Antique Lamps - Emeralite - Perfect Simplicity

The classic blue-green glass shades and unadorned brass bases of Emeralite antique table lamps are easily recognisable.  These are often referred to as ‘banker's lamps' and have a stunning visual impact when used in all kinds of interior design schemes.

Emeralite lamps are now very collectible.  Many people love the simplicity and functionality of these  table lamps. Their value is well-established in auction rooms and antique dealerships and Emeralite lamps have a very loyal following.  Many of the lamps that once occupied inconspicuous places in homes and offices now enjoy pride of place in the museums and private collections around the world.

History of Emeralite Antique Table Lamps

Emeralite lamps were the creation of American Harrison D. McFaddin.  He submitted the patent application for the early version of these lamp designs in 1909.  The same year the first Emeralite lamps were manufactured.  

Records show that the distinctive glass shades for Emeralite lamps were produced in the Czech Republic.  These were almost exclusively manufactured by J. Schreiber & Neffen, a glass factory located in Rapotin, in what was then known as Moravia.  The Emeralite lamps proved so popular that at one point 50% of the huge factory was used purely to producing the glass shades.  There are four main periods in the history of Emeralite production:

4378 Series – this is the first period of Emeralite lamps.  This began from 1909 and went right through to 1916.  The shades from these lamps are distinguished by two opposite holes in the sides. These were used to attach the shade to the armature so that it could be adjusted and then fixed into position.  The early 4378 series Emeralite lamps are some of the most collectible.  Because these are true antique table lamps (over 100 years old) they can fetch some good prices at auction with collectors paying well for the privilege of owning one.

 8734 Series – this is the second period of Emeralite lamps.  Starting from 1916 this lasted through until the early 1930's.  Thousands of lamps were produced during this time and so this is one of the most commonly found examples of Emeralite work.  These lamps can be identified by the indents on the back and sides of the shade.  This enabled the armature to be clamped into place to secure the shade.  This new design meant that the shade was easy to remove for cleaning and repairs which made it much more functional than the 4378 series.

No 9 series – there is some overlap between the second and third period of Emeralite lamps.  The third period started in the early 1930s and lasted until about 1934-5.  The main shape of the lamp was similar to the previous models. However shades in the No 9 series were increased in size and made available in 10 and 12 inch versions.  The larger No 9 series lamps required two bulbs and the clamps were also fastened differently with just one rear attachment.

Modern Series – this last period in Emeralite lamps started in the mid 1930s and continued through to the mid 1950's.  At this time the glass shades were largely replaced by metal versions. The range was also extended to include lamps for draftsmen's tables, typewriter desks and side chairs.  Additions such as clocks, calendar holders and inkwells were also added.

These are not antique table lamps so do not tend to attract the interest of keen Emeralite collectors.  This means that in general the Modern Series has little monetary value and can be picked up very cheaply.  The versions with inkwells tend to fetch the best money at auction if they are in mint condition.  These inkwells were made from glass by the GEM Company or the Sengbusch Self Cleaning Inkstand Co (Wisconsin). You can normally distinguish the manufacturer as the GEM logo was typically stamped on the bottom alongside the Emeralite name.

Buying Emeralite Antique Lamps - Emeralite lamps can be bought from auction houses, antique dealers and private sellers all around the world.  The vast majority of Emeralite lampswere signed.  This took the form of a silver ink stamp on the shade which featured a rectangular or square decal no more than 2 inches wide.  Often the company name was printed on the base of the lamp as well.

When buying Emeralite antique table lamps you do need to research the company history.  Also familiarise yourself with the main styles and designs.  Because Emeralite produced lamps right through to the mid 1950's not all of the lamps in their range will be antique.

This means you will have to know as much as possible about the early periods of the manufacturer if you are looking for Emeralite antique table lamps.  Technically to be an antique the lamp must be 100 years or over.  However it is common for most of the Emeralite table lamps from the first period (1909 to 1916) and second period (1916 to 1930's) to be referred to as antique lamps.