This was a great purchase. Even though the shades are made of plastic, the lamp is very functional and nice looking. It is especially convenient to have the ability to direct the beam of light in which direction you need. By keeping one pointed up to the ceiling, it projects a good amount of light. We keep the other projected downward towards the table and it give a more subdued light. It is almost like a 3 way light depending on which one is switched on or if both are switched on.