Pronounced "Fruh-nell, this lighting instrument is named for its Fresnel lens--a series of stepped concentric circles on the front and pebbled on the back, invented by Augustin Jean Fresnel (1788-1827).

Fresnels produce a soft edged circle of light that can zoom in size from spot to flood by changing the relationship of the lamp with the interior reflector. These simple fixtures have stood the test of time in their ability to provide basic, controllable light. They range in size from a 3" diameter lens to an 8" diameter lens.