In the late 19th century, two Parisian factory workers, a Frenchman named Andre Blondell and a Turk named Mr. Psaroudaki, came upon the idea of enhancing the illuminating effects of gas lights by enclosing them in crystal glass globes. After refining their idea and detailing its design on paper in 1895 they were awarded France's patent number 563836 and formed a new firm,
Holophane Company of France. The Company eventually landed in Newark, Ohio where it remains to this day. The original lights are highly prized and make great focal points for kitchen islands, pub tables or restaurant interiors.