Originally developed in South Africa as a way to bring light to areas without electricity, the ingenious Sonnenglas is now available in the US for the first time. Simple but clever – like all genius ideas – the mason jar features four solar-powered LEDs on the top and a magnetic switch. To use, you need to leave the jar outside to soak up the sunlight and then switch the LEDs on as needed. Owners can also customize the jars with dried flowers and fruit, sand and seashells, or anything else they can think of. The soft light is bright enough for reading, but Sonnenglas shines as a camping, garden and patio light or as tabletop centerpiece. A perfect companion for get-togethers with friends and dining under the stars on warm summer nights.
High-tech and green at the same time, Sonnenglas has an impressive reputation in its country of origin. It is handmade in South Africa with up to 70% local materials, has created steady jobs locally and has already won five design awards. Available now on the brand’s official website, the mason jar light costs $34.80 with US shipping included. Images courtesy of Sonnenglas.