What is the ideal use of color rendering index (CRI)?

The ideal use of the color rendering index (CRI) is to indicate how colors appear under a specific light source relative to how they would appear under natural light. CRI is a quantitative measure that ranges from 0 to 100, where a higher score indicates that the light source renders colors more accurately and vividly compared to natural daylight. This characteristic is especially important in settings where color differentiation is critical, such as in art studios, retail spaces, galleries, and medical facilities.

Evaluating the effectiveness of different light sources in accurately displaying true colors helps designers and lighting professionals select the appropriate lighting solutions for specific applications. Thus, understanding CRI is fundamental for ensuring that environments convey color in a way that meets the needs and expectations of users.