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Identifying The Parts Of Your Crystal Chandelier

by Wyatt Fisk

Modern chandeliers have always enticed our visuals over the years. In fact, luxurious hotels, homes and restaurants would not be complete without these ceiling fixtures that truly add appeal to their interior designs. However, more than the emphasis we give on their aesthetics, it is also imperative to comprehend their parts in order to utilize chandeliers to their full extent. Although every chandelier has their own distinct qualities, most of them share the same parts which if properly understood would make it easier for chandelier owners to fix them and locate their problems.

Modern chandeliers are very nice fixtures that could truly create wonders to enhance interior appearance. However, wouldn't we appreciate these pieces more if they are properly functioning because every part of them are doing their responsibilities? Knowing the parts of your chandelier requires more than being aware what their names are but it is more important to realize that they have individual responsibilities. While most manufacturers would provide you with manuals on how to install these lighting fixtures, they do not necessarily provide you any information about the parts of your chandelier and their importance.

As crystal chandelier is perhaps the most common chandelier design in use today, it is best to identify its parts and their functions. To begin with, the main feature of a crystal lighting fixture is the crystal itself. Basically, crystal pieces serves as the primary accents of chandeliers. These natural stones may come in different sizes and cuts; some pieces used for chandeliers may be expensive and clear, others might be economical and colorful.

The arms are the next major parts of a chandelier that extends from its body then branching outwards to establish an intricate look for the lighting piece. It serves as the primary holder for all the miscellaneous parts of the chandelier. They are usually made from metals such as brass or wrought iron, which is commonly seen from wrought iron chandelier fixtures, while some grandiose chandeliers have arms that are made from glass and other synthetic materials. Traditional chandelier arms are often shaped in an S pattern, but more contemporary ones take more complicated forms like swirls and the likes.

The candle is part of a crystal chandelier that functions as the light producer. For traditional chandeliers, candles may actually refer to wax candles, while for contemporary chandeliers candles refer to the bulbs located at the end of the chandelier arms. Such candles are held by candle cups, which serves either as drip catcher for wax candles and decorative finish for bulbs. Chandelier candles further accentuate crystal pieces by reflecting the lights they produce towards these stones.

Aside from the crystal, arms and candles, a crystal chandelier also has other miscellaneous parts that are all crucial to keep it up and running. The socket, bulbs and converters are electrical parts that helps the chandelier to produce light through the aid of electricity. Meanwhile, chains, canopies and collars are three parts that allow chandeliers to be suspended properly on ceilings. By being able to identify these parts and understand their functions, you will surely attend to the maintenance needs of your chandelier in a proper manner.

Modern chandeliers have always fascinated our imaginations. Their very presence inside rooms never failed to capture our attention. Though we are aware of the design prowess of chandeliers, admit it or not, most of us are unaware of their parts. No matter what type of chandelier you are using, whether it is wrought iron chandelier or crystal chandelier, it is imperative to know its parts so as to be able to immediately attend to your chandelier if it's having issues.

Published June 26th, 2010

Filed in Home, Interior Design