With the industries growing concerns on more energy efficient lighting more and more manufacturers are introducing and developing more energy efficient and LED light fixtures. These pictures are an example of a beautiful, sleek, modern light from Holkotter International that are energy efficient LED Chandeliers.

The heart of every crystal chandelier or crystal adorned light fixture is the crystal itself. Each crystal represents the difference between choosing a light fixture of heirloom quality that completes the room or one that lacks warmth and will soon become just part of a room. Since the significant cost of a crystal chandelier is in the quality of the crystals that will adorn it, understanding the different types and shapes of crystals is necessary. When selecting your crystal options, consider that the type or grade of a crystal determines the clarity, color density, and light dispersion. To help with your selection of crystal grades, the most popular options are discussed in detail in the video below.

The most important factors that contribute to how often your Crystal Chandelier needs to be cleaned are the location, type of crystals, and the shape of the crystals. A Crystal Chandelier hanging in a foyer trimmed with Swarovski Strass Crystals, which are finished with an optical coating that repels dust and other airborne particles, is both easier to clean and could be done less frequently, while a Crystal Chandelier trimmed with hand cut crystal pendeloques in the same location will show more dust and require frequent cleanings.

To determine if your crystals need to be cleaned, look at your light fixture. If the crystals seem to be dull or have a layer of dust coating them, refer to the cleaning techniques below.

Note: Prior to using any crystal cleaning techniques listed below, unplug and turn off the power source to your crystal light fixture and allow all bulbs to cool.

Cleaning Techniques

Grand Light has been a leading source of crystal light fixtures for over 70 years, and in that time, we have perfected the art of cleaning and maintaining crystals. Here's how we recommend you do it.

Latex Glove Method: This technique is best used when particle and dust coating is minimal and does not require the crystals to be removed.

Start off by preparing a solution consisting of one part isopropyl alcohol to three parts distilled water in a spray bottle. Next, don your latex gloves and spray the solution on to a lint free cleaning cloth. To reduce the chance of spotting from excess solution, avoid spraying the crystals directly. To ensure proper cleaning, each crystal should be done one at a time.

Crystal Removal Method: This technique is best used to remove the dust that has been building up over the years and requires a bit more effort to clear away.

Begin by placing a soft towel or blanket down on a level, safe location. Next, remove all trims and finish pieces that will prevent you from removing the crystals. Once this is completed, remove the crystals and place them on the towel or blanket. Upon removal of the crystal, hand wash them in mild dish soap and lukewarm water. Rinse the crystals in warm water and allow them to dry. Remember to wear gloves when placing them back on your Crystal Chandelier or any other crystal light fixture to reduce finger prints and other grim.

Browse through our huge selection of Chandeliers. For a free half-hour lighting design consultation, call us at 1-800-922-1469 or simply use our contact form. Our team is waiting to assist you with all of your lighting design and layout needs.

Swarovski Strass Crystal:Regarded by leaders in the industry as the finest crystal in the world, Strass crystals are acclaimed for possessing the highest levels of both clarity and internal flawlessness. Possessing a lead content that exceeds 30%, each Strass crystal is first cut by a machine to ensure that each facet meets precisely at one focal point to achieve optimum refraction and produce an optically pure prism. After machining, each crystal is hand polished and given an invisible optical coating that not only makes it easier to clean and maintain, but actually repels dust partials. To ensure buyer protection, each Strass crystal is laser etched with the official Swarovski Strass logo.

Swarovski Strass Crystals in Fashion Colors: Almost as famous for their innovation as they are for their crystals, Swarovski has taken their renowned Strass crystals and has added color options using a technique that does not degrade the look or finish of the crystal, but actually enhances the existing faceting, clarity, and shape. Featuring over 15 different color choices, Swarovski makes it possible to match and compliment your exsisting color palette and still dress your crystal light fixture with the highest quality of crystals.

Swarovski Spectra Crystal: Manufactured in Austria by Swarovski, Spectra crystals offer an affordable Swarovski crystal option. Each Swarovski Spectra crystal is created and cut in a process similar to the Strass crystals. However, Spectra crystals are differentiated from Strass crystals as they are not made with lead, do not come with an optical coating, and are available in different shapes and sizes.

Precision Crystal: Laser cut and machined polished, Precision crystals are manufactured with a lead content level of 30% or more. Using only the highest quality precision cutting machines, each crystal is cut for optimal light dispersion and clarity.

Imperial/Regal/Gem-Cut/Royal Cut Crystals: Blending a quality look with a great price point, Imperial, Regal, Gem-cut, and Royal Cut crystals are created by artisans world wide and match some of the most flawless crystals made by high quality manufactures. Each type of these luminous crystals are for the discerning customer who appreciates fine craftsmanship at a moderate price.

Venetian Crystal: Using the same time-honored techniques that has been perfected over generations, Venetian glass comes from the historic glass making region around Venice, Italy. Molded and fire polished instead of being machine or hand cut, Venetian Crystal possesses a subtle beauty-- soft and graceful-- that has a look and feel of it's own. Compared to cut crystal, it is moderately priced.