Maddie James
Candle holders, also known as candlesticks, are devices used to hold candles in place. They are functional and decorative items that provide support and stability for candles while protecting surfaces from dripping wax and potential fire hazards. Candle holders are made from a variety of materials, including glass, crystal, ceramic, porcelain, stone, plastic, steel, iron, brass, copper, mosaic glass, and wood. They come in various styles, such as hurricane candle holders, lanterns, sconces, and candelabras, each offering a unique aesthetic and purpose. Candelabras, for example, are candle holders with multiple arms, often used as centerpieces or to provide ambient lighting. The history of candle holders dates back to the Middle Ages, with references to ecclesiastical candlesticks found in the Old Testament. Today, candle holders are used in homes as decorative elements or to create a cozy atmosphere, as well as in religious rituals and for spiritual purposes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To hold a candle in place and protect surfaces from dripping wax and potential fire hazards |
| Types | Votive, tealight, hurricane, candelabra, wall sconce, taper, pillar, lantern, rustic, candlestick, chandelier |
| Materials | Glass, crystal, ceramic, plastic, stone, porcelain, stainless steel, iron, brass, copper, mosaic glass, marble, metal, wood |
| Design | Modern, vintage, rustic, industrial, simple, elegant, colourful, statement, geometric, sleek, gold, silver, hand-blown glass, acrylic |
| Use | Decorative, functional, spiritual, religious, ambient lighting, centrepiece, wall-mounted, floor, tabletop, fireplace |
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What You'll Learn
Candle holder materials
Candle holders are made from a variety of materials, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Here is a detailed look at some of the most common materials used for candle holders:
Glass
Glass candle holders are known for their transparency, although they can also be opaque and come in various colours. They are timeless and versatile, complementing any decor style. Glass holders can be fragile, but their delicate features and the way they reflect light make them stand out. Hurricane candle holders, for example, feature a glass enclosure that protects the candle from wind while adding elegance to the overall design.
Ceramic
Ceramic candle holders are made from baked clay, hardened by firing, and decorated or glazed. They are durable and more resistant to heat than glass, making them a worthwhile investment. Ceramic candle holders can come in various styles, from simple to decorative, adding a unique touch to any setting.
Metal
Metal candle holders offer a wide range of options, including stainless steel, brass, copper, iron, and gold. Metal holders are known for their durability and strength. Stainless steel, in particular, is highly resistant to corrosion. Metal candle holders can be elegant and timeless, like the designs offered by the Danish design company, Georj Jensen.
Stone
Stone candle holders provide an industrial design aesthetic with dark colours and durable material. They are long-lasting and can withstand potential wear and tear.
Wood
Wooden candle holders offer a natural and rustic charm. They can be simple or decorative, like the hand-crafted designs by MacKenzie-Childs. Wood is a versatile material that can be used for both indoor and outdoor candle holders, such as lanterns.
Plastic
Plastic candle holders are made from a special high-heat resistant material, making them lightweight and suitable for a wide range of temperatures.
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Types of candle holders
Candle holders are available in a variety of types, each with its own distinct style, shape, size, placement, and materials. Here is a list of some of the most popular types of candle holders:
Votive/Tealight
Votive and tealight candle holders are typically short, small, and decorative. They are designed to hold votive and tealight candles, respectively, and are perfect for accenting bathroom counters or mantles. They are also commonly used for events and come in a variety of colours and accents, functioning as stylish decor.
Taper
Taper candle holders are simple and commonly used for dining as they provide soft, ambient light. They are designed to fit tall and thin taper candles, which fit perfectly without any wiggling, making them ideal for dinner parties. They come in a wide variety of styles, heights, and materials.
Candelabra
Candelabras are extravagant and elaborate candle holders that display multiple candles. They are perfect for those who want to showcase their candles with elegance and whimsy.
Lantern
Lantern candle holders are typically made with a glass pane and a metal frame, making them durable and stylish. They are great for displaying candles outdoors, especially on decks or patios.
Hurricane
Hurricane candle holders feature a minimalist design, with a plain glass cylinder surrounding the candle to protect the flame. They provide a sleek look without overwhelming the space.
Wall Sconce
Wall sconces are candle holders that double as wall decor. They can be used to create a modern or vintage feel in any room, pairing well with a candle to set the mood.
Dish
Dish candle holders are used to create eye-catching centrepieces. The candle is placed in a dish surrounded by other decor, such as plants, books, or beads, making the candle the focal point.
Floor
Floor candle holders are large pieces that can hold candles, lanterns, or novelty shapes. They are often placed on either side of a fireplace or used to line the steps of a back deck.
Tabletop/Centrepiece
Tabletop or centrepiece candle holders are designed to be statement pieces placed on dining or coffee tables. It is important to choose the right size holder for the candle to ensure it sits securely.
Ball
Ball candle holders complement the unique shape of ball candles, either fully enclosing them or elevating them on a stand.
Flameless/LED
Even faux candles deserve a nice display! Flameless or LED candle holders come in various styles, such as pillar stands, lanterns, or minimalist hurricane vases.
Short/Small
Short and small candle holders are perfect for tealight, votive, and short pillar candles. They provide the appropriate size proportion of holder to candle.
Medium
Medium candle holders can accommodate medium-sized candles and come in various designs, including wall mounts and fireplace placements.
Ceramic, Glass, Plastic, Stone, and Porcelain
Candle holders can also be categorized by the material they are made of. Ceramic candle holders are durable and heat-resistant, while glass and crystal holders elevate the look of candles with their delicate features and light reflection. Plastic candle holders are lightweight and made from high-heat resistant materials, while stone holders offer an industrial design with dark colours and durable materials. Porcelain holders are more fragile but offer creative freedom with novelty shapes and designs.
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History of candle holders
The history of candle holders dates back thousands of years, with references to candle holders appearing in the Old Testament. In its earliest form, a candle was a torch made of bark, vine tendrils, or wood dipped in wax or tallow, which was held in the hand. As time progressed, candle holders became more sophisticated, with the ancient Romans using the term "candelabra" to describe a form of ornamental lighting with a tall stand supporting a lamp.
In medieval times, candle holders were often made from blocks of wood with an iron spike to hold the candle, although other materials such as earthenware and bones were also used. These candle holders were simple yet effective, and they could be found in various sizes. By the 17th century, candelabra were defined as having several branches, and they became popular in the homes of the wealthy as decorative lighting.
The first known use of the term "candelabra" in English was in 1776, and "candelabrum" in 1811. However, the word itself is derived from the Latin "candēlābrum", meaning "candlestick". During the 18th century, portable candelabra became more popular than wall-mounted sconces, with two-branched candelabra being the most common design.
By the 19th century, silver candelabra with multiple branches were often used on dinner tables, and by the 20th century, electric lighting had largely replaced candlelight. However, candelabra continued to be used on formal occasions, and they are still popular today as decorative items.
Candle holders have also served specific purposes throughout history, such as the courting candle, which was used by fathers to set boundaries for suitors courting their daughters. With the changing cultural norms, the popularity of courting candles faded, but their intricate wrought iron coiled design has made them collectible decorative pieces.
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Candle holder brands
Candle holders are available in a variety of materials, including glass, crystal, metal, stone, plastic, and ceramic. They can be found in many homeware stores, with some brands specialising in luxury or designer candle holders.
Maison Balzac
This brand debuted in 2012 and offers fun and elegant home décor products, including candle holders. Their products are made from a variety of materials, including mosaic glass and brass, and feature playful designs such as pom-poms.
MacKenzie-Childs
Based in Finger Lakes, NY, MacKenzie-Childs makes handcrafted home décor, including candle holders.
Iittala
This Nordic brand has been making items from hand-blown glass since 1881. They are known for their unique and well-made products, including candle holders made from sturdier materials than glass.
Hay
Hay offers a wide range of colourful and simple candle holders. They take inspiration from the art world, and their products resemble works of art.
Crate & Barrel
Crate & Barrel offers uniquely designed candle holders made from materials like solid marble, metal, and glass. They cater to a range of interior design styles, from boho-chic to sleek and modern.
Letifly
This Brooklyn-based company, founded in 2018, offers beautiful and affordable candle holders made from hand-blown glass. Their products range from modern to vintage-inspired designs.
Anthropologie
Anthropologie carries products from leading home décor brands and produces its own line of candle holders. Their products have a bohemian influence and are made from materials like wood and hand-blown glass.
Perigold
Perigold offers luxury candle holders and candelabras, including crystal candlesticks and metal wall candle holders. Their products feature intricate detailing and craftsmanship, making them ideal for formal occasions and gifts.
FARFETCH
FARFETCH offers luxury and designer candle holders, including the HAY Flare candle holder.
Target
Target offers a wide selection of stylish and affordable candle holders for every interior design style.
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How to choose a candle holder
Candle holders are a great way to add a stylish and cosy touch to your home. With a wide range of candle holders available, it is important to understand the different types and materials to make the right choice.
Firstly, it is important to consider the type of candle you will be using. For example, tealight candle holders are designed for tealight candles, which are small, round candles encased in a metal or plastic container. Tealight holders often come in various shapes and styles, such as glass cups or lantern-style holders. Votive candle holders are similar to tealight holders but are meant for votive candles, which are slightly larger than tealights. Pillar candle holders, on the other hand, are designed for pillar candles with a diameter of 2 to 3 inches and usually have a wide, flat base to support the weight of the candle.
The size of the candle holder is also an important factor. For example, if you have a small candle, you may want a short or small candle holder that is easy to light and extinguish. For larger candles, a medium-sized holder might be more suitable.
The material of the candle holder is another key consideration. Glass candle holders are popular due to their timeless and versatile style, but they are fragile. Crystal candle holders are even more fragile and come with a higher price tag. Ceramic candle holders are durable, heat-resistant, and less likely to wear over time, making them a worthwhile investment. Stone candle holders offer an industrial design with dark colours and durable material, while steel candle holders are strong, heavy, and resistant to corrosion.
Finally, consider the purpose and aesthetic of the candle holder. Candelabras, for example, are elegant centrepieces with multiple arms that can add a touch of sophistication to a dining table or ambient lighting to a room. Hurricane candle holders offer a minimalist design with a sleek glass cylinder to protect the flame without overwhelming the space. Lantern candle holders are perfect for indoor or outdoor use, providing a rustic or vintage charm. Taper candle holders are simple and provide soft, ambient light, making them ideal for dining settings.
By considering the type of candle, size, material, and purpose, you can choose a candle holder that suits your needs and enhances your interior decor.
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Frequently asked questions
Candle holders can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, metal, wood, stone, porcelain, plastic, and ceramic.
There are many types of candle holders, including candlesticks, candelabras, taper candle holders, lanterns, sconces, votive candle holders, and hurricane lamps.
Candle holders serve both functional and decorative purposes. They provide support and stability for candles, protect surfaces from dripping wax, and can be used to create a particular ambiance or aesthetic.
