How did they light candle chandelier?

Most chandeliers had dozens, or, in some cases, hundreds, of candles mounted on them, to create enough light to reflect. The really interesting bit was how they lit them. Each chandelier was suspended from a big chain, which went up to a large (very securely mounted) metal ring at the ceiling.

How can you tell if a crystal chandelier is real?

Examine the Glass Color The color of the glass in an old crystal chandelier is another clue as to its origins and age. The high lead content of a 19th-century chandelier makes the glass appear to have a gray tint. This is a good indication that the chandelier is authentic and not a modern reproduction.

What’s the difference between crystal and lead crystal?

Most often people are not aware of the difference between crystal and lead crystal glassware. The only difference that they know is that one of them contains lead. Lead crystal sparkles more than the crystals. This is because of the addition of lead oxide, which increases the refractive index.

How do you tell if a chandelier is crystal or glass?

Generally, crystal chandeliers give off more color, but the fundamental difference between glass and crystal is the lead content. In the U.S., glass with 1 percent of lead or more is deemed a crystal, while in Europe glass becomes a crystal only when lead content exceeds 10 percent.

What is a crystal chandelier made of?

glass
Crystal chandeliers are made by fusing intricate glass parts at insane temperature and milting silica sand in a furnace along with lead, hot ash, and other ingredients.

What are the crystals on chandeliers called?

Chandelier crystals, which can be cut and polished into various shapes and sizes, are called pendalogues, though sometimes it’s spelled pendeloques.

How do I know if my chandelier is worth money?

Like any collectible, a chandelier that is in good, original condition will have more value than one that is in poor condition or that has been extensively refurbished. Examine the crystal to look for chips and cracks. Check whether any pieces of the crystal are missing or have been replaced with newer material.

Is lead crystal valuable?

Because of its lead content, crystal glassware is stronger, heavier, and smoother than standard glass. The value of older and more highly decorated crystal glassware can range between $1,000 and $4,000—sometimes even more, depending on its condition and design.

Why is lead crystal so heavy?

Lead content makes crystal dense, providing a much lighter index of light refraction (refractive index) than normal glass, and consequently much greater “sparkle”, exceptional colour and brilliance. What is lead-free crystal glass? A so-called “lead-free crystal” is essentially fine glass without the lead content.

How do you identify lead crystal?

Lead crystal is generally easily identified; all you need is a fingernail or metal utensil. Tap your nail or a fork against the edge of the glass. If it clinks, it is glass, but if it rings, you have crystal. Generally, the longer the ring, the higher the lead content.

How much is my chandelier worth?

Much of the time, the value of a chandelier is based on what the market is willing to pay. Look for previous sales of fixtures to see what prices were achieved. Many antique chandeliers are sold through auction houses. Large establishments, such as Christie’s, have online records of completed auctions.

What kind of crystal is used in antique chandeliers?

Italian glass crystal is used in antique reproduction chandeliers. The frames for our crystal chandeliers include those that are all crystal as well as bronze, gold, iron and silver and more.

What is the difference between lead and lead crystal and glass?

Lead glass contains typically 18–40\% (by weight) lead (II) oxide (PbO), while modern lead crystal, historically also known as flint glass due to the original silica source, contains a minimum of 24\% PbO. Lead glass is often desirable for a variety of uses due to its clarity.

What are the alternative materials for lead-free glass?

One alternative material is crystal glass, in which barium oxide, zinc oxide, or potassium oxide are employed instead of lead oxide. Lead-free crystal has a similar refractive index to lead crystal, but it is lighter and it has less dispersive power.

How did lead oxide change the glass making process?

Originally discovered by Englishman George Ravenscroft in 1674, the technique of adding lead oxide (in quantities of between 10 and 30\%) improved the appearance of the glass and made it easier to melt using sea-coal as a furnace fuel. This technique also increased the “working period” making the glass easier to manipulate.