If you are having a difficult time making a decision for your purchase, but you know you want something other than the standard metals or metal finishes, you may want to think about a buying a colored chandelier. Colored chandeliers have become very popular in the last few years as a fairly inexpensive way to update a room or add an interesting focal point. The selection of both style and fixture is virtually endless, from contemporary to classic. Many will complement almost any room in your house. Some colored chandeliers are painted, while others have a metal structure. The added components, such as the bottom bowl, finials and arms, can be made from glass, metal, or even plastic. Selections of finish on the painted fixtures also varies, from matte to high gloss.

If you are unsure of purchasing a colored chandelier, shopping for a black fixture is the best place to begin. Black chandeliers look especially good in most rooms, particularly ones that have a rich color, such as deep reds and greens. Adding a black chandelier can definitely enhance the elegance or ambiance of a room that has darker colors. Although, the contrast can also be quite eye catching in a lighter colored room.

Shopping online is often the easiest way to find just what you are looking for in chandelier lighting. You can even search by color at many online lighting stores. Additionally, you will be able to see the measurements, what is included in the packaging (such as bulbs, additional wiring or chain links, etc.), as well as shipping costs. Typically, most sites offer free shipping for any order over $50. Most also have a generous return policy that supplies you with the return labels and detailed instructions on repackaging and shipping the item back to the store. Many times the item is shipped by UPS, which will pick the package up at your house for no additional charge. Or, you can always take it to the nearest UPS store or mailbox outlet store that offers shipping by UPS.

You may want to consider purchasing your chandelier lighting online. Even if you have to return the fixture, it’s often easier to do so with an online purchase than with one you bought at a local store. Many online stores offer free shipping if you spend over $50. Additionally, the return policies are also typically very good, with shipping labels often included in the packaging, and UPS pick up from your front door.

Prior to shopping for your chandelier lighting, there are a few things you should consider. First, are the measurements:

• Dining, Kitchen and Bedrooms – As a standard you will measure both the length and width of the room in inches and then add those two numbers together. That sum will equal the diameter of the chandelier you will be purchasing. However, if the fixture will be hanging above a large table and you feel that the length/width measurement may be too small, you can also just measure the width of the table and 3/4 of the table size will be the size you want. Please note, the bottom of the chandelier needs to be approximately 2.5-3 feet above the top of the table.

• Foyer – The length/width of the room measurement can also be used when sizing a chandelier for a foyer. Keep in mind the height of the ceiling in the foyer as well, as that should be at least seven feet from the floor.

Other things to consider are:

• Number of lights – You can choose from a 3-light nook, all the way up to a 12+ light grand foyer. Your choice will depend on the size of the room the light will hang in, as well as your preference for level of lighting: low, medium or bright.

• Chandelier finish – Do you want a glossy or matte finish? Brushed or bright metals? Do you want a more rustic or antique feel to the chandelier? You may want to consider a hand-rubbed antique finish.

• Shades – If you want a softer, more muted glow to the room, consider purchasing shades. Shades can also be a good idea for a foyer with a staircase, as it will help block the glare of the lighting when someone is on the stairs looking into the entrance. You can choose from glass, fabric, even paper shades. Be sure to check the wattage of your bulb as well.

• What styles do you feel would look good in that particular room or section of the house? Traditional? Contemporary? Transitional? Or maybe something more grand, such as Tiffany and art glass, or crystal chandeliers. Remember also, when considering style, that the more intricate the fixture, the more difficult it will be to clean. And a darker color will tend to show more dust than a lighter color.