I don't think that there is any way that you can make a six-arm chandelier look good reconfigured as a five-arm chandelier. What you can do is order two more replacement arms to match the one you've already bought and have the arm types alternate all the way around (three replacement arms and three original) or you can replace all of the arms.

Chances are since the chandelier is old you won't be able to find a suitable match for the original arms, so I would do the alternating or replace all of them.

A six arm chandelier can be changed to a five arm one if you take it to the right repair shop. We used to do this years ago and there are still some shops that can remake the fixture. If you can find an older shop, sometimes they would have the arm from another crystal chandelier.

Since I am not sure what area you are in, you can check in your yellow pages. If you want to make sure that they can do the job and the chandelier is not huge, you can bring it in. Also, and most importantly, check around to see if they can give you references or even call the Better Business Bureau.

I know that I read about a sleeve that was being sold in one of the lighting magazines to repair the crystal arms, but I cannot find it at this point in time to refer you to the product.

I know that there are even individuals that do this as a living. One of them in Washington, D. C. does nothing but repair and clean crystal chandeliers for hotels and embassies. You may want to contact a hotel in the area and ask if they use a service for this and get their name.

Remember that if you change it to a five light, they will need to redo the entire fixture by taking it apart, but if they are good at their craft, you will never know the difference. Should you decide to do this, ask them if they also clean the inside of the crystal while they are making the repairs.

Also, I would post a picture of the chandelier and measure the arm. You never know if anyone has something like it that is dropping in on this forum. If they do, you can probably get it and take it to the repair shop.

Charle, ilitem

I live in Raleigh, NC. Thank you for your suggestions and helpful information. I am going to take it to a shop in Greensboro that has been recommended to me. I have spoken to him about the possibility of turning it into a five arm chandelier, and he is open to that but doesn't know where to find a five hole plate to replace the one with six holes that is there now. I've checked some parts catalogs online and that does seem to be something that is hard to find. One place just suggested that I have a machine shop make one. Anyone know of a place to find just a round plate that the arms fit into?

Also, the idea of alternating 3 and 3 arms is interesting and I hadn't thought of that. I was either going to try to reconfigure it with 5 arms or replace all of the arms, and I really hate to do that because these are older, heavier, and have that great vintage look. I will also post a picture soon, as soon as I can get the digital camera away from my husband!

Any other thoughts or suggestions would be most welcome.

The only places that I know of are the actual manufacturers of the parts. They, unfortunately, won't sell just one piece and it doesn't pay to open an account and order more than you need.

I would tell you to try calling one of the crystal chandelier companies and asking if they would be willing to sell you one of them. Try Weiss & Biheller in New York. They don't have a website and are very small. Someone there may be able to help you.

If not, go on line for crystal chandelier manufacturers or try Kirk's Lane (I am not sure that they have a website). (1-800-355-KIRK) Another one that may have it that comes to mind is B&P Lamp Parts Company. If any of them have it, you can find out what it would take to get it. They should have stores that can order parts from them around the country. Ask for their distributors in your area.

Always, remember, being in North Carolina you can check the High Point area to see who has showrooms there also.

I will keep looking for you.

Another thing I forgot, if you have a salvage place around you that has crystal chandeliers (even Salvation Army, Good Will, etc.), you can buy it inexpensively and get the part that you need. We have done this for antique parts many times to fix up a chandelier.

ilitem,

Thank you for all of your suggestions. I will be calling the places you mentioned today. When I see the weight and quality of the new replacement arm I am inspired to forge ahead and try to save what I have!