Hurricane Lamps

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Always in style, hurricane lamps are one of the most versatile design accessories. The soft glow of a flame through glass adds a twinkle of light in dark corners and can be used indoors or outdoors. Use them as table centerpieces, outdoor lanterns or living space accessories. They add charm to a decor whether they’re grouped together or stand on their own. Pretty and practical, fuel-burning or candle hurricane lamps can come in very handy in case of a power outage.

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Vanessa is a New York-based designer specializing in architectural lighting. Whether you are planning an event, want to illuminate your backyard retreat or simply need advice on what lamp to purchase for your bedroom, Vanessa will be more than happy to share her knowledge and expertise.

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Updated 12/07/2023

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Hurricane Lamps

Buying Guide

"Old is gold." This is often true, and that's why antique hurricane lamps are in demand. There's a timeless appeal to antiques, and hurricane lamps serve an essential function of providing a wind-proof light source during blackouts.

As always, buying an antique can be a tricky endeavor. As a way of making things easier, this article is going to provide you with a buying guide to antique hurricane lamps.

What does "antique" really mean?

Keep in mind that "antique" is a broad word. Shopping for an antique hurricane lamp is a lot easier if you know the more precise terms. Most antique dealers would categorize an item into true, vintage and near antique.

True Antique - For many connoisseurs, true antique would mean an item that is more than 100 years old. However, some dealers would consider an item as antique if it’s made before 1930.
Near Antique - A hurricane lamp that is in between 75 - 99 years old.
Vintage - Another broad term to describe certain collectibles. However, the term is typically used to describe items that were produced in the 1940's - 1960's.

What's the condition of the antique hurricane lamp you're looking at?

When shopping for an antique hurricane lamp, another factor that is often brought up is the condition. In most cases, the condition is categorized in mint, excellent, and good.

Good condition often describes a lamp that is in a presentable state. This typically means that it works, but may have noticeable chips and cracks. If an antique hurricane lamp requires any sort of repair, it's also described as in good condition.
Excellent condition is used to describe a lamp that has minor flaws. It may mean that it has some small nicks and chips. Antiques that have recently undergone a repair is also termed as excellent condition.
Mint condition indicates that the antique hurricane lamp comes with no chips, cracks or broken parts. In other words, it's in perfect condition.

What color hurricane lamp should you get?

The glass of the hurricane lamp may come in either clear or colored. The right one for you depends on the primary purpose of the lamp.

Clear is the best option if the priority of the lamp is to provide illumination. A clear glass will allow the maximum amount of light to shine through. A tinted lamp is an excellent choice if the goal of the lamp is to provide aesthetic appeal rather than illumination. The right shade or tint can also help in setting the right mood.

When opting for a tinted lamp, another factor to consider is the color. There are no set-in-stone rules when it comes to choosing the right shade. One way to determine the right color is by knowing a bit of color theory. According to the theory, colors can affect your mood. For example, if you want to set a romantic mood, you may want a glass lamp that comes in the shades of red. Shades of blue are often associated with a relaxed atmosphere. If you want to set a livelier mood, shades of yellow are often recommended.