Readers ask: How To Know If Your Hanging Lights Are Antiques?

How do I know if my light fixture is antique?

Look at the light fixture for manufacturer impressions. The metal framework supports the fixture, the base of the light and the arms connecting to the globes. The company names or signatures that were incorporated into the original casting are the most common markings.

How do I know if my chandelier is antique?

One way to identify the maker of an antique crystal chandelier is by examining the drip pans. Drip pans, also called bobeche, are the cup-like pieces of crystal located at the base of each candle nozzle, and originally were designed to catch candle wax.

How do you date an antique chandelier?

1. Look over every inch of the light fixture for a maker’s mark, name or date.
2. Sift through old catalogs, newspaper advertisements and home magazines for your chandelier or a close match that could lead you to the actual manufacturer, country of origin and period.
3. Consider the source that powered your chandelier.

How can you tell if a stained glass lamp is for hanging?

How to Identify Stained Glass Lamps

1. Look for the signature on the base of the lamp shade.
2. Study the base of the lamp.
3. Examine the solder between glass pieces.
4. Study the design.
5. Pay attention to the price.

Are old light fixtures worth anything?

Antique light fixtures are a valuable and inspirational decorative accent in a real estate investment. The historical significance and unique styling associated with antique lighting fixtures make them a luxurious element in a home design.

Are old light fixtures dangerous?

An old lamp may look beautiful, but it can be dangerous. Rewiring it to make it safer is fairly easy in most cases. Most lamps will have a wire running through the center of the base, connecting the lamp socket to the plug. If the lamp is older, consider replacing the wire, as they do break down over time.

What is the difference between crystal and glass chandelier?

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.

How can you tell if a chandelier is brass?

If the magnet sticks, the item is usually steel or cast iron, with a brass plating. If the magnet does not stick, you can test further by scratching a hidden area with a sharp tool. If you see a shiny yellow scratch, the item is likely solid brass. If you see a silvery scratch, your piece is likely white metal (zinc).

What is K9 Crystal?

K9 glass, sometimes referred to as K9 crystal, is a variety of optical borosilicate crown glass. K9 glass has high optical clarity, and is used in many contexts requiring this characteristic. It has been regarded as a difficult-to-cut material because of its superior mechanical properties.

How can you tell if a chandelier is real crystal?

Look for spots with no flaws, no inclusions, bubbles, or roughness. The lead content of the Crystal does not mean how good it is. All the crystals are glass. It is difficult to distinguish between good water Crystal and fine crystal.

How do I know if my chandelier is Waterford?

The first way to tell an authentic piece of Waterford is to look for the Waterford acid mark. Using a magnifying glass, or holding the crystal up to the light, search for the stamp. It will most likely appear on the stem’s base, but can also be found in the grooves as well.

What is the best crystal chandelier?

Swarovski Crystal offers the finest chandelier crystal option available.

1. Swarovski Elements Crystal Glass.
2. Spectra Crystal.
3. Egyptian / Moroccan Crystal (Gemcut)
4. Turkish Crystal (Handcut, Heritage Handcut, Regal)
5. Italian Crystal (Legacy, Venetian)
6. K9 and Chinese Crystal.

How do you know if a lamp is valuable?

Lamps are often more valuable when left in an original condition with most or all the original parts. Lightly scratch the underside of the lamp surface to determine the type of material it is made from. Some lamps may appear to be made of metal, but they might also be painted to look and feel just like metal.

Are Tiffany lamps worth anything?

Antique Tiffany Lamps Value Tiffany lamps ‘ value can be anywhere from $4,000 to over $1 million. The most expensive Tiffany lamps sell for upwards of $1 million. The highest price ever paid for a Tiffany lamp remains $2.8 million at a Christie’s auction in 1997.

Is Dale Tiffany the same as Tiffany?

Since it was founded in 1979, Dale Tiffany Inc. has specialized in reproducing leaded lamp designs first developed by Louis Comfort Tiffany, ca. 1890-1920s. There is no other relationship.