Crystal Chandeliers

Crystal Chandeliers - Explained :

Crystal chandeliers are a timeless style which remains popular today in many different variations of décor. Though there may seem to be many terms and details to understand with shopping for crystal chandeliers, a little bit of information goes a long way to mastering the knowledge about these beautiful pieces of art.

Knowledge is the key to understanding the full value and appreciation of a fine crystal chandelier. Elegant crystal chandeliers grace historical places and museums throughout Europe, Asia and North America. Crystal Chandeliers, once reserved for royalty, can now be hung in any home. Modern day Crystal Chandeliers use advanced technology combined with old world knowledge to produce brilliant crystal with precision cutting and superior light refraction. The design and manufacturing of crystal chandeliers requires years of experience and specialized craftsmanship.

Interesting Facts About Crystal :

Crystal is, by definition, a clear, colorless, high-quality form of glass.
Crystal is cut using a mixture of lead-oxide, which hardens the crystal so it doesn’t chip or crack like regular glass would under the stress.
When referring to crystal, a manufacturer will say “21% leaded crystal”, which refers to the amount of lead-oxide present. Currently, 30% leaded crystal is the highest quality of crystal. The higher the lead concentration, the better quality the crystal and the better light will prism through it.
The sparkle of crystal comes from the refraction of light passing through a prism. Its value depends on the quality of its material and how it is produced. Certain countries of origin also enhance the value of the crystal.
Crystal chandeliers come in different forms. Some chandeliers may have metal arms which are dressed in crystal ornaments, while others may be entirely made of crystal including the arms.
Lighting manufacturers import crystal from different sources. Austrian (Bohemian) crystal is a popular choice, as is Egyptian and Turkish crystal. Crystal is made by different manufacturers around the world each of whom have their own secret techniques.

•A widely popular manufacturer of crystal used in lighting is Swarovski. Many customers ask for it by name due to its popularity and recognition of its figurine stores located in malls across the country.

•Swarovski manufactures a line of crystal called Strass, considered by many to be the highest quality crystal in the world. Strass crystal, while stunning, is also very expensive and can sometimes double the price of a chandelier using other crystal!

•Each piece of crystal in the Strass line is laser-engraved with a logo to ensure authenticity. This logo can be found at the top portion of each crystal and is shown here at right.