There's no lighting source more brilliant and appealing than that of chandelier lighting. Because of the wonderful qualities and aesthetics of chandeliers, they evolved as important pieces that are often incorporated inside luxurious hotels, fine dining restaurants, up scale offices and homes. They are available in abundant types and finishes, and combines sophisticated forms and functions to befit a wide array of settings. More often than not, modern chandeliers provide illumination by using standard electric light bulbs or electric candles; however, there are also old chandeliers that utilize gaslights and wax candles that are still being used today.

Among the myriads of chandelier lighting fixtures to choose from, crystal chandeliers remains as the most popular preference. These chandeliers are created from cut glass pieces that are then hanged onto the arms of the light fixture. Crystals reflects light easily, and break the light into several arrays, which produces a colorful shimmering effect. It was the European royalties and wealthy Americans of 1920's and 1930's that made crystal chandeliers popular.

Bead-shell chandeliers are contemporary chandelier pieces that are truly popular because of their bead and shell structures. The Capiz or mother-of-pearl shell is the most common type of shell used for the creation of these chandeliers. Chandeliers made from shells and beads often produce softer lights, making them more preferable to use in fine dining restaurants as they induce a cozy ambiance. They are also usually positioned near pictures and paintings, as they highlight these interior pieces beautifully.

Murano glass chandeliers are contemporary chandelier furnishings that were hailed from Murano, Italy, which is treated as the world's glass blowing capital. Murano glass chandeliers denote specific chandelier design that is often curvy or tubular in form. As the glass being used in this type of chandelier can be molded into several shapes, these chandeliers are often designed with floral motifs and other complex figures and are usually dyed in pastel colors. The use of different colors in these chandeliers allows them to emit unique and creative light effects.

On the other hand, antler chandeliers, as their name implies, are derived from the shed antlers of deer, elk or moose. These chandelier lighting fixtures are commonly used in western-style homes such as log cabins and ranch residences. You can pull off a rustic looking space by simply hanging an antler chandelier. If you're budget can't afford authentic antler chandeliers, you can always settle for faux antler chandeliers that are made from plastic fibers, designed to appear like real antlers.

Metal candle chandeliers made from brass, brushed nickel or wrought iron can make a substantial traditional appearance inside homes. Metal antique chandeliers originally hold candles when they were introduced in the 1400's; over the years they were recreated in different forms to fit modern settings. Antique metal candle chandeliers are among the most expensive lighting fixtures today, and may cost up to $60,000 because of their rarity and origin, making them collectible items. If you want to save energy and you have the right budget, you can always opt for an antique metal candle chandelier.

If you want to lighten up your living space, foyer or dining area and you also want to achieve different aesthetics for these rooms, chandelier lighting fixtures can solve these issues. These hanging light pieces combine functionality and style into a single furnishing. Today, there's a whole range of contemporary chandelier designs to choose from, or if you want to induce a traditional vibe inside your home you can always opt for antique chandeliers.