What is in a Jar?

What’s in a scented candle jar?

So much attention is given to the fragrance and wax of an Aerangis scented candle, but the packaging has its own story and significance. Every detail - from how and where the jars are made to the color and design - was thoughtfully considered when we set out to launch Aerangis. Not satisfied with the typical glass or metal tin, we wanted our jars to not only be beautiful - sleek and modern - but also meaningful to the brand.

Our discovery.

It was on a trip home to Taiwan that we stumbled across the Shuili Snake Kiln, a historic kiln built in 1927. It gets its name because of its long, snake-like shape built into a hillside — just shy of 100 feet long. Unlike modern kilns, which operate by gas and electric, the Snake Kiln uses the traditional method of burning wood. The ash produced as part of the process falls into the pottery, creating rich color variations and a more rustic look.

Why history (and tradition) matter to us.

Seeing this process in action was an epiphany for me. Why? Aerangis began with a memory of my grandfather’s garden in Taiwan. Having the jars for our scented candles created by a Taiwanese kiln steeped in tradition seemed like a poignant way to honor our brand’s roots. It’s a forgotten part of Taiwanese culture that we would like to re-introduce to the world.  

But, there’s another reason I felt compelled to source the jars through this kiln: to pay homage to the handmade aspect of this craft. These days, most products are made in a factory assembly line; but, having our scented candle jars made at this historical kiln puts a human touch into the process and supports the long-lost craftsmanship behind these ceramic products. Because they’re handmade, one jar may be slightly different than the next—each having its own unique story of craftmanship. There’s so much beauty in these slight nuances; they’re what make these jars more like a work of art than a mass-produced product. Masters teach their very specific skillset to the younger generation. By partnering with this traditional kiln, we’re helping to keep this art alive.

So, what’s in a scented candle jar?

For Aerangis, the answer is beauty, tradition, and a handcrafted work of art that ties back to our Taiwanese beginnings.