Chandelier Crystals

chandelier crystals

A Crystal Chandelier for Elegance

If your home is lacking that certain something that makes it stand out from others, or you just want to give it a bit of pizzazz, then some funky, contemporary furniture or updating the décor can achieve this. However, if you really want to achieve the ‘wow effect' that will have visitors exclaiming in delight when they step over the threshold then check out chandeliers for magnificence and sophistication.

Buying a quality brand name chandelier you are guaranteed it will last for many years as the materials used and craftsmanship involved are always of the highest quality. Some brand names to look out for are Tiffany, famous for their leaded coloured glass designs; Murano who still incorporate techniques from centuries ago; Schonbek, crystal chandelier designers for generations; Minka Lavery with their inspiring range of lighting products; and Kichler for their dazzling chandelettes.

Murano glass has been around for centuries and the name comes from where it originated, on the Venetian island of Murano. Over the years the glassmakers on the island developed various techniques used in glassblowing, such as crystalline and enamelled glass, glass with gold threads running through it, multicoloured glass, milk glass, and glass imitation gemstones. These days thousands of tourists are drawn to Murano to see skilled artisans using the same techniques they did centuries ago and to buy some beautiful art glass, figurines and glass chandeliers.

Luckily, you don't have to travel all the way to Venice to purchase one of these stunning chandeliers, just look online and you'll find plenty of choice. Choose a unique item from the extraordinary products designed in the antique tradition of Murano, all hand-crafted and blown with clear and coloured crystals.

Schonbek is another brand associated with quality, well-known for producing fine crystal chandeliers they have been designing since the 1800s. The family has an unsurpassed enthusiasm for fine crystal lighting and over the years has won many awards, some of the best creations have held pride of place in such prominent locations as Buckingham Palace and even the White House.

These days the family is committed to designing and producing decorative chandeliers and other lighting options in classic and traditional styles, in addition to incorporating their rich history into exclusive modern works of art. Dedicated to environmental sustainability they combine premium Swarovski crystal with raw materials found in the USA and have produced their own make of non-hazardous finishes.

Minka Lavery chandeliers have a range of styles that are intended to draw attention to diverse home décors. Check out the old world elegance and delicate detail of the Valenza and Salon Grand Collections designed by celebrated artist Jessica McClintock and the Illuminati Collection, motivated by the noble, traditional beauty of the timeless Hearst Castle.

Kichler have something to suit everyone, from modern to traditional mini chandeliers. Their elite line of chandelettes, otherwise known as mini chandeliers, is perfect to add a touch of glamour to your bedroom, bathroom or breakfast area. One of the world's leading lighting fixture companies they have produced quality products since 1938, and long been admired for their artistic techniques, exclusive finishes and clean colours, qualities that have won them the ‘ARTS Lighting Manufacturer of the Year' 4 times.

Crystal chandeliers can cost a fortune, an original Louis XIV drop crystal chandelier can set you back a substantial amount. Luckily there are plenty of replicas available these days, all inspired by the original designs. Manufactured in basic metals, such as iron, brass, or copper, and then electro plated in gold, silver, or even chrome, these can be fairly heavy items and need a solid ceiling to accommodate them. There are lots of lighter options too with thousands of designs incorporating crystals and coloured glass.

To find an extensive collection of crystal chandelier or something more dramatic, such as a black chandelier, just browse online, go shopping at home improvement stores, or look for a lighting company in your area. There are thousands of ready-made designs on the internet or find a company that can custom-make to your own specifications if you have the finances. Before making any purchase check you know what size will be most effective for the type, and nature of the room it is to accommodate.

About the Author

Kathryn Dawson writes articles for Amazing Chandeliers, renowned masters of interior style and elegance based in the UK supplying a luxurious selection of crystal chandelier lighting products, from Swarovski to Strass crystals including the latest in contemporary lighting designs from around the world. Explore premier
black chandelier
products that are gothic and glamorous, or their collection of
crystal chandeliers
which are timeless and classic.

How to Clean Your Crystal Chandelier

Cleaning your Chandelier

Chandeliers can be the focal point of whatever room they are in. They can bring elegance and beauty to living rooms, dining rooms, entrance halls and more. However, if not taken care of and cleaned properly, these beautiful lighting fixtures can also take away from the room they are in.

Due to intricate nature of many chandeliers, people are reluctant to clean and care for them properly until it is absolutely necessary. 

Cleaning your chandelier should be a planned event so that you are not rushed. Care needs to be taken so that crystals are not dropped and damaged. Two generally approved methods of cleaning would be wet cleaning with a cleaner or dry cleaning with a feather duster or dry cloth. 

Dry cleaning should be carefully done an least once every 2 months. Generally it would be good advise to follow the manufacturers instructions for your particular chandelier. If using a wet cleaner it is important to be sure the cleaner will not damage the surface of your chandelier. 

If you have a particularly ornate chandelier you might consider contacting a lighting store for assistance in locating a professional to clean your chandelier.

 If you choose to clean the chandelier yourself there are some safety guidelines you should follow:

1. Turn off the electricity at a breaker box to prevent electrocution.

2. Plug in another light from a different power supply to make sure you have enough light to properly do the job.

3. Use a properly sized ladder if needed to you can access all areas of the chandelier safely.

4. Place a soft blanket covered by a sheet of plastic drop cloth under the chandelier. The plastic sheeting will catch any dripping from cleaning solution and the soft blanket will provide a safety net should one of the crystals fall.

5. Take out all bulbs from the fixture and set them aside.

6. Lay a towel at the bottom of a sink or dish tub and half fill with warm soapy water.

7. Fill a large container with hot clean water and a towel for rinsing the crystals.

8. One section at a time, remove the crystal saucers and drops from the chandelier, clean then rinse them. Use a soft soapy cloth to clean the frame and replace the saucers and drops.

9. Repeat this process until the chandelier has been thoroughly cleaned.

10. Gently clean the bulbs and replace them in the sockets.

 Be sure the chandelier is thoroughly dry before restoring power to the fixture.

For more information about these beautiful lighting fixtures, please visit us at http://www.fantasylandlighting.com

About the Author

Manufacturing plant manager with a background in remodeling construction, gemology and sales.

Charley Pride - Crystal Chandelier

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