Glass Student Lampshades for Oil Lamps

Glass Student Shades capture the timeless elegance of 19th and early 20th century oil lamps. These period-correct fixtures were traditionally rendered in white opal glass to optimize light output and green cased glass to direct light downward for task lighting. In addition highly decorative hand painted floral designs were created for the Victorian parlor.  7" oil lamp shades and 10" oil lamp shades are the most commonly used sizes.

The development of these glass student shades improved light output thereby improving the quality of life for many Americans.

How Glass Student Shades improve illumination. Both the shape and the color influenced the light produced. When lit, glass student shades glowed, producing a much larger light, than was previously available from a burning wick within a glass chimney. Better light at night made the dark more bearable and increased productivity. It was now possible to read and do hand-work at night. Rooms were brighter making evening activities possible.

Oil lamp Components

19th century oil lamps were made of brass, glass or nickel. Central to these lamps were oil burners. As time went on many of these oil burners were replaced with electric burners or converted to electricity. Glass chimneys, used to control drafts and protect flame, resided on top of burner and were held in place with tines. Tripods  or spiders and shade rings were then positioned on burners to hold glass student shades.

Glass Student Shades, a much-enjoyed antique style, were originally used on student lamps and oil lamps. Made of glass, in various bottom diameters, with 10” and 7” being the most common sizes. Shades are measured across bottom. These glass shades are blown in a mold which causes slight differences in thickness of glass and actual bottom diameters. The bottom diameter, referred to as the fitter, is typically slightly under-size, this is normal due to glass blowing techniques.

Measure shade holder, if available, to determine sized needed. If lamp will need both holder and shade: 9” – 10” lamp bases typically use 10” student shades while smaller 8”-9” bases often use 7” shades.

Differing Types of Glass Student Shades

Glass student shades glow when lit, intensifying the illumination produced by a burning wick or light bulb. White shades produce a generous overall light, while cased glass types direct light downward offering better task lighting. Most are used on table lamps, however there are also some hanging lights and floor lamps which use this style. Shapes are smooth or embossed, such as hobnail and melon patterns. Tops are flat or crimped. Standard white glass student shades present a neutral appearance and are economically priced. Cased glass styles, typically dark green sandwiched with white glass, complement brass lamps. This style was very popular on early student lamps. The most decorative are those of the Victorian period, each is a work of art, hand painted with beautiful floral designs.