The color rendering index (CRI or IRC)


The color rendering index (CRI or IRC)

color effect

The color rendering index (CRI) is a fairly simple concept characterizing the ability of a light source to restore all the colors of the visible spectrum. The IRC of a light source is expressed in the form of a number ranging from 0 to 100, where 100 indicates a perfect light spectrum, ie encompassing the entire visible spectrum. Therefore, this means that this light source makes all the colors exactly. The lower the number, the lower the amount of color returned.



Illustration of the IRC


Examples of the light spectrum of different IRC

The less the source emits distinct wavelengths, the lower the value of its CRI. As a result, fewer shades of color may be able to be reflected from objects lit by this light source. Concretely this means that the objects will lose some color details. When we compare several sources of electrical light, we can see that the ability to render colors (CRI and corresponding values) varies considerably from one source to another.

The color rendering index (CRI) according to the type of bulb

Bulbs with an IRC below 70 are relatively poor and are unimaginable for critical color decision making. These sources include:

  • ·         Fluorescent light sources with a CRI of 60
  • ·         low-pressure sodium vapor lamps (road and motorway lighting)
  • ·         clear mercury lamps (IRC ~ 15)
  • ·         Fluorescent tubes "white industry" or "universal white", source of pale complexions.
  • ·         Light sources with an IRC value between 70 and 90 shows the colors satisfactorily.


·         Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 70 <IRC <90, you can find these LED bulbs here.
·         fluorescent tubes (IRC up to 90 for some)
·         Light sources with an IRC value greater than 90 offer very accurate colors and are suitable for environments with critical colors and precision work:

·         high-fidelity light-emitting diodes (LEDs) (IRC> 90)
·         some metal halide lamps (IRC up to 95)
·         Incandescent sources such as conventional or halogen bulbs emit the entire visible spectrum, so they have a CRI of 100.
As for the discharge lamps, they display a different CRI according to the gas present in the bulb and the fluorescent powder lining the inner wall of the tube.

Which color rendering index to choose?

For all domestic or office use, it is advisable to choose to light with an IRC> 70. For precision use or with a need in color rendering (stores, precision work) then it is necessary to opt for lamps with an IRC> 80. For stores requiring a very faithful rendering, an IRC> 90 is required.

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