Obviously, there is no light source more brilliant in its appeal than the illumination of a chandelier. Due to their wonderful qualities and aesthetics, chandeliers have evolved as necessary accessories added in many luxury hotels, elegant restaurants, high-end corporate offices and homes. They are available in an abundance of types and finishes, combining sophisticated form and function to suit a wide range of environments. In many cases, modern chandeliers provide lighting with the use of standard electric bulbs and even electric candles, but there are also vintage chandeliers using gas lamps and wax candles that are still in use to this day.
Among the myriads of chandeliers to choose from, crystal chandeliers remain the most popular preference. These chandeliers are constructed of cut glass pieces that hang gracefully from the arms of the chandelier. Crystals reflect light easily and the lights they reflect often produce sparkling effects, making them visibly more entertaining. Crystal chandeliers were popularized by the European elite and wealthy Americans during the 1920s and 1930s.
Bead shell chandeliers are popular contemporary chandelier fixtures designed from beads and shells. The most common type of shell used for these chandelier pieces is the Capiz shell, which is commonly known as a mother-of-pearl shell. Bead shell chandeliers often cast soft lights, making them more preferable for use in fine dining restaurants. They are also commonly placed near pictures and paintings to highlight these interior items.
Murano glass chandeliers are contemporary chandeliers that originated in Murano, Italy, which is considered to be the world capital of glassblowing. These luminaires denote a specific chandelier design that often has curved and tubular shapes, made exclusively from Murano blown glass. Because glass can be molded into various shapes, Murano chandeliers are often used with floral motifs and other intricate figures, and usually come in pastel shades. Using different colors in these chandeliers allows them to cast unique and creative light effects.
On the other hand, antler chandeliers, as the name suggests, are derived from the dumb antlers of deer, moose, or elk. These chandelier lighting fixtures are commonly used in western style homes such as log cabins and ranch residences. You can set a rustic appeal within your living space just by hanging an antler chandelier from the ceiling. If you can’t afford a genuine antler chandelier piece, you can opt for an imitation antler chandelier made from plastic fibers, designed to resemble the original antlers.
Candle holders made from metals like brass, brushed nickel, and wrought iron are elegant pieces that resonate with the rich history of the past. Antique candle holders made from metals used to hold candles instead of electric bulbs have been around since the 15th century, though they have been reinvented in different finishes over the centuries. Antique metal candle holders are among the most expensive lighting fixtures today and can cost up to $60,000 due to their rarity and origin, making them collector’s items. If you want to save energy and have the right budget, you can always go for an antique metal chandelier.
