When it comes to backlighting, most people immediately think of onyx or quartzite—but the world of illuminated surfaces goes far beyond these well-known stones. Whether you’re an interior designer, stone fabricator, or homeowner looking for a show-stopping feature, these five unusual materials can transform a space when paired with high-quality LED light panels.
1. Himalayan Salt Panels – A Natural Glow with Wellness Benefits
Himalayan salt panels, made from natural salt crystals mined in Pakistan, have been used for centuries for their warm, ambient glow. Backlighting these panels creates a stunning visual effect, often seen in high-end spas, luxury restaurants, and wellness retreats. The soft, diffused light enhances the space while also being known for its air-purifying properties.
📌 Best For: Wellness spaces, feature walls, spa interiors
🔗 Learn more: Himalayan Salt Panels
2. Lucem Translucent Concrete with embedded Optical Fibers
Translucent Concrete illuminated
Lucem is a cutting-edge translucent concrete that integrates optical fibers, allowing light to pass through while maintaining the strength and durability of traditional concrete. When backlit, it creates a striking visual effect, making it a perfect material for countertops, feature walls, and architectural elements. Lucem combines modern design with innovative lighting solutions, offering a unique way to enhance any space.
📌 Best For: Backlit countertops, illuminated facades, wall panels, luxury design projects
🔗 Learn more: https://www.lucem.com/
3. Luminoso – The Future of Light-Transmitting Wood
Wood and light don’t typically go hand in hand—but Luminoso changes that. This patented material embeds optical fibers into solid wood panels, allowing light to shine through while maintaining the natural wood aesthetic. When backlit, it reveals patterns, logos, or subtle glows that bring warmth to modern and rustic interiors alike.
📌 Best For: Bars, feature walls, retail displays
🔗 Learn more: Luminoso Light-Transmitting Wood
4. Alabaster – The Soft Glow of Natural Translucent Gypsum
Alabaster, a naturally translucent gypsum, has been used for centuries in sculptures and luxury decor. When paired with backlighting, its delicate veining and soft glow elevate countertops, wall panels, and high-end lighting installations. Its natural warmth makes it a timeless choice for elegant spaces.
📌 Best For: Luxury countertops, wall features, lighting installations
🔗 Learn more: Alabaster Translucent Gypsum
5. ThinkGlass – Sculpted, Ultra-Thick Glass
ThinkGlass is a high-end glass material designed for countertops, backsplashes, and wall-mounted installations. Available in custom thicknesses up to 4 inches, it features unique textures and frosted finishes that enhance light diffusion, making it perfect for backlit applications. Its durability and scratch resistance make it ideal for both residential and commercial spaces.
📌 Best For: Backlit countertops, illuminated bar tops, feature walls, luxury design projects
🔗 Learn more: https://www.thinkglass.com/
Unlock the Full Potential of Backlit Design
Each of these materials comes to life when paired with ultra-thin LED light panels. At Nu World, we’ve spent over 15 years perfecting the simplest and most effective way to backlight any translucent surface. Our frameless LED panels are custom-built to fit seamlessly beneath stone, glass, or specialty materials—eliminating bulky lightboxes and complex installations.
Want to explore more? Click below to download our backlighting brochures and spec sheets to see how easy it is to bring these materials to life.
Download the Nu World LED Light Panel Brochure – HERE
Download the Nu World LED Light Panel Specs – HERE
Have a project in mind? Contact us today to discuss your custom backlighting needs!