Iron Chandelier: Illuminating to the Space & Impressive to the Eye
The iron chandelier has been around for centuries, not only as an efficient lighting fixture, but also as an elaborate decorative element. Some of the earliest examples were made in medieval France from wrought iron and cross motifs made by joining thick wooden beams, upon which candles were placed to illuminate large spaces.
Chandeliers continue to be among the most prestigious, yet practical, pieces of décor used in large spaces, both in the home and in public spaces. The iron chandelier continues to be among the top choices for this kind of lighting, mostly because of its sturdiness, simplicity and, above all, ability to compliment various room designs and architectural details. Chandeliers made of durable wrought iron are resilient and able to resist several exterior factors that could damage almost any other material, while their appearance can vary from simple medieval, colonial or classical 18th century designs to sleek, simple or even extravagant modern designs. They are the perfect durable, high quality element to complete the overall look of a space.
Iron and strong iron alloys, like steel, are by far the most common metals in everyday use. Traditionally, the typical iron chandelier is made of wrought iron, a low cost iron that contains less than 0.25% carbon and is more corrosion resistant than even steel. In more recent times, mild steel, or plain carbon steel, is used instead of wrought iron and, although less resistant to corrosion, is a perfectly acceptable less expensive replacement in the manufacturing of wrought iron chandeliers of a more modern devise. Both variants of the metal are very durable, quite simple for maintenance and, especially with contemporary techniques and machinery, are easily molded into almost any shape or elaborate design.
Aside from being a visually handsome and practical light fixture, the iron chandelier’s greatest advantage is hardiness and hassle-free maintenance. Unlike glass and crystal chandeliers, cleaning iron chandeliers could not be any simpler. Iron chandeliers are very catchy to the eye and nothing makes one more noticeable than filth, when the otherwise strong, glowing begins to lose its particular shine. All one needs to do is unplug the iron light fixture and, with something as simple as dishwashing detergent or a generic glass cleaning fluid and water, clean the stem and arms of the chandelier using a soft towel or non-abrasive washrags. Once finished, return and plug in the light fixture once again, and you’re good to go.
Weekly touch ups using your vacuum cleaner as you complete regular household chores will save you the hassle of having to give the chandelier a full cleaning often. It may be months before your faithful iron chandelier requires a repeat performance of this maintenance procedure. The crown feature of your dining room or office lobby will return to its original shiny state and continue to illuminate your space and impress the eye.
Although wrought iron and mild steel are typically low cost materials, the price of an iron chandelier may vary. A more elaborate design, added features, or a unique piece will certainly cost you more than the regular chandeliers that can be found in any specialized retail chain. A typical new iron chandelier will cost you as little as 40 to 50 dollars, while the price of an antique or unique chandelier could go as high as several thousand, depending on the quality and design of the chandelier. There are high-quality antique or vintage chandeliers to be found on auction that could last well into the next generation, as well as brand new iron chandeliers of colonial or contemporary design crafted by several existing trusted manufacturers. Owning an iron chandelier that will last a lifetime or longer depends more on the quality you choose than on its age or regular maintenance.