By the early 1800's, most large American cities had public gaslight until electric lighting took its place in the later part of the century. Early electricity, however, was undependable and lighting fixtures that could use both gas and electric became popular, although short-lived.

In general, whether a vintage fixture was "born" electric or gas, is generally determined by which direction the shades face, either up or down. Shades that face upwards were made to accommodate gas jets and are generally larger, usually with 4" fitters. Shades which face downwards were made for electric light bulbs and have smaller 21/4" fitters. Although there are exceptions, it is a good rule of thumb to go by.

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Gas Shades with Matching 21/4" Tulips

Description Gas Shades 4" Fitters Matching Electric Shades 21/4" Fitters Image click to enlarge Part No. Price Add to Cart Image click to enlarge Part No. Price Add to Cart Art Nouveau Floral --satin etched with raised design While supplies last Made in France by the now defunct Vianne glass B08519 $105.00 B08479 $42.00 Victorian Lace -Clear with sandblasted frost B08539 $21.00 B08513 $13.00 Stylized Floral -Clear with sandblasted frost B08557 $21.00 B08558 $13.00 Fleur de Lis -Clear with sandblasted frost B08544 $21.00 B08449 $13.00 Greek Key -Clear with sandblasted frost B08551 $21.00 B08552 $13.00 Victorian -Hand blown, copper wheel engraved, cut and polished B08537 4" fitter $72.00 B08607 $41.00 B08527 5" fitter $81.00 B08507 $80.00 Bell Flower -Hand blown, copper wheel engraved, cut and polished B08535 4" fitter $66.00 B08605 $38.00 B08525 5" fitter $76.00 B08505 $70.00