This aluminum candle stand from Century has a sand-casted cup and base.

The latest releases feature handcrafted designs, and utilize wood, metal and stone.

India suppliers of candle stands are leveraging their strength in craftsmanship and rich material variety to come up with visually appealing designs.

At most companies, artisans are showcasing their skills in pieces with manually carved, etched and embossed patterns. Cutwork is likewise done by hand. New designs come in nature-inspired themes with trees, flowers, fruit and animals. Products may have single or multiple holders.

Contemporary styles that resemble staircases, lamps and bird cages are available as well. Rama & Co.’s selection, for example, includes pillar holders that can be disassembled into two or three parts. These boast handetched leaf, floral, geometric and ring designs, and come in earthy hues.

Makers are also adopting a wide range of materials.

Many suppliers are employing mango wood because of its domestic abundance. Renaissance offers both machine- and handcrafted pieces in the material.

For metal releases, brass, aluminum, stainless steel, wrought iron and white metal are the popular options. Ceramic, marble and sandstone are also utilized. Some manufacturers combine two or more materials for better visual effect.

In terms of embellishments, glass beads, mother-of-pearl and crystals are common. These may form various mosaic patterns.

The type of surface treatment improves aesthetics as well. Powder-coating and electroplating, for instance, are done in different hues. Makers also conduct enamelling, oxidizing, sandcasting and lacquering. A distressed finish imparts a vintage look.

Some suppliers apply luster dust on glass releases. A number of metal candle stands are pewter-finished in deep red, copper or bronze.

Most low-end models are small pillar types made of white metal, ceramic, stainless steel, wrought iron or aluminum. Products may be plain, or have minimal designs. Quotes are $1 to $4.

Midrange versions measure 5 to 10in in height and have one to four holders. Mango wood, brass, aluminum, wrought iron and soapstone are the common materials. Carving, etching, embossing and cutwork are often done manually. Several releases are adorned with glass beads, crystals and mother-of-pearl. Models may have a shiny, oxidized or distressed finish or two-tone electroplating. Prices start at $4.10 and top $8.

Upscale versions utilize brass, aluminum, stainless steel and wrought iron. Candelabras can have up to nine holders. They have the same details and adornments as midrange pieces but many boast complex configurations. The height exceeds 10in. Multicolor finishes are prevalent. Products list at $8.10 to $20.

Related report:
Wooden candle holder: Makers underscore safety, 'green' designs

Product gallery

Century Exports (India)
Model: CEI-27739
MOQ: 480 pieces
Delivery: 60 days
Price: $13.80
Description: Aluminum; central pillar, four curved arms; round base; ivory color pewter finish; embossed patterns; 29.5x29.5x46cm

Century Exports (India)
Model: 28170
MOQ: 480 pieces
Delivery: 60 days
Price: $4.95
Description: Aluminum; sand-casted round base, cup; nickel-polished finish; 12x12x20.5cm

Global Glory
Model: GG291329
MOQ: 200 pieces
Delivery: 60 days
Price: $14.50
Description: Wrought iron; black powder-coating; tripod and lantern design; crackled glass jar; 9x9x19.5in

Rama & Co.
Model: 1
MOQ: 500 pieces
Delivery: 60 days
Price: $5.40
Description: Soapstone; chemically dyed; buffed finish; etched leaf pattern; round base, cup; 4x10in; in black

Renaissance
Model: RW-19327
MOQ: 500 pieces
Delivery: 60 days
Price: $5.25
Description: Mango wood; round base, cup; multicolor distressed finish; 15x4.5x4.5in

Renaissance
Model: RW-19343
MOQ: 500 pieces
Delivery: 60 days
Price: $5.25
Description: Mango wood; round base, cup; distressed finish; in white