Table of Contents
Key Takeaways: ShawTech vs Gemstone Lighting
- Gemstone Lighting is a premium, professionally installed system
- ShawTech offers a similar end result at a much lower cost
- The biggest difference is installation vs DIY
- ShawTech is designed to simplify the DIY process
- Most people are deciding if the higher price is actually worth it
ShawTech vs Gemstone Lighting: Key Differences
| Feature | ShawTech Lighting | Gemstone Lighting |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ~$9–$12 per foot | ~$20–$40 per foot |
| Installation | DIY | Professional |
| Appearance | Clean, professional look | Clean, professional look |
| Effort | Moderate | None |
| Support | Direct help if needed | Install handled for you |
ShawTech vs Gemstone Lighting: What’s the Real Difference?
If you’re comparing ShawTech vs Gemstone Lighting, you’re probably looking at a higher-end lighting system and wondering if there’s a way to get the same result without paying that kind of price.
Both options are designed to give your home clean, permanent lighting along the roofline. The difference comes down to how it’s installed and how much you’re paying for that process.
What Is Gemstone Lighting?
Gemstone Lighting is positioned as a more premium option in the permanent lighting space. Like other installation-based companies, everything is handled for you.
A team installs the system on your home, usually custom-fit to the roofline. Once it’s in, you control the lights through an app for different colors, holidays, or everyday use.
It’s a polished experience. You’re paying for a finished product without needing to think about how it gets there.
What Is ShawTech Lighting?
ShawTech is built for homeowners who want that same clean look but don’t want to pay for installation.
Instead of sourcing parts individually, everything comes together in a complete kit. That means you’re not trying to figure out what components you need or how they all connect.
There’s also support behind it. If something doesn’t make sense during installation, you’re not stuck guessing your way through it.
Cost Comparison: ShawTech vs Gemstone Lighting
This is usually where the difference becomes clear.
Gemstone Lighting installations often land somewhere between $5,000 and $10,000 depending on the size of the home. That includes the product, labor, and the full installation process.
ShawTech setups tend to be much lower. Most homeowners end up around $1,500 to $3,000 for a similar layout.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Gemstone Lighting
- $20–$40 per foot installed
- ~$5,000–$10,000+ total
ShawTech
- ~$9–$12 per foot
- ~$1,500–$3,000 total
We’ve had people come to us after looking into premium systems like Gemstone and realizing the price difference was bigger than expected. Once you see the numbers side by side, it usually becomes a question of whether that higher cost actually adds enough value.
Do They Look the Same Once Installed?
This is the part most people care about.
Some lower-cost lighting options look uneven with wires visible and LEDs falling, which is why DIY gets a bad reputation sometimes. The difference usually comes down to how the system is installed.
With a clean install and proper spacing, the end result looks consistent and blends in well with the home. During the day it stays subtle, and at night it gives you that same roofline effect people expect from a professional setup.
Installation: What’s the Actual Difference?
With Gemstone Lighting, you’re not involved in the install. A team handles everything, from mounting the lights to setting up the system.
With ShawTech, you’re doing the installation yourself. That usually involves working on a ladder, mounting the channels, and running wiring along the roofline.
It’s not the easiest project, but most homeowners can handle it with some time and patience. The difference is that you’re not piecing it together from scratch. Everything is already laid out, and there’s guidance if you need it. If you’re into DIY projects like seen on Reddit, you’ll probably be fine. And we’re always here to help.
Most installs take a weekend or two depending on the size of the house.
Is Gemstone Lighting Worth the Price?
This is really what it comes down to.
You’re paying more for:
- Installation
- Convenience
- Not having to deal with the process
For some people, that’s worth it. They don’t want to touch a ladder or spend time on installation.
For others, the price difference is hard to ignore, especially when the end result can look very similar.
Which One is Right for You?
| Choose ShawTech if you… | Choose Gemstone Lighting if you… |
|---|---|
| Want to save a few thousand dollars | Don’t want to install anything yourself |
| Are comfortable with a DIY project | Prefer a fully hands-off experience |
| Don’t want to research parts or systems | Are fine paying more for convenience |
| Want support while installing | Just want it done for you |
Final Thoughts: ShawTech vs Gemstone Lighting
Most people comparing ShawTech vs Gemstone Lighting are trying to decide whether the convenience of a professional install is worth the added cost.
Both options get you to a similar end result. The difference is how you get there and what you’re willing to pay along the way.
FAQ: ShawTech vs Gemstone Lighting
In ShawTech vs Gemstone Lighting, which is better?
It depends on what matters more to you. Gemstone is easier since it’s fully installed. ShawTech is more cost-effective if you’re willing to handle the installation.
How much does Gemstone Lighting cost?
Gemstone Lighting typically costs between $20–$40 per foot installed, depending on the home.
Is ShawTech a good alternative to Gemstone Lighting?
For many homeowners, yes. It offers a similar result at a lower cost if you’re comfortable with DIY installation.
Is DIY permanent lighting worth it?
For homeowners willing to install it themselves, DIY permanent lighting can save a significant amount while still delivering a clean result.
Still comparing options?
If you’re trying to decide between DIY and professional lighting, these guides can help:
