Chandeliers. The word conjures up the image of an opulent creation of cut glass through which shafts of light pierce, to give the room a royal feel. For long, palaces across the world have been home to these lights. But these decorative masterpieces are no longer the ‘just for royalty’ today. Though they continue to be a statement of status, they are no longer confined to durbar halls alone.

History
Illustrations of a medieval chandelier from King René's Tournament Book ‘The earliest chandeliers’, were used in medieval churches and abbeys to illuminate large halls. They generally took the form of a wooden cross with a number of spikes on which candles could be secured. Developments in glassmaking in the 18th century then allowed the cheaper production of lead crystal. The light-scattering properties of this highly refractive glass quickly became a popular addition to the form, leading to the Crystal Chandelier.

Even today nothing beats a classic crystal chandelier when it comes to pure sophistication. Corporate houses, hotels, and other public establishments house some of the finest of these creations.

Fitting it right
Structurally, chandeliers may be much heavier than other ceiling light fixtures. Some may require special attachments to the ceiling and specially reinforced ceilings. Many do not require special supports and can be directly attached to the electrical box like any other fixture. Instead, they specify that the electrical box be specially reinforced. This reinforcement can typically only be done at the time of the installation of the box.
Subsequent installations of a chandelier may require extensive renovations. With all these specifications, how does one go about choosing a fitting for one’s home?

Factors for selection
There are three factors that come into play while choosing a chandelier —  the decor and character of the home that you want to create; the size of the room, ie, height, width, and length; and the budget.

B K Ganesh, who is a consultant with Studio 69 in Bangalore, says it is the character of the house that is most important while choosing a chandelier. "Colonial architecture and the classic-feel homes are best suited for a crystal chandelier. This piece would look absolutely out of place if you are trying to create a modern look with with steel and straight lines. Blend the decor so you create the right ambience."

The size of the room that you want the chandelier for, is most important. Mr Pankaj, General Manager of Kapoor Lamps on St Marks Road, says, "For people who buy apartments, the height is not very conducive for a large chandelier. Ideally, they should opt for fixtures that are flushed to the ceiling which provides the ambience but does not overshadow the room. However, a private residence which has a wall height of about 10 to 12 feet, can experiment."

But, for most of us it is the budget that is the deciding factor. The prices vary from crores to a few thousands to accommodate every budget there is. With China entering the market of mass produced fittings, the small budget clients have been a happy lot, with a wide range available to them at affordable prices. However, Austrian crystals or the Strass crystals are still considered a collector’s item. They remain the finest and envy of all.

Another important point to keep in mind while chandelier shopping is that this is essentially just decorative lighting meant to create a mood (Dimmers are a common option for chandeliers). You still need to keep the functional lighting in mind while designing the room. It is wisest to invest in an interior decorator or a lighting consultant to help you with the requirement.

The environment lovers, however, will not be great fans of this beauty. Besides the fact that crystals are traditionally made of lead, they are also best illuminated by GSL lamps or halogen bulbs. Austria has now come up with eco-friendly crystals which are 100 percent lead free. Europe, where GSL lamps have almost been banned to reduce the global warming effect, has found an alternative to that as well — tiny bulbs called T9 bulbs which give the effect without harming our world any further. 

Maintaining the chandelier is also necessary. One of the important tips: do not use any liquid cleaner to clean the structure. Dry dusting works best. If you insist on using liquid, then limit it to the crystals and glass. You run the risk of erosion of the lacquer covered metal structures if you insist with cleaning solutions.

So bring home a piece of opulence and while it glows at your dinner party, watch your friends turn green with envy.