Chandeliers - are installed electric fixtures that hang from the ceiling. Also known as hard wire products that are wired directly into an electrical source.

Wall Lamps - may either be of the "pin-up" variety or they may be permanently mounted on the wall. Wall sconces, wall brackets and swing arms are all types of wall lamps.

Table Lamps - This is the most common lamp type. Are also knows as portables.

Accent Lamps - These are generally smaller than table lamps and can sometimes a have more decorative look than table lamps.

Buffet Lamps - As their name implies these lamps are generally used on either side of a buffet table. They are sold in sets of two.

Desk Lamps - These are functional lamps; they must give off excellent light for reading.

Floor Lamps - These lamps sit on the floor. They originated from an "overgrown" candle idea. A 3-way lamp has gives off three levels of light, a 6-way lamp gives off six levels of light.

Bridge Lamps - This is another floor standing lamp category. In some styles the bulb hangs down. The "bridge" portion of the lamp hangs over to offer more direct light on a person seated nearby for reading of close work.

Swing-Arm Lamps - The swing-arm can be used on a table, floor or wall lamp. It offers the flexibility of having the light source pivot while the lamp remains stationary.

Boudoir Lamps - These are small versions of table lamps that are used on bedside tables and vanities. They are generally more feminine in character. The vanity pieces are taller than the nightstand pieces.

Torchiere - A floor standing piece topped with a glass bowl. The bowl sits facing the ceiling as to reflect light up onto the ceiling.

Courtesy of Murray Feiss