Traditional Crystal Chandelier Styles, Cutting Techniques, and Finish Options

Are you confused about what type of crystal chandelier should you place over your dining table or in the foyer? Well, you are not alone. We hope that the below information should clear some of this confusion and give you a better understanding of the different types of chandeliers and their use. Happy Reading

Maria Theresa Chandelier

– These types of crystal chandeliers are typically made of brass or iron frames and plated with 18Karat or in some instances with 24Karat gold. The frames themselves look more like cage style and they are dressed either with hand-cut crystals or machine-cut crystals which look like maple tree and apple tree leaves. These crystals are referred to as “teardrop crystals” today.

Glass Chandeliers

– Styles of these glass chandeliers mostly resemble the chandeliers in the 19th and 20th Century European palaces. They are made of glass bodies and scroll glass arms. Usually fitted with incandescent candle bulbs also known as “chandelier bulbs”. In the olden days, the glass scroll arms were handmade by skilled craftsmen but recently these parts are manufactured by machines. Perfect for over a dining room table, living room, or in a foyer.

Gold & Chrome Plated Chandeliers

– Since most chandeliers are made of iron and steel, to avoid corrosion, they are often plated with anti-corrosion elements, such as gold, or chrome on their metal parts. The gold plating adds an incredible glamour to these crystal chandeliers and protects them against corrosion from the weather. Some chandeliers are also lacquered coated after the plating process to add additional protection and soft glow.

Empire Crystal Chandelier

– The genuine representation of grandeur and wealth. Empire crystal chandeliers are the true statement of glamour. These amazing works of art are dressed with the most exquisite crystal beads that sparkle like diamonds. The dazzling effect of the crystals on Empire chandeliers are unmatched by any other.

Versailles Chandeliers

– Recent designs inspired by the Chandeliers in The Versailles Palace in France. These types of chandeliers are made of metal skeleton and resemble cages. They are dressed in large size crystals what’s called the “French Pendeloque Crystals”. Often have the old French antique or gold leaf finish. Not to be confused with the French Baccarat chandeliers which are all made of glass.

Bohemian Crystal Chandeliers

– Totally inspired by the old European designs dating back to the 18th and 19th century the Czech Republic the old Bohemia. Bohemian crystal chandeliers were often fitted with candles in the past until the electrification in the 20th century. With the development of the wires and bulbs in the early 20th century, these chandeliers were refitted with cables and sockets to illuminate the European Palaces and Castles.

Italian Murano Chandeliers

– The famous Murano glass chandeliers or also known as Venetian Chandeliers are manufactured in a town called Murano in Italy. Italian Murano crystal is a blown glass that is mixed with beautiful vivid colors such as blue, red, orange, and green while the glass is still in a very hot liquid state. Amazing glassworks are the representatives of exquisite chandelier designs that reflects European elegance.

Ottoman-Turkish Crystal Chandeliers

– The very ornate and dark bronze metal finishes are unique to Turkish chandelier designs. They are often fitted with colored glasses to add a nice contrast to the dark bronze look that they have. Most of these are still hand-made by craftsmen in Istanbul Turkey. The Ottoman chandeliers are dressed with colorful glass beads and available with 110V or 220V versions for different markets.

Tip: Electrical Requirements and Components
The electrical components for chandeliers differ from country to country. Electricity voltage is different in different countries. Please check the requirements of your country before purchasing your crystal chandelier to make sure it is approved for use in your location.