Last updated on November 20th, 2022
Chandeliers originated in the middle ages as pieces of wood that held candles. As style and art changed over the centuries, crystals, metalwork, and light bulbs were slowly introduced.
Are you in the market for an antique chandelier? Buying such an extravagant light fixture is a large and often long-term purchase.
Chances are that as your style changes, your chandelier will stay put. So it’s best you choose the perfect one.
In this article, we will dive into four things you need to consider before buying the ideal fixture for your home.
Let’s get started.
What to Consider Before Buying an Antique Chandelier
When it comes to buying an antique chandelier, there is more to consider than the price tag. Luckily you don’t need a budget of nine million dollars to get an incredible light fixture for your home.
Let’s look into what you should consider before purchasing your ceiling’s favorite new accessory.
1. The Age and Quality of the Fixture
Knowing the age of your antique chandelier and the history behind it plays a big part in how much you’ll be paying. It’s okay to question the seller and get as many details about the craftsmanship as possible.
Be sure to check for the quality of the piece by evaluating the depth of the crystal cuts and the sharpness of any design in metalwork. You don’t want to pay for what you thought was a 19th-century antique but turned out to be a Chinese copy.
2. The Style of the Light Piece
Chandeliers have many five common styles: Art Deco, Tiffany, Colonial Revival, Victorian, and Empire. It’s best to research which styles fit best with your lifestyle and home decor. Remember to pick something that will reflect you in the future as well.
Need help choosing the perfect style chandelier for your home? Check out our beginner’s guide to the most popular chandelier styles.
3. Installation of Your New Light Fixture
If you are ordering your chandelier online or getting it shipped, it is important to ask about installation. Often, the seller will deconstruct the chandelier and package it to protect each crystal from the shipping process.
Do you need a professional to install it? Should you consult an electrician or can you do it yourself? These are some things to consider before swiping your card.
4. The Chandelier’s Wiring
To be safe, we always suggest getting your fixture rewired. It’s a cheap thing to do, and it ensures the safety and protection of your fixture.
Something else to research before buying a chandelier is if the fixture is UL certified. UL stands for Underwriters Laboratories, a company that has been a world leader in lighting product safety testing for more than 100 years.
Which Chandelier Will You Choose?
Now that you are an antique chandelier-buying expert, it’s time to go shopping! Will you choose a French antique chandelier? Or do the mid-century chandeliers suit you best?
Buying a chandelier from the web can be tricky. If you’re looking for a quality chandelier on a budget, check out these affordable chandeliers of various designs!
