, lettuce leaves, small fruits will look especially good in transparent containers. Bright models will cheer you up and your appetite even on the gloomiest day.
The cost of salad bowls is more than democratic - from 40 to 600 rubles, depending on the volume and design.
Serving
Setting the table in anticipation of the guests, the hostess puts various items on the table. Any of them can be found in the assortment of the French brand. A herring is useful for fish. Granulated sugar, of course, should be served in a sugar bowl. Ice cream or other dessert will look great in an elegant bowl. The company also offers butter cans for butter, jugs for water, compotes and other liquids.
Tureens and soup bowls are interesting.The first ones are much more practical than the usual plates. Serving soup in such a bowl not only turns out to be more effective, but also saves space on the table.
Bouillonnice, despite the name, can be used not only for serving broth. For example, cappuccino can be poured into such wide, voluminous cups, garnished with whipped cream. Of course, it is very convenient to use such products for their intended purpose. For example, you can pour a chilled batch of soup from a saucepan and quickly reheat it in the microwave.
Heat resistant cookware
This ovenproof ovenproof dish is ideal for preparing a wide variety of dishes in the oven. Products are made of heat-resistant transparent and frosted glass. Forms are graceful, modern, ergonomic. This allows you to serve the finished dish directly in the container, without transferring it to another dish.
Molds are sold individually and in multi-piece sets. Oval and round versions are commercially available. The height of the sides and the volume are different. Any of the forms can be used in the microwave. Only the use of products on hobs of any type is not allowed. The cost of one form is from 200 rubles.
The brand's pans can be used in the oven, microwave, on any hob, except induction. Models are made of heat-resistant vitroceramics. The material is resistant to temperature extremes (from -40 to 800 degrees), does not emit harmful substances when heated, and does not absorb odors. The pots can be placed in the refrigerator and are easy to clean. It is only advisable to protect the dishes from strong blows.
The capacity of the pots is 5 liters. Models vary in height and width. All varieties are attractive looking and look great in any kitchen.
Glasses and glasses
Graceful wine glasses, glasses and shot glasses made of French glass will perfectly complement any bar. Brewers will love the roomy mugs, which come in options with and without decor. Cocktail lovers can purchase a set consisting of a shaker and 4 glasses.
Various glasses are available for soft drinks. The volume of containers varies from 220 to 360 ml. Height, width, shape and colors are different. Glasses are sold individually, as well as in sets of 3, 4, 6 pieces. Particularly interesting is the “Frost” series, the products of which are painted using the “frosty” gradient technique.
The prices for glasses start from 40 rubles apiece, wine glasses - from 60 rubles. Also in the assortment of the brand you can find a decanter at a price of about 2,000 rubles.
Children's tableware
Luminarc baby tableware is created with love for babies. In addition to the practicality, hygiene and safety of shatterproof items, the brand takes into account the needs of babies in everything bright and attractive.
Small mugs, glasses, plates, salad bowls and bowls are decorated with images of beloved cartoon characters. Disney princesses, funny Mickey Mouse, Nemo fish, Airplanes, Cars - this is not the whole list of options. Such dishes will undoubtedly attract the attention of the baby. There will be no more whims at the table, the fidget's appetite will increase. In addition, the child will be pleased that he is the owner of his own dishes.
All items are lightweight and easy to use. The dishes are designed for small portions and take up little space on the table. The bouillon dishes deserve special attention. Such a product allows the mother to feed the baby, holding the container by the handle.
You can purchase a whole set made in a single design. This set will be a great idea for a gift to a child of friends or relatives. A typical Luminarc children's kit includes a dessert plate, glass and cup. Some options are complemented by a bowl or salad bowl.
You can also pick up several matching items yourself. If friends are already visiting your child, you can decorate the festive table beautifully with the help of bright dishes from the French brand. Kids will be delighted with beautiful and interesting products.
Storage containers
Shock-resistant glass jars with lids are useful for any housewife. In such containers, you can store herbal preparations, cookies, various bulk products. Products are durable, environmentally friendly, do not absorb odors, do not emit harmful substances. In this case, the contents of the container are clearly visible. Luminarc cans range in volume from 0.5 to 1 liter. In addition, you can choose between two options: either an all-glass piece or a model with a plastic lid.
Containers with lids from the "Pure Box" series are an excellent solution for storing food in the refrigerator. Also, if you wish, you can take lunch with you to the countryside or to the office. The products are absolutely sealed. Thanks to the silicone gasket and special latches, the safety of the contents is guaranteed. Even liquid food will not spill if the container is inverted or shaken.
Products are resistant to temperature extremes. They can be kept in the refrigerator, warmed up in the microwave. Moreover, products from this series are breathable. When closed, the container is absolutely sealed. However, if you want air to enter the container, you just need to open the valve in the lid. The shapes and sizes of containers are different. There are also models with a plastic grill inside for especially delicate products.
The Keep'N series is represented by containers that are most convenient to store. They can be easily stacked on top of each other and take up very little space. These models are not suitable for transferring liquid dishes, but they allow heating in the microwave and storage in the refrigerator.
Color solutions
Luminarc presents products in a wide range of shades. Connoisseurs of strict classics can find white, black, gray products here. Lovers of bright colors can choose items in rich reds, blues, greens, turquoise, purples, oranges, yellows. Romantic ladies are offered dishes made in delicate shades of pink and blue. Moreover, each color is presented in all the variety of halftones.
Some products combine several shades at once. At the same time, color combinations are always harmonious and effective. And, of course, all categories of tableware are also presented with completely transparent products.
How to distinguish from a fake?
Today, many manufacturers produce cookware that resembles the appearance of a Luminarc product. However, the quality of such items differs markedly from the original. To be sure that you have a French brand dish in front of you, you should pay attention to some points.
- Emblem. The original tableware always has a brand name. It can be embossed on the material or printed on the product using indelible ink. It is usually located on the bottom or inner side.
- Appearance of the material. There should be no irregularities, air bubbles and other defects. Branded dishes are always even and smooth.
- The quality of the drawing. If the item has a print, it should be clear and evenly colored.
- Price. A suspiciously low cost may indicate that this is a fake.
Also try to purchase goods from trusted suppliers who have been selling Luminarc cookware for a long time.
Selection recommendations
When choosing dishes, you should focus on a few points.
- Purpose. Deep plates are used to serve pasta. Plates of medium depth are suitable for potatoes and other main courses. For soup - bouillon. For salads - containers of the same name. For fruits, pieces of cake - dessert plates. For ice cream - bowls. It is not difficult to choose wine glasses for a certain type of alcohol, since they are divided into groups on the website of the official online store.
- Number of items. Here it is worth considering the number of people in the family. It is also worth considering if you often host large feasts with a large number of guests. It is desirable that there are enough identical devices for everyone.
- Design. It all depends on personal taste.If in doubt, you can take snow-white dishes without decor. It is always appropriate and never gets bored.
Operation and care
As already mentioned, there are no special recommendations for the use of Luminarc cookware. Handling it does not require special care, although you should not specifically expose it to strong blows. You should also read the instructions for each product and use it only for its intended purpose (as already mentioned, you cannot put plates in the oven, and heat-resistant forms - on the stove).
All items can be easily cleaned with conventional products. They can be washed either by hand or in the dishwasher.
Overview of interesting sets
The range of the brand is huge. Let's consider several original options.
Connoisseurs of sophisticated romance will love the Diwali Cyrus set of 44 pieces. The image of fern leaves on frosted glass looks stylish and incredibly delicate. The dusty shades create a dreamy mood, and the modernity of the forms makes the service very relevant.
Creative people who prefer a riot of colors will appreciate the Brush Mania plate set for 6 persons. Orange, red and green colors harmoniously coexist in one set, uplifting and making every day brighter.
Customers looking for bold contrasts can opt for the Trianon Modern 19-piece table set. The combination of black and white always looks trendy. At the same time, the dishes can be combined with any color of the tablecloth and other serving items.
And here is an example of a great set of cookware with a saucepan. The Sixties service is decorated in the spirit of abstract patchwork patterns. Plates, salad bowls, tea couples, a large dish and a saucepan, made in the original red-gray-white color scheme, look very attractive. The set is for 6 persons. A glass pan with a lid can be used both in the microwave and in the oven (at t up to 200 degrees).
Review overview
Most users are delighted with Luminarc cookware. Products serve them for more than one year, without losing their attractiveness and their properties. The material is resistant to scratches, chips, cracks. Some even consider it unbreakable, since after accidentally falling to the floor, the object remained unharmed.
Wherein the owners of the sets and individual items of the brand note their lightness, convenience and great design. It is pleasant to eat from such dishes, it is not a shame to put it on the festive table. It is easy to clean, withstands high temperatures and generally delights customers.
However, despite the fact that almost everyone recognizes Luminarc products as an example of an excellent ratio of affordable price and good quality, there are reviews on the network about the strange "behavior" of some products. There are cases when glass simply exploded for no apparent reason, scattering into small fragments. The reason for this situation can only be a violation of production technology. It is not known whether the “dangerous” dishes were branded or fake.
For an overview of Luminarc cookware, see the following video.