How to Choose an Antler Chandelier

Antlers are like fingerprints--no two are alike. That variety makes a chandelier crafted from naturally shed antlers a unique decoration for your lodge or home. Antler chandeliers are especially suited for houses with Western-style decor, including loft or ski homes. Antler chandeliers come in a variety of styles and price ranges and can be made from the antlers of moose, elk, mule deer or white-tail deer, reindeer and caribou. Plus, they are environmentally friendly since antlers are a renewable resource.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Pen and paper

Instructions

1. Take and record some measurements. Generally, a chandelier should be 2 inches in diameter for every foot that the room is wide. Using that scale, a small room of about 10 feet by 10 feet would require a chandelier about 20 inches in diameter.

2. Decide on the amount of light you need. A general rule is 200 to 400 watts total for all bulbs. Install a dimmer switch to adjust the amount of light.

3. Know the difference between natural and manufactured antlers. Cast, or manufactured, antler chandeliers weigh less than natural antler chandeliers because the antlers are made of resin. Naturally shed antlers are solid and dense like bone. They also exhibit a variety of color and shapes, while cast antlers tend to look more uniform.

4. Check the workmanship. Make sure the wires and screws are hidden inside the antlers. All parts should be UL listed for safety. Socket covers made from antler pieces are another sign of quality.

5. Learn about antler grades. Grade 1 antlers are shiny and free of cracks. They were shed one to three months before being found. Grade 2 antlers have a few cracks, usually on one side, due to longer exposure to the elements--up to a year. Grade 3 antlers have more cracks, holes and chew marks on both sides. Grade 4 antlers have begun to crumble in addition to having cracks and holes. Avoid chandeliers made with Grades 3 or 4 antlers.

Tips & Warnings

• Because antler chandeliers are ornate, they can appear larger than they really are.

References

• Antler grades
• Choosing a chandelier

Resources

• Antler chandeliers