The use of chandeliers to provide ambient illumination and lighting is certainly nothing new. In fact, chandeliers predate electrical light fixtures by several centuries and originally featured candles as the sources of illumination. The oldest chandeliers were actually wooden and tended to feature a “cross” shape on which the candles would be placed at opposing corners. Of course very few of these chandelier ancestors remain in existence but historical accounts indicate that only the Church, State, or the very rich were fortunate enough to have a chandelier illuminating their homes or buildings.

During the late Victorian era, the design of chandeliers became very elaborate and featured exotic materials such as crystal. While electricity was not commonly found in towns or available to the public at large during this time, the chandeliers of the era were some of the first to use electric bulbs as only the wealthy and institutions had power at the time.

Thankfully, not only do modern chandeliers use electricity and light bulbs(actually, there are candle chandeliers made today for those looking for a more traditional and rustic look)—but they are also available at prices the rest of us can afford! You can find a chandelier made in every design style on the market and featuring a wide assortment of materials to suit any décor, budget, and taste.

But, while we may love the elegance and extravagance of a large and magnificent crystal chandelier like those commonly seen in classic movies like “The Sound of Music”, the truth is that these uniquely fashioned light fixtures are also available in a wide assortment of sizes. No longer are we limited to mounting a brass or Tiffany chandelier solely in the dining room or some lavish dance hall (that we don’t have!).

Indeed, the foyer or entryway to your home is one of the most impressive places to illuminate with a smaller chandelier. This is the first impression that any guest will have of your home so using a mini chandelier is the perfect way to make everyone feel welcome. Plus, the transition from exterior lighting to the indoors can be very disorienting if there is too great of a difference between the illumination intensity. Foyer chandeliers, with their multiple bulbs, can provide enough illumination during the daytime hours to minimize disorientation while still being dimmed in the evening to create a subtle and relaxing ambiance.

Whether you wish to illuminate the entranceway and greet guests with a warm ambiance or simply want to elevate the style and sophistication of your living room décor, contemporary chandeliers functional while still retaining the classic elegance and beauty that helped make them so revered and cherished. Fortunately, there are a number of companies manufacturing high quality chandeliers at affordable prices making these exquisite fixtures available to anyone looking to sensationalize any space and illuminate it with beauty and unparalleled brilliance.