Chandeliers are considered the elite in lighting fixtures. A chandelier is a ceiling-mounted lighting fixture that is often ornate in its design with two or more arms. Chandeliers have dozens of lights that have either glass or crystal prisms that illuminates a room with refracted light.

The use of the chandelier dates back to medieval times which were used in places of assembly. They were constructed like wooden crosses with a number of spikes in which several candles could be placed being hoisted to a secure rope or chain suspended from a hook. It was the earliest example of a candle chandelier.

Particularly from the 15th century onward did chandeliers become more complex and ornate in design. They were produced with crown and ring designs, which became the popular trend of the time. They were generally found in the homes and palaces of the nobility, clergy and growing merchant class. Because of the high cost of night time illumination, they were considered the symbols of luxury and status.

By the 18th century, developments in the glass making industry made it possible to allow the cheaper production of lead crystal, which because of its refracted light also allowed for better chandelier lighting. This led to the development of the crystal chandelier.

By the 19th century, as gas light became a common source of illumination, branched ceiling fixtures were produced; for a time the chandelier was known as the gasolier, a word combination of gas and chandelier, because it was illuminated by gaslight. By the 1890s, chandeliers were illuminated by both electricity and gas.

Toward the end of the 20th century and the early years of the 21st century the chandelier is used more as a decorative focal point or piece more and may not necessarily give any illumination.

The chandelier light is a thing of beauty and is a breath-taking sight to behold. There are different types of chandeliers. There is the neoclassical style, called the Adam style. and then there is the Bohemian Crystal, which was a gift from Queen Victoria, which is the largest in the world. And there is the candelabra, which though not an actual chandelier, is a portable chandelier-of-sorts, that is basically designed to stand on tables. For example, the 1950s TV pianist Liberace used a candelabra on his show.

The chandelier has come a long way from being a primitive, cross-like fixture hoisted by a rope or chain to becoming an object of artistry and beauty.

Where To Buy A Chandelier
For the best selection in chandeliers and the widest range of styles available, check the small electrical lighting suppliers in most any town. The advantage of purchasing from a local electrical lighting supplier is in the service and the quality of their products. These suppliers may purchase their chandeliers from large manufacturers. Of course, there are also many hand-wrought chandeliers made directly on site. Generally, these chandeliers are quite unique in design. The styles may range from abstract to traditional. Hand-wrought chandeliers are found in craft villages that specialize in designated crafting shops.

Large Box Stores That Sell Chandeliers
In addition to small electrical lighting suppliers, many large box stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot also have separate lighting departments that supply chandeliers. Most are reasonably priced for fast sale. There are brand name chandeliers available for purchase in these larger emporiums. However, it may be necessary to check whether installation is available. If installation is not available, this will mean engaging a professional electrician to install the electrical wiring as well.

Buying Chandeliers Online
One of the most convenient methods of shopping for the perfect chandelier is online. It’s probably a good idea to review the websites of businesses that sell chandeliers and make comparisons before committing to buy. Online shopping has the advantage of presenting the manufacturers, model numbers and design details that make it easy to compare chandeliers. In addition, online shopping for chandeliers provides a bit of education about the various types of materials from which chandeliers are constructed. This makes a final decision to buy easier.

Check Classifieds For Chandelier Sales
Very often, the classified ads of most newspapers contain a section where household items are sold. This is another place to look for a good buy on chandeliers. The classifieds list electrical suppliers, antique chandelier dealers and also used chandeliers.

Chandelier lighting has many choices. You can have many types of chandeliers. These can be made out of many metals as well as wood and glass. I have even seen antlers used in a chandelier light fixture. These light fixtures come in sizes for ballrooms to mini chandeliers. Chandeliers are generally powered by electricity. There is a candle chandelier as well.

There are famous crystal chandeliers that you have seen in movies. A crystal chandelier has crystal glass pieces in its design. These used to be very popular in foyers and large living rooms. Chandeliers today can be very fancy to very simple in design. They can come in many metal finishes. A chandeliers lighting can come from a few bulbs or many bulbs.

An outdoor chandelier makes quite an impression. These chandeliers are not very common. There are a few places where you see them.

Some of these light fixtures have painted characteristics. A black chandelier is the most common painted color for these light fixtures. In these modern fixtures any color is a possibility. A chandelier accents your room. With today’s options you can be more creative when choosing a light fixture. You can make a statement with a chandelier.

There are chandeliers that have shades and some that leave their bulbs exposed. Chandelier shades can have fancy designs or etchings in them. They also can be painted in many different ways. A shade for a chandelier can be as unique as the chandelier.

A chandelier is a focal point in a room. They generally set the trend used throughout the home or building. The designs and finishes have changed through the years. A modern edgy design in a classic light fixture. Elegance is the one word to describe a light fixture like this. You can find them in almost any home store and there is a broad selection of them on line.