What is the difference between iron and cast iron?

The difference between iron and cast iron comes down to content. Iron is generally pure iron, a chemical element that is a solid metal at room temperature. Cast iron is a mix of iron, carbon, silicon, manganese, sulfur, phosphorus and other elements. Both iron and cast iron can be used to produce furniture, cookware, decorative objects and other items. Generally, cast iron is heavier than iron. Shop an assortment of iron and cast iron pieces on 1stDibs.

Who invented cast iron?

The name of the person who invented cast iron is unknown. However, anthropologists and archaeologists have determined that the ancient Chinese were the first to develop it. The earliest known examples of cast iron date back to the 6th century B.C. Cast iron production didn't begin in Europe until the 14th century A.D. Shop a collection of cast iron furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

What are cast iron columns?

Cast iron columns are vertical supports produced out of cast iron, a material made from iron and alloys with a carbon content of more than two percent. During the 19th century, cast iron columns were used in architecture. Today, they primarily function as decorative objects. Shop a range of cast iron columns on 1stDibs.

Are cast iron columns hollow?

Whether cast iron columns are hollow depends on the piece. Most cast iron columns are hollow due to the manner of crafting, but some are solid. On 1stDibs, find a selection of columns.

Can I use cast iron as a planter?

Yes, you can generally use cast iron as a planter because the material is durable and sturdy. However, you may need to drill drainage holes in a cast iron piece that wasn't intended to function as a planter to allow excess water to exit the vessel. On 1stDibs, find a selection of cast iron planters.

What is a cast iron fireplace insert?

A cast iron fireplace insert is a firebox that fits into an existing fireplace surround. The insert is made of cast iron, a type of iron that is more than 2 percent carbon. Cast iron is highly durable and very resistant to the effects of heat. You'll find a selection of cast iron fireplace inserts on 1stDibs.

What are cast iron trivets used for?

Cast iron trivets are used for many things but are especially ideal for slow cooking meat. They can prop up food in Dutch ovens to prevent burning and increase heat distribution.

When were cast iron doorstops made?

Cast iron doorstops originated in the late 18th century. Osbourn Dursey invented the first doorstop in 1878. Decorative cast iron stops became popular in the 1920s and remained so throughout World War II. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of antique cast iron doorstops.

Is cast iron stronger than steel?

Cast iron is stronger than steel.

How do I keep cast iron from rusting?

To keep a piece made of cast iron from rusting, place it in a cool, dry space with good air circulation.

How do I hang a cast iron bell?

How to hang a cast iron bell depends on the style. Some cast iron bells have loops at the top that you can hang from a hook anchored onto your desired mounting surface. Others have brackets or frames that you can secure with mounting screws. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cast iron bells.

Do cast iron tables rust?

Yes, cast iron tables can rust. Pieces are more likely to develop rust when exposed to humidity, such as in bathrooms or outdoor living spaces in coastal areas. Wiping surfaces clean regularly and touching up scratches and chips can reduce the risk of rust. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cast iron tables.

Do cast iron Firebacks work?

Yes, cast iron firebacks are quite sturdy and work really well. As they are made of solid iron, it's a challenge to move and place them. Given that, cast iron firebacks are the best protection for the back wall of the fireplace. Find a variety of firebacks on 1stDibs.

Does cast-iron furniture rust?

Yes, cast-iron furniture rusts.

Why is cast iron used for fireplaces?

Cast iron is frequently used for fireplaces due to its properties. The metal is highly durable, allowing it to hold up to the effects of frequent use. It also readily conducts heat to help warm up interiors. You'll find a variety of cast iron fireplaces on 1stDibs.

Why is cast iron used for benches?

Cast iron is often used for benches because of its characteristics. Its strength makes it well-suited to support the weight of two or more adults, and its hardness allows it to resist damage due to weather exposure. Shop a range of cast iron benches on 1stDibs.

When were cast iron beds made?

Cast iron beds were made starting in the 1850s. These types of beds were handmade until World War I through the use of molds.

How can you tell the difference between cast iron and wrought iron?

Unlike cast iron, wrought iron is not brittle and will bend rather than break. Wrought ironwork is produced with a hammer and anvil and tends to be more intricate than cast ironwork, which is characterized by repetitive designs that can be carved into a wooden pattern and cast.

Do cast iron umbrella stands rust?

Yes, cast iron umbrella stands and anything made of cast iron can rust. Keeping your cast iron umbrella stand away from moisture and humidity is the best way to keep it from rusting. However, because it is designed to hold wet umbrellas that may be impractical. Some people like to paint cast iron to protect it from rusting. You’ll find a variety of cast iron and other umbrella stands from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Does cast iron garden furniture last?

Whether cast iron garden furniture lasts depends on the quality of the pieces and how well you care for and maintain them over time. Many people choose cast iron, aluminum, wicker or rattan garden furniture for their outdoor patio sets. Shop an assortment of garden furniture on 1stDibs.

Cast Iron Chandeliers

Weight Iron

Szarvasi Lamp

Caged Glass Pendant Light

Blue And White Porcelain Chandelier

Green Enamel Industrial Pendant

Vintage Midcentury Glass Hanging Lamp

Spanish Revival 5 Arm Exposed Bulbs Cast Iron Chandelier

$850

Spanish Revival 5 Arm Exposed Bulbs Cast Iron Chandelier

Located in New York, NY

It is made of cast iron with a gold painted finish. This requires five standard medium base bulbs.

Category

Early 20th Century American Chandeliers and Pendants

Brass, Iron

Large Cast Iron French Chandelier

$28,000

Large Cast Iron French Chandelier

Located in New York, NY

A heavy cast iron chandelier with foliage motif on body and arms.

Materials

Iron

Chianti Lantern Hanging Chandelier in Gold Leaf Finish by Murray Iron Works

$2,650

$12,500

Italian Cast and Hammered Iron Chandelier

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Italian cast and hammered iron chandelier with original paint.

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

$14,659

Paul Kiss, Genet&Michon, Large Art Deco Chandelier, Cast Iron, Molded Glass 1925

By Paul Kiss, Genet & Michon

Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR

Beautiful Circular Art Deco chandelier, in Patinated Cast Iron attributed to Paul Kiss, and Pressed and Molded Glass by Genet & Michon.

Category

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Green Enamel and Cast Iron Industrial Pendant Light, 1960s

$227

Green Enamel and Cast Iron Industrial Pendant Light, 1960s

Located in Kojetice, CZ

Industrial hanging lamp manufactured in Poland during the 1960s. It features a green enamel shade with a white enamel interior, a grey cast iron top, and a clear glass cover. The por...

Category

Mid-20th Century Polish Industrial Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Enamel, Iron

Gray Cast Iron Vintage Industrial Clear Glass Pendant Lamp

$383

$227 / item

Industrial Petrol Enamel Factory Lamp with Cast Iron Top, 1960s

Located in Kojetice, CZ

Industrial petrol (green) enamel pendant light made by Polam Wilkasy in Poland during the 1960s. White enamel inside the shade. Cast iron top. The porcelain socket requires standard ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Polish Industrial Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

$227

Industrial Black Enamel Factory Lamp with Cast Iron Top, 1950s

By Elektrosvit

Located in Kojetice, CZ

Industrial black enamel pendant light made by Elektrosvit in former Czechoslovakia during the 1950s. White enamel inside the shade. Cast iron top. The porcelain socket requires stand...

Category

Mid-20th Century Czech Industrial Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Materials

Iron

Hall, Entry, or Porch Cast Iron with Mica

Unavailable

H 8.5 in W 6 in D 6 in

Hall, Entry, or Porch Cast Iron with Mica

By John C. Virden Co.

Located in Prescott, AZ

Wonderful cast iron flush mount ceiling fixture with entwined ivy leaves. New mica shade fabricated for this fixture. Originally designed as a ceiling porch light, it is so great it ...

Category

Vintage 1920s American American Craftsman Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Iron

Cast Iron Electrified Oil Lamp

Unavailable

H 42 in W 14 in D 14 in

Cast Iron Electrified Oil Lamp

Located in Austin, TX

Cast iron electrified oil lamp with 14" shade featuring hand-painted birds and a weight to adjust the lamp up and down. Iron is a beautiful green color. The smoke reflector is missin...

Category

Vintage 1910s Chandeliers and Pendants

Cast and Wrought Iron Lantern, 19th Century

Unavailable

H 33.86 in W 16.15 in D 16.15 in

Cast and Wrought Iron Lantern, 19th Century

Located in Stamford, GB

A 19th century cast and wrought iron lantern, England, circa 1850. Wired and ready to hang. Ceiling roses, chain and hooks may be ordered separately.

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Wrought Iron

Mid Century 5 Light Cast Iron Ceiling Fixture 1930s

Unavailable

Unavailable

H 15 in Dm 9.5 in

Cast Iron Cage Light with Ribbed Glass

Located in New York, NY

Cast Iron top with ribbed glass, Poland, 1950s.

Materials

Iron, Wrought Iron

Chandelier by Erik Hoglund

Unavailable

H 44.88 in Dm 19.68 in

Chandelier by Erik Hoglund

By Erik Höglund

Located in Janvry, Essonne

A dark grey enameled cast iron candelabra chandelier with 12 arms and 3 sizes glass pendants, the larger pendants with stylized face or fish patterns.

Category

Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Iron

George iv Cast Metal Globe Lantern

Unavailable

H 25.5 in Dm 18 in

George iv Cast Metal Globe Lantern

Located in Dublin port, IE

A George IV cast metal globe lantern.

Category

Antique 1830s Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Iron

1930s Lightolier Luxart Chandelier

Unavailable

H 36 in W 10.5 in D 27 in

1930s Lightolier Luxart Chandelier

By Lightolier

Located in Prescott, AZ

Made of a black painted cast iron frame with vertical "fins" of highly polished aluminum.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Aluminum, Iron

Grand Gothic Revival Chandelier, circa 1880

Unavailable

H 45 in W 36 in D 36 in

Grand Gothic Revival Chandelier, circa 1880

Located in London, GB

An extremely rare and all original 9 branch Victorian Gothic Revival chandelier in original paintwork and gilding. Made in cast iron and having never been converted to electricity st...

Category

Antique 1880s British Gothic Revival Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Iron

1960s Murano Glass Chandelier by Kalmar, Austria

Unavailable

Unavailable

Unavailable

H 54 in Dm 43 in

Chandelier Made by Real Fabrica de Cristales de La Granja, circa 1785

By Real Fábrica de Cristales de La Granja

Located in New York, NY

An Important Antique 18th Century Spanish Three-tier Eight Light Blown Glass Chandelier, Made by the Real Fabrica de Cristales de La Granja for the Palacio Domecq in Jerez de la Fron...

Category

Antique 1780s Spanish Rococo Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Crystal, Iron

Small Industrial Conveyor Belt Chandelier

Unavailable

H 14 in Dm 23 in

Small Industrial Conveyor Belt Chandelier

Located in New York, NY

Factory conveyor belt grating fashioned into chandelier. Reclaimed Cast Iron band at top holds 4 antique pipe fittings with ceramic fixtures.

Category

20th Century American Chandeliers and Pendants

Pair of Vintage Zinc Lanterns

Unavailable

H 24 in W 14 in D 14 in

Pair of Vintage Zinc Lanterns

Located in Encinitas, CA

Pair of Cast Iron Lantern in Zinc Finish with Seeded Glass. 2' chain & canopy included for each. These are about 20 years old. All new wiring & Ul Approved. The Finish is also new. 3...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Iron

Unavailable

H 20 in Dm 17 in

Gothic Tudor Light Fixture

Located in Austin, TX

Old English Tudor style, cast iron, five-light, chandelier with a dark bronze plated finish.

Category

Early 20th Century English Chandeliers and Pendants

1930s MCM Pendant with Custard Glass by Lightolier

Unavailable

H 34 in W 7.25 in D 34 in

1930s MCM Pendant with Custard Glass by Lightolier

By Lightolier

Located in Prescott, AZ

Somewhat Art Deco in flavour and bending toward midcentury, the beauty of these vintage lights will lighten any style of home from Bungalow to Mid-Century Modern. Refinished in the o...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass, Iron

Cast Iron Chandelier

Sold

H 38 in W 42 in D 30 in

Cast Iron Chandelier

Located in Washington, DC

A black painted eight arm heavy cast iron chandelier with large candle lights

Category

Antique 19th Century French Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Iron, Metal

White Painted Cast Iron Chandelier

Sold

H 52 in W 41 in

White Painted Cast Iron Chandelier

Located in Washington, DC

White Painted Cast Iron Chandelier with Flower Motif. New USA wiring.

Category

Vintage 1930s French Chandeliers and Pendants

Iron

Set of 5 Cast Iron Chandeliers

Sold

H 22 in Dm 20.5 in

Set of 5 Cast Iron Chandeliers

Located in New York, NY

Set of 5 American early 20th Century iron chandeliers with intricate open-work and painted details. Each chandelier has 6 interior lights. Available for viewing at our 209 East 59th ...

Materials

Wrought Iron

Hand-Forged Custom Iron "Mercer" Chandelier with Nine Lights

$5,800 / item

$5,020

H 38 in W 31 in D 31 in

19th Century French Wrought Iron Rustic Finish 6 Light Candle Chandelier

Located in Los Angeles, CA

19th Century French Wrought Iron with Rustic Finish 6 Light Candle Chandelier, Flat Bottom, Scrolled Iron Work and Embellished with Twisted Iron Rods Connected to a Crown at Top, can...

Category

Antique 1890s French Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Materials

Velvet

$8,650

H 30.32 in W 74.41 in D 31.11 in

French Brutalist Dining Table in Solid Wood

By Pierre Chapo, Charlotte Perriand

Located in Split, Splitsko-dalmatinska županija

This striking French Brutalist dining table, crafted in the 1950s, is a masterful study of form and function. The monolithic construction and bold architectural lines are enhanced by...

Category

Vintage 1950s French Brutalist Dining Room Tables

Materials

Mahogany

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Cast Iron Chandeliers For Sale on 1stDibs

An assortment of cast iron chandeliers is available at 1stDibs. The range of distinct cast iron chandeliers — often made from metal, iron and glass — can elevate any home. There are 1176 antique and vintage cast iron chandeliers for sale at 1stDibs, while we also have 30 modern editions to choose from as well. Cast iron chandeliers have long been popular, with older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. industrial, Art Deco and Arts and Crafts cast iron chandeliers are consistently popular styles. Many cast iron chandeliers are appealing in their simplicity, but Elektrosvit, Polam Wilkasy and 360volt produced popular cast iron chandeliers that are worth a look.

How Much are Cast Iron Chandeliers?

Cast iron chandeliers can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price at 1stDibs is $589, while the lowest priced sells for $83 and the highest can go for as much as $150,000.

Finding the Right Chandeliers-pendant-lights for You

Chandeliers — simple in form, inspired by candelabras and originally made of wood or iron — first made an appearance in early churches. For those wealthy enough to afford them for their homes in the medieval period, a chandelier's suspended lights likely exuded imminent danger, as lit candles served as the light source for fixtures of the era. Things have thankfully changed since then, and antique chandeliers and pendant lights are popular in many interiors today.

While gas lighting during the late 18th century represented an upgrade for chandeliers — and gas lamps would long inspire Danish architect and pioneering modernist lighting designer Poul Henningsen — it would eventually be replaced with the familiar electric lighting of today.

The key difference between a pendant light and a chandelier is that a pendant incorporates only a single bulb into its design. Don’t mistake this for simplicity, however. An Art Deco–styled homage to Sputnik from Murano glass artisans Giovanni Dalla Fina, with handcrafted decorative elements supported by a chrome frame, is just one stunning example of the elaborate engineering that can be incorporated into every component of a chandelier. (Note: there is more than one lighting fixture that shares its name with the iconic mid-century-era satellite — see Gino Sarfatti’s design too.)

Chandeliers have evolved over time, but their classic elegance has remained unchanged.

Not only will the right chandelier prove impressive in a given room, but it can also offer a certain sense of practicality. These fixtures can easily illuminate an entire space, while their elevated position prevents them from creating glare or straining one’s eyes.

Certain materials, like glass, can complement naturally lit settings without stealing the show. Brass, on the other hand, can introduce an alluring, warm glow. While LEDs have earned a bad reputation for their perceived harsh bluish lights and a loss of brightness over their life span, the right design choices can help harness their lighting potential and create the perfect mood. A careful approach to lighting can transform your room into a peaceful and cozy nook, ideal for napping, reading or working.

For midsize spaces, a wall light or sconce can pull the room together and get the lighting job done. Perforated steel rings underneath five bands of handspun aluminum support a rich diffusion of light within Alvar Aalto's Beehive pendant light, but if you’re looking to brighten a more modest room, perhaps a minimalist solution is what you’re after. The mid-century modern furniture designer Charlotte Perriand devised her CP-1 wall lamps in the 1960s, in which a repositioning of sheet-metal plates can redirect light as needed.

The versatility and variability of these lighting staples mean that, when it comes to finding something like the perfect chandelier, you’ll never be left hanging. From the natural world-inspired designs of the Art Nouveau era to the classic beauty of Paul Ferrante's fixtures, there is a style for every room.

With designs for pendant lights and chandeliers across eras, colors and materials, you’ll never run out of options to explore on 1stDibs — shop a collection today that includes antique Art Deco chandeliers, Stilnovo chandeliers, Baccarat chandeliers and more.

Questions About Cast Iron Chandeliers

What is the difference between iron and cast iron?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
The difference between iron and cast iron comes down to content. Iron is generally pure iron, a chemical element that is a solid metal at room temperature. Cast iron is a mix of iron, carbon, silicon, manganese, sulfur, phosphorus and other elements. Both iron and cast iron can be used to produce furniture, cookware, decorative objects and other items. Generally, cast iron is heavier than iron. Shop an assortment of iron and cast iron pieces on 1stDibs.
Who invented cast iron?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
The name of the person who invented cast iron is unknown. However, anthropologists and archaeologists have determined that the ancient Chinese were the first to develop it. The earliest known examples of cast iron date back to the 6th century B.C. Cast iron production didn't begin in Europe until the 14th century A.D. Shop a collection of cast iron furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
What are cast iron columns?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
Cast iron columns are vertical supports produced out of cast iron, a material made from iron and alloys with a carbon content of more than two percent. During the 19th century, cast iron columns were used in architecture. Today, they primarily function as decorative objects. Shop a range of cast iron columns on 1stDibs.
Are cast iron columns hollow?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
Whether cast iron columns are hollow depends on the piece. Most cast iron columns are hollow due to the manner of crafting, but some are solid. On 1stDibs, find a selection of columns.
Can I use cast iron as a planter?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
Yes, you can generally use cast iron as a planter because the material is durable and sturdy. However, you may need to drill drainage holes in a cast iron piece that wasn't intended to function as a planter to allow excess water to exit the vessel. On 1stDibs, find a selection of cast iron planters.
What is a cast iron fireplace insert?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
A cast iron fireplace insert is a firebox that fits into an existing fireplace surround. The insert is made of cast iron, a type of iron that is more than 2 percent carbon. Cast iron is highly durable and very resistant to the effects of heat. You'll find a selection of cast iron fireplace inserts on 1stDibs.
What are cast iron trivets used for?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
Cast iron trivets are used for many things but are especially ideal for slow cooking meat. They can prop up food in Dutch ovens to prevent burning and increase heat distribution.
When were cast iron doorstops made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Cast iron doorstops originated in the late 18th century. Osbourn Dursey invented the first doorstop in 1878. Decorative cast iron stops became popular in the 1920s and remained so throughout World War II. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of antique cast iron doorstops.
Is cast iron stronger than steel?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Cast iron is stronger than steel.
How do I keep cast iron from rusting?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
To keep a piece made of cast iron from rusting, place it in a cool, dry space with good air circulation.
How do I hang a cast iron bell?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
How to hang a cast iron bell depends on the style. Some cast iron bells have loops at the top that you can hang from a hook anchored onto your desired mounting surface. Others have brackets or frames that you can secure with mounting screws. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cast iron bells.
Do cast iron tables rust?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
Yes, cast iron tables can rust. Pieces are more likely to develop rust when exposed to humidity, such as in bathrooms or outdoor living spaces in coastal areas. Wiping surfaces clean regularly and touching up scratches and chips can reduce the risk of rust. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cast iron tables.
Do cast iron Firebacks work?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 24, 2021
Yes, cast iron firebacks are quite sturdy and work really well. As they are made of solid iron, it's a challenge to move and place them. Given that, cast iron firebacks are the best protection for the back wall of the fireplace. Find a variety of firebacks on 1stDibs.
Does cast-iron furniture rust?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Yes, cast-iron furniture rusts.
Why is cast iron used for fireplaces?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Cast iron is frequently used for fireplaces due to its properties. The metal is highly durable, allowing it to hold up to the effects of frequent use. It also readily conducts heat to help warm up interiors. You'll find a variety of cast iron fireplaces on 1stDibs.
Why is cast iron used for benches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
Cast iron is often used for benches because of its characteristics. Its strength makes it well-suited to support the weight of two or more adults, and its hardness allows it to resist damage due to weather exposure. Shop a range of cast iron benches on 1stDibs.
When were cast iron beds made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Cast iron beds were made starting in the 1850s. These types of beds were handmade until World War I through the use of molds.
How can you tell the difference between cast iron and wrought iron?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Unlike cast iron, wrought iron is not brittle and will bend rather than break. Wrought ironwork is produced with a hammer and anvil and tends to be more intricate than cast ironwork, which is characterized by repetitive designs that can be carved into a wooden pattern and cast.
Do cast iron umbrella stands rust?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, cast iron umbrella stands and anything made of cast iron can rust. Keeping your cast iron umbrella stand away from moisture and humidity is the best way to keep it from rusting. However, because it is designed to hold wet umbrellas that may be impractical. Some people like to paint cast iron to protect it from rusting. You’ll find a variety of cast iron and other umbrella stands from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Does cast iron garden furniture last?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
Whether cast iron garden furniture lasts depends on the quality of the pieces and how well you care for and maintain them over time. Many people choose cast iron, aluminum, wicker or rattan garden furniture for their outdoor patio sets. Shop an assortment of garden furniture on 1stDibs.