There’s an abundance of candle options on the market — from under $10 to nearly $1000. But what exactly makes one candle cost more than another? And are expensive candles truly worth it?
Let’s unpack what goes into that higher price tag — and why premium candles can offer far more than just scent.
Ingredient Quality: What You Burn Matters
Lower-priced candles are typically made with cost-cutting materials:
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Cheap synthetic fragrance oils
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Paraffin wax — a petroleum byproduct that can release soot and toxins
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Inexpensive wicks that may burn unevenly or too quickly
Luxury candles, on the other hand, use:
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Coconut-soy or beeswax blends for a cleaner burn
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High-quality fragrance oils, often infused with essential oils
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Better wicks and precise formulations for an even burn
At Soja, we only use:
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Coconut-soy wax
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IFRA-approved fragrance oils
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Crystals for added intention
Each element is chosen for performance, safety, and energy.
Scent Throw & Scent Complexity
You get what you pay for when it comes to fragrance.
Premium candles offer multi-layered scent profiles with top, middle, and base notes — like a fine perfume. The fragrance fills your space and lingers without being overpowering.
Cheaper candles often:
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Fade quickly
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Smell artificial or overly strong
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Lack scent structure
Scent throw is a big differentiator. Luxury candles are formulated to disperse aroma both unlit and while burning.
🕯️ Burn Experience
A clean, even burn is not an accident — it’s a science.
Premium candles are tested for:
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Wick type and placement
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Burn time and wax pool performance
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Minimal soot and tunneling
Soja candles, for example, offer up to 75 hours of burn time with beautiful scent dispersion and calming crystal energy.
The Bottom Line
Expensive candles may cost more upfront — but they deliver a longer-lasting, cleaner, and more luxurious experience.
When you choose a premium candle, you're investing in:
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Healthier ingredients
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Better scent performance
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Longer burn time
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Intention and energy (especially in crystal-infused candles)
Shop the Experience
Discover what premium really feels like with our best-selling crystal-infused candles:
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Or browse the full Core Collection
You’ll smell and feel the difference — from the first burn.