Everyone can imagine a cozy ski lodge in some ski resort town like Aspen, CO and there are two characteristics that always stick out: the construction is log cabin and there is an antler chandelier. Antler chandeliers do not just belong in ski resorts, but they can make a unique addition to many different rooms of your own home. These chandeliers are made from horns that antler bearing animals shed naturally after mating season. Not only are animals not harmed for the creation of these lighting fixtures, but it is also recycling something from nature.
The largest of this type of chandelier would be made from caribou antlers. These are of the rarest of the antler chandeliers because they are not easily come by considering that the natural habitat of the caribou is areas that are the least inhabited by humans. However hard to come by they are, they are also the most unique and staggering of the antler chandeliers.
The next largest in the pecking order are moose and elk antlers. A moose has wide paddles and short tines, giving a moose antler chandelier a denser light unit. These would be perfect for low light situations such as a cozy den. The elk antler chandelier is quite the opposite with long shafts that lead to the long tines and a broad spread of the entire antler. These offer a less dense lighting fixture, allowing more light to shine through the tines, but they often require more artistic touches and manipulation to sit right in the setting. Elk chandeliers often look quite stunning with their array of tines and fixtures holding them together.
The most common antler chandelier is of the deer. A deer antler chandelier can be found all over the United States due to the overabundance of whitetail deer. You can easily pick one of these chandeliers up at your local outfitter retail store such as Cabelas or online. The deer antlers make for smaller chandeliers, but when combined with multiple antlers can make tiered chandeliers that make a statement as no other lighting fixture can.
Of course, there is an alternative to natural antlers. Faux antler chandeliers are usually less costly than natural antler chandeliers and often weight much less. Some faux chandeliers are extremely well made. They would suit the design needs of people who need a cheaper version of an antler chandelier. They would also suit those who choose to decorate their home free from animal products.
Regardless of your taste or ethical considerations, an antler chandelier will add a touch of elegance and a feel for the outdoors. Many log cabins are graced with the presence of antler chandeliers, especially in their great rooms. Visit your local retailers or shop online for specialty chandeliers. You should not have a problem finding one to fit your taste and décor. Make sure to measure the area you intend to hang the chandelier and compare it against the measurements given by the manufacturer. You do not want something that is going to be too big, too small, hang to high or too low. Your chandelier needs to make a statement.