Choosing A Candle Chandelier

Prior to the 18th century when gas lit lamps took the place of candles as a primary source of light, a candle chandelier was a sign of luxury, class and royalty.  Although we have the convenience of electricity today to power our lives, it is still wonderfully reminiscent and romantic to utilize candle light from a candle chandelier for special occasions.  Many of today’s candle chandeliers have been retrofitted to use either real pillar or tea light candles, or low maintenance flameless candles.  The candle chandelier of the medieval age was built purely for function out of wood crosses.  Modern candle chandeliers are built primarily for aesthetic appeal and beauty.  Nothing creates the comfortable and romantic environment like the flicker of a flame, and the right candle chandelier for your room can provide plenty of light for the evening’s events.

Candle Chandelier Sizes

The size of your candle chandelier will depend entirely on the size of room you intend on illuminating, and the level of light that you wish to have.  Most home units can hold between 6-12 candles at one time which would provide plenty of light for a romantic dinner for two.  However there are commercial units available that are used in restaurants or hotels which can hold 24 candles or more.  These types candle chandeliers can cost as much as $5,000, however you can find one perfectly suitable for your home for well under $100 dollars.  In any candle chandelier installation, you should be certain that you use non-drip, or “dripless” candles to ensure the safety of all of your guests.

Candle Chandelier Styles

Since the primary purpose of the candle chandelier is to add beauty and charm to your home, entire industries have been developed to satisfy the demand for different styles of chandeliers.  When choosing a style, pick something that will look good even when not lit during the day.  Remember that you’ll have to look at your candle chandelier unlit most of the time.  Some of the bestselling styles include:

• Wrought Iron - By far the most popular candle chandelier is made with a dark bronzed wrought iron design.  The complex iron shape gives character and depth to any room, and is a piece of art in itself without being lit.  Glass votive holders are also common to accent this type of design.  The strength of the wrought iron allows the unit to suspend candles effortlessly in mid air creating a focal point out of each flickering flame.
• Brass – Many people find it reminiscent to buy older style brass fixtures when choosing a candle chandelier.  In the right environment, brass chandeliers can tie a room together making for an elegant and classy decor.
• Crystal - For those that can afford the luxurious expense, crystal candle chandeliers create a magical sparkle as the flames reflect and refract in every direction.  Finding a quality crystal candle chandelier can be a challenge, but for those who succeed, it was well worth the cost and effort.