Candle Holder: What's It Called?

Christopher Jul 29, 2026

Ever found yourself in need of an accessory to beautifully display your candles, enhancing both aesthetic and functionality? You're looking for a candle holder, often called a candle stand or candle sconce. But with numerous types and styles available, the terminology can get a bit confusing. Let's unravel the world of candle holders and explore the various names they go by.

A Guide to the Different Types of Candle Holders
A Guide to the Different Types of Candle Holders

A candle holder, in its broadest sense, is any device used to support and display a candle, preventing it from tipping over and protecting surfaces from wax drippings. However, when we delve deeper into the world of candle holders, we find an array of terms that can cause some bewilderment. So, let's clear the air and explore these names, their origins, and their meanings.

an image of candles and candle holders in the style of art deco, with text that reads
an image of candles and candle holders in the style of art deco, with text that reads

Common Names for Candle Holders

Candle holders are often referred to by their design or function. Let's explore some of the most common terms:

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Old Vintage Candle Holder, Antique Candle Holders Illustration, Ornate Vintage Candlestick, Vintage Baroque Candlesticks, Vintage Metal Candle Holders Collection, Collection Of Vintage Candle Holders, Decoração Praiana, Old Candlestick Holder With Handle, Antique Candle Accessory

1. **Candle Stand/Canisters**: These are standalone structures designed to hold one or more candles. They can be as simple as a metal or glass cylinder or as ornate as a carved wooden piece.

Candle Holders by Material

MCM Folding Candle Holder
MCM Folding Candle Holder

Candle holders are frequently categorized by the material they are made from. Here are a few examples:

1. **Iron Candle Holders**: These are durable, often used outdoors, and can range from simple designs to intricate, decorative pieces.

2. **Glass Candle Holders**: These are usually transparent or colored, allowing for a beautiful display of the flame within. They can be made from materials like clear glass, colored glass, or even stained glass.

37 Stunning DIY Candle Holders From The Community
37 Stunning DIY Candle Holders From The Community

Candle Holders by Design

Candle holders can also be classified by their design:

1. **Tapered Candle Holders**: These have a narrower opening at the top to accommodate tapered candles.

a group of brown candles sitting on top of each other in front of a white background
a group of brown candles sitting on top of each other in front of a white background

2. **Chalice Candle Holders**: Named for their resemblance to a chalice, these have a wide, deep base to hold chunky pillar candles or tealight candles.

Less Common Names for Candle Holders

40 Candle Holders: Bright and Beautiful Ideas
40 Candle Holders: Bright and Beautiful Ideas
Noor Pillar Candleholder Tall, Bone
Noor Pillar Candleholder Tall, Bone
Candlelight Service Candles
Candlelight Service Candles
40 Candle Holder Ideas You'll Want to Copy for Elegant Home Decor and Beautiful Tablescapes
40 Candle Holder Ideas You'll Want to Copy for Elegant Home Decor and Beautiful Tablescapes
Lucille Wood And Firewallglass Candle Holder Minimal Style By Giordano Vigano
Lucille Wood And Firewallglass Candle Holder Minimal Style By Giordano Vigano
Styling with Candle Holders and Stands
Styling with Candle Holders and Stands
two white candles sitting on top of a wooden table next to a vase filled with flowers
two white candles sitting on top of a wooden table next to a vase filled with flowers
How Do I Choose a Candle Holder for My Space?
How Do I Choose a Candle Holder for My Space?

As you dive deeper into the world of candle holders, you might encounter less common terms. Let's explore a couple:

Lanterns

Lanterns are a type of candle holder that encloses the candle in a protective case, often with doors or holes to allow air circulation and viewing of the flame. They can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Sconces

Sconces are candle holders that are designed to be mounted on the wall. They can provide both light and ambiance to a room, and their designs range from simple and understated to elaborate and decorative.

In the end, regardless of what you call them, candle holders serve a functional purpose and can add a touch of elegance or a pop of color to any space. So, next time you're looking to elevate your candle display, remember the wealth of terminology that surrounds these decorative and functional pieces.