Many antique crystal chandelier collectors often get ripped off by merchants claiming to have “the real thing”.  This happens because people don’t spend enough time researching what they can use to identify a true antique.

To ensure you don’t get ripped off and end up with imitation antique crystal chandeliers, make note of these characteristics that will often help you determine if you are looking at an original.

  • The first thing you should look for on the chandelier is the name of the manufacturer.  This alone can easily help you determine if a crystal chandelier is a genuine antique.  Once you identify the manufacturer, you can then do some research online to confirm if they are antique chandelier manufacturers.
  • Most true antique crystal chandeliers will have hallmarks, also known as maker marks, that can help you determine if a particular chandelier is an antique.  These marks are especially helpful if the name of the manufacturer is not shown on the chandelier.  Once you find a mark, you can take a picture of it and head straight to the library.  If you have a hallmark, you should be able to research and find out the name of the manufacturer and determine whether they are known for making true antique crystal chandeliers.
  • Generally, antique crystal chandeliers from years ago were made with bases and arms of crystal, bronze and brass.  These genuine metals and stones are the main materials used in antique chandeliers, which is why they are so expensive today.  You will never find an antique crystal chandelier that is plated with gold or brass.  A true antique will be made of 100% solid materials.
  • Antique chandeliers were always made to use wood, candles or oil for burning and creating light.  None of the antique chandeliers were made to use light bulbs, so if you run into one that does, chances are it is not a true antique.
  • Electric chandeliers with crystal embellishments are definitely not antique chandeliers.  Antique pieces never used electricity, and often used more crystal than just for embellishment.

If you make note of these tips and characteristics, you will certainly be able to identify a true antique crystal chandelier with relative ease.  Antiques were made with more attention to detail, better craftsmanship and solid metals and stones.  Now that you know that, selecting an antique chandelier should be a breeze!

Article tags: vintage crystal chandelier