Crystal assembly is part of the experience. The chandelier ships with all crystals individually bagged for safe transit. You will hand-attach each crystal using the included small jump rings (similar to tiny keychain rings). Assembly typically takes several hours — please plan time accordingly. Many owners enjoy this final step; the chandelier becomes meaningfully theirs.
Crystal rings — gold by default, silver on request. The Fotini ships with gold-tone jump rings as standard. If you prefer silver-tone rings (for example, to match the Antique Silver finish), please contact us before placing your order so we can arrange the alternative.
Why does the chandelier require assembly? +
Crystal chandeliers are extremely fragile when fully assembled — shipping them pre-attached almost guarantees damage. By packing each crystal individually and including the jump rings, we ensure your chandelier arrives in perfect condition. The trade-off is that you'll spend a few hours hand-attaching the crystals before installation. Many owners find this final step rewarding — your chandelier becomes meaningfully your own.
How long does crystal assembly really take? +
For the Small size, expect roughly 2–3 hours of focused work. For the Large size, expect 4–6 hours — there are significantly more crystals to attach. We recommend doing it at a clean table-top, with bright light, and breaking it into two sessions if needed. Don't rush: each ring needs to close fully so the crystal hangs securely.
I want silver crystal rings instead of gold — how do I order? +
Contact us before placing your order. Send a message via our contact form or email — let us know you'd like silver-tone rings, and we'll confirm availability before you check out. We do not offer the option directly at checkout, so this step must happen first. Otherwise, gold-tone rings will be included by default.
Which size should I choose, and what bulbs do I need? +
Small (∅ 27 cm) uses one E27 bulb — best for entryways, breakfast nooks, small bedrooms, or above bedside tables (paired). Large (∅ 53 cm) uses three E12 candelabra bulbs — best for full dining tables, formal entries, or larger living areas. Note: these bulbs are different sizes — make sure you buy the right base for the size you choose.
Are the crystals real cut crystal or acrylic? +
The shades are real cut crystal — clear, faceted, and weighted. They refract light with the optical clarity and prismatic sparkle that acrylic substitutes cannot reproduce. Each tear-drop is hand-faceted, so subtle differences in cut and clarity between crystals are normal.
What does "antique silver clay" finish mean? +
It's a hand-applied finish that gives the wrought iron a slightly weathered, soft-silver patina — not a high-gloss chrome look. The result reads more elegant and aged, suitable for traditional, transitional, and even some modern interiors. Antique Gold has the same hand-finished character in a warm-gold tone.
Is it dimmable? +
Yes — paired with dimmable LED bulbs (E27 or E12 depending on size) and a TRIAC-compatible wall dimmer (e.g. Lutron Skylark, Leviton Decora), the Fotini dims smoothly. Dimmed crystal light is particularly atmospheric — many owners install on a dimmer for this exact reason.
How do I clean the crystals? +
Switch off the wall power and let the bulbs cool. For light dust, use a soft microfibre cloth or a clean feather duster. For deeper cleaning, gently wipe each crystal with a soft cloth lightly dampened with a 50/50 water-and-isopropyl-alcohol mix — this evaporates cleanly with no residue. Avoid commercial glass sprays directly on the crystals (overspray can affect the iron finish).
What if a crystal breaks or arrives damaged? +
Individual crystals can be replaced. If any crystal is damaged in transit or use, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery with photos and your SKU — we'll arrange a replacement crystal promptly.
