Gas Lamp Hardware Glossary

Throughout the last several centuries, we have found numerous ways to illuminate the spaces around us. Today, we use a wide variety of electrical light fixtures that allow us to study and work with ease. Before electric lighting, we used kerosene and oil lamps that produced more visible light than candles could. But what came before kerosene and oil? Gas lighting was first introduced in the late 18th century, but it became widely used throughout Europe and North America by the early 19th century. Gas streetlights were used in most major cities. By the end of the Victorian era, gas lighting was common in urban homes. In terms of modern lighting applications, gas lamps provide a delightfully warm glow without the harsh glare that comes with other forms of lighting. If you are restoring an old gas lamp or shopping for replacement parts, you can refer to our gas lamp hardware glossary to help you better understand the components.

Arm: An apparatus that is used to create a distance between the gas lamp and its base or the wall.

Baluster: A short column or pillar that is typically decorative in design and used to support a gas lamp.

Burner: A gas mantle burner that provides a solid, white light without the flickering effect of a flame.

Chimney: A glass apparatus that adorns the upright gas mantle burner.

Chimney Holder: A metal device that is used to securely hold the glass chimney in place.

Dome: Another word for a lampshade, particularly one that takes the shape of a dome.

Finial: A decorative fitting that is used to affix the shade to a light fixture or the lamp harp.

Gas Internals: A copper lamp part that connects the gas valve of a lamp to the main gas supply.

Gasket: A circular piece of material that supports the clear globe of a gas lamp or lantern.

Globe: Another word for a lampshade, particularly one that takes the shape of a ball.

Mantle: A device made of ceramic mesh that is used to generate bright light when heated by a flame. Variations include hard inverted, soft inverted, soft upright, and more.

Rain Shield: A cover or device that is used to protect a gas lamp or the flame from rain and wind.

Reducing Collar: A device that is designed to convert a gas lamp, so it can be used with a specific lamp collar.

Shade: A fitting that diffuses light and decorates the gas lamp. Most glass shades were translucent and often very ornate, with cut glass decoration or etched patterns.

Shade Holder: A metal fitting that supports a glass shade or globe.

Supply Tube: A plain brass, copper, or iron tube that had a tap for switching the gas on and off.

Valve: A device that controls the gas flow from the main gas supply to the burner of a gas lamp.

Wind Guard: A cover or sleeve that is used to protect a gas lamp and its flame from strong wind.

No matter what replacement parts or hardware you are looking for, we have you covered in our selection. If you have any questions about this gas lamp hardware glossary or would like expert assistance in finding the best components for your antique lamp, please contact Antique Lamp Supply today to receive additional information or further assistance.