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.