What does CRI stand for in lighting?

The term CRI stands for Color Rendering Index. This index is a metric used to evaluate how accurately a light source displays colors in comparison to a natural light source, such as sunlight. A higher CRI value indicates that the light source renders colors more realistically, which is particularly important in applications where color discrimination is crucial, such as in art studios, retail spaces, and medical facilities.

Testing and standards for CRI are based on a scale from 0 to 100, where a score of 100 signifies that colors appear true to life under that lighting. This concept is essential for professionals in the lighting industry, as it directly impacts how lighting choices influence the perception of spaces and objects. Understanding CRI assists lighting designers in selecting appropriate light sources to ensure that the colors of surfaces and materials are accurately represented in the intended environment.