A high-efficiency LED lamp is disclosed. Embodiments of the invention provide a high-efficiency, high output solid-state lamp. The lamp includes an LED assembly, an optical element disposed to receive light from the LED assembly, and an optical overlay. The optical element includes a primary exit surface, wherein the primary exit surface is at least about 1.5 inches from the LED assembly. In example embodiments, the optical element is roughly cylindrical in shape, but can take other shapes and be made from various materials. An LED lamp according to some embodiments of the invention has an efficiency of at least about 160 lumens per watt. In some embodiments, the lamp has a light output of at least 1200 lumens. In some embodiments, the LED lamp produces light with a color rendering index (CRI) of at least 90 and a warm white color.