Most shows specify a pair of candles.They must match each other in all respects (size, same batch of wax, wick etc & symmetry). The quality of the beeswax must be as high as you would enter in any of the wax classes ie Ccean with no visible impurities, good aroma typical of fresh beeswax, good light colour (between light cream and bright yellow), not dark or contaminated by propolis and no evidence of layering.
Judge will check the candle for damage, lightly rub the surface of the candle and assess the aroma of the wax, look for any debris/impurities on the surface and within the candle (a powerful torch is used to shine through the candle exposing debris within), and also examine the base of the candle which should be finished, not left uneven or with cavities due to shrinkage. The wick must be of the correct thickness for the size of candle. Wick should be waxed so that it stands well and is easy to light. The wick should be central throughout the candle & visible at the base. (the judge will look at the position of the wick in the base as well as at the top)
In most candle classes the judge will light one of the pair and watch them at intervals over a period of time (eg 30 mins). The judge will assess ease of lighting (if wick not wax impregnated the wick may go out before the flame reaches the wax of the candle) and if size of flame commensurate with size of candle . If wick too thin you get guttering (molten wax runs down the side of the candle). If wick too thick get smoking. Cleanliness of the wax can also be assessed from the “dirt” collecting in the molten pool.
Does the candle burn to give off a good even light, without sputtering or flaring (the result of impurities in the wax)
As it burns the wick should bend over enough for its tip to burn off with a central flame but not curl too much so that the candle melts quicker on one side and "gutters" (drips wax). Judge will blow out the candle and observe how long it glows for (no longer than 10 - 20 secs or it will consume the wick and affect relighting later and also note if it smokes after being blown out?
After allowing the candle to cool the Judge will relight the candle and observe if it relights easily & burn properly after being re-lit
Hope the above helps.
