Chandelier arms extend out from the main body of a chandelier and hold candles or bulbs. Chandelier arms are styled in different shapes. Common shapes are an “S” arm, a fluted chandelier arm, and a rope chandelier arm. Arms can be made of different materials such as crystal, brass or metal.
A Bobeche is the round cup at the base of a light bulb or candle slip. Bobeches are typically curved like a bowl and were originally used to collect wax drips from candles. In modern electricity-powered chandeliers bobeches are often kept as part of the design and enhance the overall look of a chandelier. A bobeche can be made of crystal, cut glass, blown glass, metal, acrylic or a variety of other materials.
The candles that go on the end of the chandelier arms are what are used for illuminating the chandelier. These were originally actual candles. As chandeliers became electrified, the candles became candle covers or candle slips which maintain the appearance of looking like candles. Chandelier candle covers may be made of plastic or wax. Most candle covers are hand made and even have wax drippings on the candles which make them look very authentic and attractive.
A canopy is an upside-down shallow dish at the top of a chandelier (and sometimes at intermediate points), from which festoons of beads are often suspended, lending a flourish to the top of the fitting.
Certainly the focal points of a crystal chandelier, crystals add shine, brilliance, elegance and beauty. Crystals can be added to any type chandelier, not just one that has a body made out of fine glass or crystal. Some of the most striking design combinations involve crystals adorning steel, tarnished metal or other unique chandelier bodies. Crystals come in many shapes, sizes, colors and qualities.
A found object is just what you’d expect: a unique piece of art, sculpture, or lighting that was found and used as-is. Typically, found objects are attractive because they are no longer pristine and have a weathered, worn look.
Shades may be functional, decorative or both. Shades can be used to diffuse the light from chandelier bulbs. They can be used to dress up a simple-styled chandelier, or add more intricate detail to an elaborately styled fixture. Shades are often created from linen, parchment, beads or crystals.
