Lava Lite Timeline - The 1960s
L E G E N D:
Years
General
Information
Model Names and Numbers
Catalog tidbits
Descriptions
Colors - Lava/Liquid
Variations known or reported
Series numbers, individual model and color/model numbers, size of lamp and type of bulb(s) used will be given, if known.
Years
General
Information
Model Names and Numbers
Catalog tidbits
Descriptions
Colors - Lava/Liquid
Variations known or reported
Series numbers, individual model and color/model numbers, size of lamp and type of bulb(s) used will be given, if known.
Unless otherwise noted, all lamps have a rotary thumb switch on the cord.
The "Color Pak Assortments" were sold to retailers.
List prices are suggested retail at the time, if known.
<< Near 1965 >>
Adolph Wertheimer and Hy Spector see Edward Craven Walker showing his new lamp, the AstroLight, at a German trade show. They purchase exclusive rights to manufacture the lamp in the United States. The first lamps had lava that stayed in a liquid form at all times, which made them difficult to ship, prone to damage by shaking. Rumor has it that bringing the prototype through customs was a hassle; they thought it might be some sort of liquid explosive device.
The US version was christened the Lava Lite and the company took the name Lava Corporation. It was marketed not only as an object of home decor but as decor for restaurants, offices and as an eye-catcher for store displays. Shaped like the original British Astro Lamp but with a 1960s American bent, the first production model in the US was the lamp later named the Century. Like the Astro, the base was made from a single piece of spun metal and had a black plastic tray under the base. The base was given "starlight" perforations, a popular addition for many 1960s American metal lighting fixtures. The 1965 model also had a rotary switch on the side of the base. Full description below under Model 100.
<< Near 1965 >>
Adolph Wertheimer and Hy Spector see Edward Craven Walker showing his new lamp, the AstroLight, at a German trade show. They purchase exclusive rights to manufacture the lamp in the United States. The first lamps had lava that stayed in a liquid form at all times, which made them difficult to ship, prone to damage by shaking. Rumor has it that bringing the prototype through customs was a hassle; they thought it might be some sort of liquid explosive device.
The US version was christened the Lava Lite and the company took the name Lava Corporation. It was marketed not only as an object of home decor but as decor for restaurants, offices and as an eye-catcher for store displays. Shaped like the original British Astro Lamp but with a 1960s American bent, the first production model in the US was the lamp later named the Century. Like the Astro, the base was made from a single piece of spun metal and had a black plastic tray under the base. The base was given "starlight" perforations, a popular addition for many 1960s American metal lighting fixtures. The 1965 model also had a rotary switch on the side of the base. Full description below under Model 100.
"LAVA LITE sells... On sight!"
"You're always right with LAVA LITE!"
<< 1965 >>
Model 100
"America's most exclusive new look in lighting... Adds glamour and interest to any setting!"
The 1965 lamp had a satin copper finish base and cap. It stood 16" tall and 4 1/2" diameter. The base was a cone-on-cone form, widest at the bottom, narrowing near the top, and widening again at the very top - a tall cone topped by a short cone, attached at their narrow ends, with no seam - the base was one piece of spun metal. The lower cone was dotted with pinpoint "starlight" holes. A rotary switch was mounted on the side of the lower cone. This metal base sat on a black plastic tray. The bottle was a cone that had its widest point near the bottom, below which it tapered inward again, and
the black plastic cap, sprayed gold, had a slightly domed flat top.
Not long after the introduction of the Lava Lite, formulas in both the UK and the US were changed so that the lava would solidify when cold, simplifying handling and shipping.
Note on colors: Early on, the lava was called the "base", the liquid called "Lava liquid" or, slightly later, "Master Fluid", the term used by Craven Walker's Crestworth Trading in the UK.
First color range:
Red / Fluorescent Green
Red / Clear
Orange / Yellow
Green / Blue
Yellow / Blue-Green
Cream / Lavender
The earliest known catalog page also shows lamps with colors not listed, perhaps prototype colors. These included: black/clear, red/pale blue, and amber/yellow.
<< Early 1966 >>
The original model was now given a name: the Century. Series 100, for reasons unknown, replaced the cream/lavendar color with a new sixth color. The base was modified to a two-piece design, the top cone being attached to an inner cylinder that slid into the bottom cone. This type dropped the integral rotary switch in place of a switch on the cord. The black plastic tray had sprouted three short feet to raise it slightly off the surface upon which it was placed, and the lamp grew to 17" in height. Base finish stayed satin copper.
#101 Red / Fluorescent Green
#102 Orange / Yellow
#103 Green / Blue
#104 Yellow / Green-Blue
#106 Red / Clear
And the "New Model #105 Champagne Mist!" described as "A cream base in a pale amber liquid - A truly enchanting combination!"
The "mist" colors had hazy (slightly cloudy) liquid. These models with solid lava used a 40 watt standard appliance bulb.
List price: $29.95
<< 1966-1967 >>
The Lava Corporation continued production. A new line of models was introduced.
"From one all-purpose unit to twelve 'decorator inspired' models", proclaimed the LAVA LITER, Lava Corp.'s "magazine" for distributors. "Five new series, and twelve new models in all!" Despite the note of "twelve new models", there were actually thirteen; twelve NEW models plus the Century. The "Color Pak Assortments" are included as reference only, they were sold to stores. The catalog from which most of this was taken was aimed at retailers, rather than consumers. and many of the quotes given reflect that.
The 1000 series:
The Lava Corporation continued production. A new line of models was introduced.
"From one all-purpose unit to twelve 'decorator inspired' models", proclaimed the LAVA LITER, Lava Corp.'s "magazine" for distributors. "Five new series, and twelve new models in all!" Despite the note of "twelve new models", there were actually thirteen; twelve NEW models plus the Century. The "Color Pak Assortments" are included as reference only, they were sold to stores. The catalog from which most of this was taken was aimed at retailers, rather than consumers. and many of the quotes given reflect that.
The 1000 series:
Model 1100 Aristocrat
"Unlimited potential in every market area!"
A more refined look with a cone-on-cone base having a pert "hourglass" figure with a seam at the narrowest point, and using the Century's 52 oz. bottle, this lamp had a white porcelainized base covered in gold drips and drizzles, a finish begun in the 50s on lampshades and modern pottery. This lamp and its companion below are commonly known as the "squiggle" style, but catalogs claimed they had a "gold flecked" finish. The cap on the 1966 Aristocrat was satin goldtone. This model stood 16 1/2" tall, was 6 5/8" dia. and used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#1103 Green / Blue
#1105 Champagne Mist
#1106 Red / Clear
#1107 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color.
List price: $26.95
Model 1200 Decorator
"Ideal for the florist and artificial flowers trade - Selling THROUGH these markets, your retailers make 'plus' sales every time - LAVA LITE sales plus flower sales"
This model was an Aristocrat with a 9 3/4" diameter and approximately 3" deep tray attached at the base's narrow point/seam. It had the same gold drizzles on white porcelainized base and satin gold cap. This lamp was sold WITHOUT any plantings in the tray, thus the enterprising housewife (the catalog's words, not the author's) could change the plantings to suit the mood or occasion. Marketing was steered towards floral shops. The base always had a "Use No Water" sticker on it, indicating that only artificial greenery should be used. Like the Aristocrat, the 1966 Decorator had a gold-finished cap. This lamp used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#1203 Green / Blue
#1205 Champagne Mist
#1106 Red / Clear
List price: $26.95
A known variant has a black porcelainized base and cap with no squiggle paint.
There are a few different tray shapes for Decorators, including:
- Concave bottom, sharp corner, outwardly-slanted side, and rolled rim.
- Flat bottom, curved corner, vertical side and curled rim.
- Flat bottom, curving smoothly up to a rolled rim.
Model 3000 Continental
"Cordless and carefree - offers distributors and dealers a 'two-way' sales and profit opportunity - first in the original sale, second in the replacement candle trade!"
This was a "non-electric" or "cordless" model. It had a small cylindrical bottle and a cap of slightly smaller diameter with a slightly domed flat top, also used in the Consort and many later models. The globe holder was metal collar having a row of cut-out oval vents. This collar screwed onto a glass cup, containing a poured wax candle that provided the heat and light. The candle cup sat on a shallow metal tray. Early catalogs show two versions: First, a bulbous, textured glass cup on a metal tray, with oval vents in the collar; later with a row of alternating diamonds and holes as the vents, a cone-on-cone textured glass cup, widest at a point slightly below-center, with four metal "fin" legs and a metal base tray. Both early and later styles supposedly color-coordinated the liquid/lava colors with the glass color. The metal finish was silver. When purchased, each came with one bottle/cap, base tray and collar, and two glass candle cups. Replacements were sold "at you local Lava Lite dealer". A candle lasted approximately 12 hours. It was then detached from the collar and base tray when burned out, and was thrown away, to be replaced with a new one. The lamp stood 13" tall, was 6" dia. Marketing of this model was suggested for home-and-garden stores, for the "outdoor living" trend that was in full swing.
#3133 Green / Blue - Green glass
#3155 Champagne Mist - Yellow glass
#3166 Red / Clear - Red glass
List price: $14.95
Replacement candle cups: $.99
- Concave bottom, sharp corner, outwardly-slanted side, and rolled rim.
- Flat bottom, curved corner, vertical side and curled rim.
- Flat bottom, curving smoothly up to a rolled rim.
Model 3000 Continental
"Cordless and carefree - offers distributors and dealers a 'two-way' sales and profit opportunity - first in the original sale, second in the replacement candle trade!"
This was a "non-electric" or "cordless" model. It had a small cylindrical bottle and a cap of slightly smaller diameter with a slightly domed flat top, also used in the Consort and many later models. The globe holder was metal collar having a row of cut-out oval vents. This collar screwed onto a glass cup, containing a poured wax candle that provided the heat and light. The candle cup sat on a shallow metal tray. Early catalogs show two versions: First, a bulbous, textured glass cup on a metal tray, with oval vents in the collar; later with a row of alternating diamonds and holes as the vents, a cone-on-cone textured glass cup, widest at a point slightly below-center, with four metal "fin" legs and a metal base tray. Both early and later styles supposedly color-coordinated the liquid/lava colors with the glass color. The metal finish was silver. When purchased, each came with one bottle/cap, base tray and collar, and two glass candle cups. Replacements were sold "at you local Lava Lite dealer". A candle lasted approximately 12 hours. It was then detached from the collar and base tray when burned out, and was thrown away, to be replaced with a new one. The lamp stood 13" tall, was 6" dia. Marketing of this model was suggested for home-and-garden stores, for the "outdoor living" trend that was in full swing.
#3133 Green / Blue - Green glass
#3155 Champagne Mist - Yellow glass
#3166 Red / Clear - Red glass
List price: $14.95
Replacement candle cups: $.99
All known models have a base which used only diamonds as vents, and had a white frosted glass candle cup in a cone-on-cone shape wider in the middle, sitting in a taller tray than earlier styles. The glass cup was actually clear glass, with a thin frosted finish glued on.
Later in 1966, a catalog lists these colors:
Gold finish:
Gold finish:
#3212 Orange / Yellow
#3215 Champagne Mist
#3216 Red / Clear
Silver finish:
Silver finish:
#3222 Orange / Yellow
#3225 Champagne Mist
#3226 Red / Clear
Happy Occasion Pack #3295: Three globes in Champagne Mist, printed with "Happy Birthday", "Happy Anniversary" and "Happy Holiday" in upward-slanted black cursive, one word above the other.
Model 3200 Savoy
This was a version of The Continental, in a gold finish. This lamp was offered only to the restaurant and commercial trade. In homes, these non-electric models were great for travel or garden parties. In the commercial industry, having no cord, they could be placed anywhere, such as upon tables in restaurants or clubs. Other than the metal finish, all the info regarding The Continental, above, applies. So far, none have been found with the colored glass cups.
#3233 Green / Blue - Green glass
#3255 Champagne Mist - Yellow glass
#3266 Red / Clear - Red glass
Model 3200 Savoy
This was a version of The Continental, in a gold finish. This lamp was offered only to the restaurant and commercial trade. In homes, these non-electric models were great for travel or garden parties. In the commercial industry, having no cord, they could be placed anywhere, such as upon tables in restaurants or clubs. Other than the metal finish, all the info regarding The Continental, above, applies. So far, none have been found with the colored glass cups.
#3233 Green / Blue - Green glass
#3255 Champagne Mist - Yellow glass
#3266 Red / Clear - Red glass
Prices - See The Continental, above. Price breaks may have been available as volume prices, when for example a nightclub ordered 40 lamps of assorted colors and 200 extra candle cups, for use on its tables. This must have been spectacular, especially if they added Princess wall sconces, perhaps Consorts on tables against walls, and maybe even an Imperial in the lobby. "The Lava Lounge" anyone?
The 2000 series:
Model 2100 The Princess (wall model)
"Dealers - encourage 'pair' sales for over fireplaces and mantles, as an accent to a cherished portrait or painting"
This was a cylindrical bottle, as was used in The Continental, sitting in a cylindrical cup with a wider top to support the bottle. On the bottom of the cup was a rotary switch, and at one side it was attached, via a short metal stem, to a tall, narrow rectangle of American Walnut, inset with a panel of silver-tone plastic having a small grid pattern. It was provided with a special hanging bracket. The metal was satin silver.
This lamp was 14" tall and used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#1203 Green / Blue
#2105 Champagne Mist
#2106 Red / Clear
There is a rumored variant of this lamp that has a metal stem, extending out from the back-board, then bent upward at a 90 degree angle, attached to the bottom of the lamp's cup where the switch would normally be. No other details are known, nor is this confirmed.
2200 The Consort (table model)
"Modern styling with basic appeal to the masculine market - Ideally suited for retailing through men's smart apparel and gift shops as the new "Executive Tranquilizer"
(Note by author: Did this somehow replace the "Martini Lunch"?)
This was a Princess bottle, cap and cup, set on a short metal stem with a circular gold-tone disk at the base, attached to a 5" square, American Walnut pedestal with very gently sloped upper surfaces. The metal was satin gold. A few late examples of this model used a curved, hourglass-shaped stem minus the disk.
This lamp was 13 3/4" tall and used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#2203 Green / Blue
#2205 Champagne Mist
#2206 Red / Clear
The Meditation Series:
"A new gift item for first communion, confirmations, Bar Mitzvahs, or religious holidays. Perfect for those moments of peace and meditation"
(Note by author: Many churches were built in the "contemporary" style, I bet a few had these - if YOUR local church has closets full of old stuff, ask if anyone remembers one poking about somewhere...)
Model 2300 Prayer Lite with Cross
This lamp had a simple, line-in-outline Cross, black in color, printed onto the globe. All other details, see The Consort, above.
#2303 Green / Blue
#2305 Champagne Mist
#2306 Red / Clear
Model 2400 Prayer Lite with Menorah
Same as above, but had a simple, modern seven-arm Menorah, black in color, printed onto the globe.
(Note by author: Does a proper Menorah not have nine candles?)
#2403 Green / Blue
#2405 Champagne Mist
#2406 Red / Clear
Model 2500 Child's Nite Lite with Clown
"Tailor-made for a fantastically large market!"
This lamp was a Consort with a happy clown, black in color, printed onto the globe. Between his hands were a large and a small sphere, apparently intended to be balls being juggled. A very cute look, thankfully not a "scary clown".
#2503 Green / Blue
#2505 Champagne Mist
#2506 Red / Clear
#2600 - Assortment of 2000 models - 3 model 2200, 1 each 2300, 2400, and 2500 - All in Champagne Mist color
List price, any 2000 model: $16.95
The Royal 4000 series:
Model 4100 Empress
"Regal beauty to reflect the charm and warmth of one's personal good taste"
This is a larger cylinder globe than the above models. It had the same form of cup, though larger, and a real metal cap in a two-stepped design that hinted very slightly at a modern Deco look. The Empress was a wall sconce like The Princess, with a rotary switch below, the cup attached to the back with two metal stems placed one above the other. The back was a tall, narrow American Walnut rectangle, faced with a silver-tone plastic panel with a small grid pattern. The metal was satin silver.
This lamp was 22" tall and used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#4103 Green / Blue
#4105 Champagne Mist
#4106 Red / Clear
Model 4200 Regency
"Tall, stately, elegant"
This lamp was the Empress globe, cup and cap in a satin gold finish, set on a metal stem mounted upon a 5" square American Walnut pedestal like that of The Consort. This lamp was 21 1/2" tall and used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#4203 Blue / Green
#4205 Champagne Mist
#4206 Red / Clear
List price of 4000 series: $29.95
Model 5000 The Imperial
"King-size elegance and beauty"
This incredible model stood an impressive 46 3/4" tall. The globe was a cylinder, the cap a short cylinder with a shallow pointed top and an indented groove at the outer edge. The base was a short cylinder on a cone, narrower at the bottom. The cord was attached at the bottom of the cone. This base sat in a 15" round American Walnut table, with three round, tapered walnut legs splayed outward at a slight angle, each having a brass-tone metal tip with a swivel glider. Early catalogs say it had white enameled metal; all models so far discovered have a satin gold finish. Some Imperials, but not all, had a tiny pinhole in the tip of the cap, and a few had three holes for venting purposes placed on the base cone, immediately beneath the table ring. It used a 150 watt FL-R-40 flood bulb.
#5103 Green / Blue
#5105 Champagne Mist
#5106 Red / Clear
List price: $129.50
<< 1968-1969 >>
Lava Corp. was apparently sold around this time (or bought other companies, or merged with them) and the name was changed. The new Lava-Simplex Inc. comprised three companies joined together. Under the Lava-Simplex name, the three divisions were as follows: Lava Corp; Simplex flashcube cameras;Timette, which produced the "Action Line" of "cordless electric" (meaning battery-powered electromechanical) pendulum clocks. Except in the Savoy/Continental, "Champagne Mist" disappeared, but a new model used the "mist" liquid with some special colors.
The Century, model 100
"The light of a million moving shapes that soothes, intrigues, fascinates, entertains!"
The "new" version used the base with seam, the cones being attached as opposed to the earlier separate upper cone/inner cylinder type, in a satin gold finish with a black plastic tray having three short "feet". This model was 17" tall, 4" in diameter, and used a 40 watt appliance bulb.
#101 Red / Fluorescent Green
#102 Orange / Yellow
#103 Green / Blue
#104 Yellow / Blue-Green
#106 Red / Clear
#107 Color Pak Assortment - 2 each of 03, 1 each of other colors
List price: $29.95
The Aristocrat, model 1100
See The Aristocrat listing, above. All info applies, except the cap now matched the base, being gold squiggle-paint on porcelainized white.
#1102 Orange / Yellow
#1103 Green / Blue
#1106 Red / Clear
#1107 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $26.95
A few of these exist with "starlight" holes in the base. There is a variant of this model, having lemon yellow base and cap with silver squiggles. It may or may not be a factory finish.
The Aristocrat, model 1110
The Aristocrat with a black porcelainized finish with gold squiggles. Like above, the cap matched the base.
#1112 Orange / Yellow
#1113 Green / Blue
#1116 Red / Clear
#1117 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $26.95
A variant has been found with the squiggle paint in black, so it provides only texture. One must look closely to see it.
The Starburst Aristocrat, model 1120
"So named because of the perforated base which gives a starlit appearance, especially in dimly lighted areas"
The Aristocrat updated from the squigglepaint, a hallmark of 1950s lamps, to a purely 60s look. Some time later, the upper edge of the base was lowered slightly - this was also done to The Century. Satin gold base and cap, the base having a pattern of tiny pinholes. One of three "starlight" styles made - the others being the Century and Carlisle.
#1122 Orange / Yellow
#1123 Green / Blue
#1126 Red / Clear
#1127 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $26.95
The Decorator, model 1200
See entry above, all info applies except cap now matches the base.
#1202 Orange / Yellow
#1203 Green / Blue
#1206 Red / Clear
List price: $29.95
The Princess, model 2100
See listing above, all info applies.
#2102 Orange / Yellow
#2103 Green / Blue
#2106 Red / Clear
List price: $18.95
The Consort, model 2200
See listing above, all info applies except 5" square pedestal was now woodgrain plastic. Support stem was now the "hourglass" form, flared slightly at the top and bottom, and the brass disk between stem and base was eliminated.
#2202 Orange / Yellow
#2203 Green / Blue
#2206 Red / Clear
#2207 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $18.95
The Nite Lite, model 2500
"Soft, diffused light to complement the soothing, sleep-provoking 'LAVA LITE' action. The thoughtful touch for child's bedroom or nursery"
See entry above, all info applies except 5" square pedestal was now woodgrain plastic with "hourglass" stem.
#2502 Orange / Yellow
#2503 Green / Blue
#2506 Red / Clear
#2507 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $18.95
The Royal series 4000:
The Regency, model 4200
All info above applies except that the cap was changed: first to a metal cap with a small raised 'button' on top, then to a solid American Walnut cap, cylindrical in form. Pedestal was American Walnut in a step-up design like a mansard roof, 5 3/4" square. Examples exist with either straight or hourglass stems.
#4202 Orange / Yellow
#4203 Green / Blue
#4206 Red / Clear
List price: $29.95
Shortly after, it seems the Royal Series: Regency Model became simply the Royal Model.
The Continental, model 3300
"Use it anywhere...indoors or out...it's cordless and carefree"
The Savoy had been dropped. This model had either gold or silver metal; later, only gold was offered.
#3312 Orange / Yellow
#3315 Champagne Mist
#3316 Red / Clear
List price: $10.95
Replacement candle cups: $.79
The Executive, model 2700
"Fascinating Lava Lite plus two fine Eversharp ball-point pens"
This unique and now very rare model consisted of a Consort bottle, cap and cup, mounted on a short stem. This was attached to the center, toward the back, of a long narrow American Walnut rectangle, and had a brass disk where it joined the base. On either side were mounted Eversharp brand ball-point pens in swivel cups. The pens and cups were black, the swivels goldtone to match the lamp's cup and cap. A pencil rest groove was near the front of the base. 13 1/2" tall, base was 13" by 5 1/2". It used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#2702 Orange / Yellow
#2703 Green / Blue
#2706 Red / Clear
#2707 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $29.95
#3315 Champagne Mist
#3316 Red / Clear
List price: $10.95
Replacement candle cups: $.79
The Executive, model 2700
"Fascinating Lava Lite plus two fine Eversharp ball-point pens"
This unique and now very rare model consisted of a Consort bottle, cap and cup, mounted on a short stem. This was attached to the center, toward the back, of a long narrow American Walnut rectangle, and had a brass disk where it joined the base. On either side were mounted Eversharp brand ball-point pens in swivel cups. The pens and cups were black, the swivels goldtone to match the lamp's cup and cap. A pencil rest groove was near the front of the base. 13 1/2" tall, base was 13" by 5 1/2". It used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#2702 Orange / Yellow
#2703 Green / Blue
#2706 Red / Clear
#2707 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $29.95
Variant: The Executive with Professional Symbol and Eversharp Pen, model 2720
"Fascinating, conversation-making Lava Lite - the lamp of a million moving shapes - with solid American Walnut base and swivel mounted Eversharp ballpoint pen. PLUS 4 1/2" gold finished Justice:
An Executive with one of the pens replaced by a gold metal Justice statue.
The Imperial, model 5000
"Perfect for restaurants, nite clubs and theaters, a must for every hotel and motel lobby. A conversation piece long remembered by every customer and guest"
#5102 Orange / Yellow
#5106 Red / Clear
List price: $179.50
One catalog lists the colors as: orange / clear, red / clear, green / clear.
Series 8000:
"Tall, graceful and elegant, the Enchantress is the newest fascinating addition to the full Lava line"
This pair of models survived as is until the early to mid 1970s, when their look was changed somewhat. These two were sometimes known as the "Elegant". Until their style was changed, they were offered in wild color combinations having "mist" liquid. When showing up on the market, these models aren't clouded from use - they were made that way! The liquid color may fade but the cloudiness is original.
The Enchantress, model 8100
The base is a narrow cone-on-cone. Catalogs show this without any seam, but all models found thus far have a seam. The bottle is a tall, very softly rounded taper. This shape was based on a Crestworth model called the "Mini Astro". Metal finish is satin gold, and the flat-topped conical cap is a gold-tone reeded or striated plastic, sometimes fitted with a metal cover cap. Later units had a black plastic cap, painted gold like a Century cap. 16 1/2" tall, 4 1/8" dia. This lamp used a 40 watt appliance bulb.
#8105 Blue / Blue Mist
#9108 Yellow / Orange Mist
#8109 Mint / Green Mist
#8110 Red / Green Mist
#8107 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 each of 05 and 09, 1 each of 08 and 10.
List price: $21.95
A blue / clear may have been offered. In another wholesale catalog, a version was pictured called the "Enchantress Decorator". This was an 8100 with a base and cap finished in a "scratch-resistant" fuzzy finish, a sprayed-on velvet flocking here called "velvetone". The base was a bizarre color, a shade somewhere between chartreuse and mustard yellow, called "Mexicali Avocado". This lamp was green/green mist, though other colors of wax/liquid and velvet were produced, including rusty copper, tan, and orange velvet.
The Enchantress Planter, model 8200
Same as the 8100, with the addition of a metal tray at the narrow point of the base. Unlike the earlier Decorator, this lamp WAS provided with filling for the bowl.
"Comes complete with lovely, colorful artificial foliage"
This consisted of plastic flowers and greenery attached to a plastic ring. These rings with plastic flowers or foliage were popular for many years, and can still be located at thrift stores. When looking for one, just choose whatever suits your taste. This lamp stood 16" tall, the tray was 6 1/2" dia. and used a 40 watt appliance bulb.
#8205 Blue / Blue Mist
#8208 Yellow / Orange Mist
#8209 Mint / Green Mist
#8210 Red / Green Mist
#8207 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 each of 05 and 09, 1 each of 08 and 10.
List price: $23.95 complete with foliage.
A Blue/Clear may have been offered, as well as a Red/Pink Mist. The Mint/Green Mist was later Lime/Green mist. Also, later, a Green/Blue Mist was offered. There were Velvetone planter models too - they have turned up in terra cotta orange and "Mexicali Avocado". Models having a powdercoat painted finish have turned up in terra cotta orange and brick brown, and one lamp has turned up with a green-brown Velvetone base and a metal cover cap painted glossy blue.
The Glitter Lite (introduced Jan. 1, 1969)
"Twinkling, sparkling, scintillating Glitter Lite - like bits of tinted starlight floating in a brilliant sky! Glitter Lite provides light, motion and brilliant sparkling color. Everchanging, constant action...starts within two minutes. Makes a remarkable conversation piece with unlimited possibilities"
Glitter Lite was the first glitter lamp known to be made in the US, and used a thick, oily liquid. The glitter was extremely fine, like metallic dust, and moved slowly. In operation, the effect is very subtle, but captivating once noticed.
Windsor Glitter Lite, model 300
This was a Consort globe, cap and cup on an "hourglass" stem, set on a beefy 6" round metal base, laminated with a walnut finish, the entire lamp standing 15" tall. The metal was gold-tone and the lamp used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#301 Gold liquid
#302 Silver Liquid
#303 Emerald Liquid
#307 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 of each color
List price: $14.95
A Windsor Lava Lite was produced as well, but specifics are not known.
Enchantress Glitter Lite, model 500
This is The Enchantress 8100 with Glitter Lite inside, and a satin chrome finish metal. Like the Enchantress above, the cap was striated plastic, but here was silver rather than gold. Again, a metal "overcap" was sometimes added. Again, catalogs show no seam at the "pinch" but all known examples have one. 16 1/2" tall, 4 1/8" dia. This lamp was sold with a 40 watt appliance bulb, but a bulb of lower wattage will work and will be safer, to avoid possible overheating or fading.
#501 Gold liquid
#502 Silver liquid
#503 Emerald liquid
#507 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 of each color
List price: $18.95
KaleidoLite (introduced April 1968)
"KaleidoLite is weird, wanton, whimsical and watchable. Ripe for the "in" crowd and in for the ripe crowd!"
(Note from author: That line is a fine example of pure salesmanship!)
This seems to be their first lamp not based on liquid motion. A shorter version of the Consort cup, attached to a metal stem set on a 5 1/2" square American Walnut base in the same "stepped" form as that of the Royal Regency of the 68-69 line and with a brass disk where stem meets base, formed the basis of this lamp, which was topped by a 7" dia. spherical white glass or plastic globe held to the base by three small screws. The entire lamp was 14" tall. Thought the ad copy claims the lamp's multi-color lights were "programmed", in reality the insides were simpler. One version had a simple heat-powered motion lamp assembly: a plastic cylinder with multi-color abstract designs on it, black otherwise, topped by a metal fan blade. In the center was a glass cup or bearing, which rested on a pin point. Rising heat from a light bulb pushed the fan, causing the cylinder to revolve and project the patterns onto the globe. Simple yet effective. Another version had the same cylinder but stationary and with more patterns on top, surrounding five sockets each with a different color of random-blinker bulb.
List price: $14.95
The Mystery Models:
Series 8000:
"Tall, graceful and elegant, the Enchantress is the newest fascinating addition to the full Lava line"
This pair of models survived as is until the early to mid 1970s, when their look was changed somewhat. These two were sometimes known as the "Elegant". Until their style was changed, they were offered in wild color combinations having "mist" liquid. When showing up on the market, these models aren't clouded from use - they were made that way! The liquid color may fade but the cloudiness is original.
The Enchantress, model 8100
The base is a narrow cone-on-cone. Catalogs show this without any seam, but all models found thus far have a seam. The bottle is a tall, very softly rounded taper. This shape was based on a Crestworth model called the "Mini Astro". Metal finish is satin gold, and the flat-topped conical cap is a gold-tone reeded or striated plastic, sometimes fitted with a metal cover cap. Later units had a black plastic cap, painted gold like a Century cap. 16 1/2" tall, 4 1/8" dia. This lamp used a 40 watt appliance bulb.
#8105 Blue / Blue Mist
#9108 Yellow / Orange Mist
#8109 Mint / Green Mist
#8110 Red / Green Mist
#8107 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 each of 05 and 09, 1 each of 08 and 10.
List price: $21.95
A blue / clear may have been offered. In another wholesale catalog, a version was pictured called the "Enchantress Decorator". This was an 8100 with a base and cap finished in a "scratch-resistant" fuzzy finish, a sprayed-on velvet flocking here called "velvetone". The base was a bizarre color, a shade somewhere between chartreuse and mustard yellow, called "Mexicali Avocado". This lamp was green/green mist, though other colors of wax/liquid and velvet were produced, including rusty copper, tan, and orange velvet.
The Enchantress Planter, model 8200
Same as the 8100, with the addition of a metal tray at the narrow point of the base. Unlike the earlier Decorator, this lamp WAS provided with filling for the bowl.
"Comes complete with lovely, colorful artificial foliage"
This consisted of plastic flowers and greenery attached to a plastic ring. These rings with plastic flowers or foliage were popular for many years, and can still be located at thrift stores. When looking for one, just choose whatever suits your taste. This lamp stood 16" tall, the tray was 6 1/2" dia. and used a 40 watt appliance bulb.
#8205 Blue / Blue Mist
#8208 Yellow / Orange Mist
#8209 Mint / Green Mist
#8210 Red / Green Mist
#8207 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 each of 05 and 09, 1 each of 08 and 10.
List price: $23.95 complete with foliage.
A Blue/Clear may have been offered, as well as a Red/Pink Mist. The Mint/Green Mist was later Lime/Green mist. Also, later, a Green/Blue Mist was offered. There were Velvetone planter models too - they have turned up in terra cotta orange and "Mexicali Avocado". Models having a powdercoat painted finish have turned up in terra cotta orange and brick brown, and one lamp has turned up with a green-brown Velvetone base and a metal cover cap painted glossy blue.
The Glitter Lite (introduced Jan. 1, 1969)
"Twinkling, sparkling, scintillating Glitter Lite - like bits of tinted starlight floating in a brilliant sky! Glitter Lite provides light, motion and brilliant sparkling color. Everchanging, constant action...starts within two minutes. Makes a remarkable conversation piece with unlimited possibilities"
Glitter Lite was the first glitter lamp known to be made in the US, and used a thick, oily liquid. The glitter was extremely fine, like metallic dust, and moved slowly. In operation, the effect is very subtle, but captivating once noticed.
Windsor Glitter Lite, model 300
This was a Consort globe, cap and cup on an "hourglass" stem, set on a beefy 6" round metal base, laminated with a walnut finish, the entire lamp standing 15" tall. The metal was gold-tone and the lamp used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#301 Gold liquid
#302 Silver Liquid
#303 Emerald Liquid
#307 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 of each color
List price: $14.95
A Windsor Lava Lite was produced as well, but specifics are not known.
Enchantress Glitter Lite, model 500
This is The Enchantress 8100 with Glitter Lite inside, and a satin chrome finish metal. Like the Enchantress above, the cap was striated plastic, but here was silver rather than gold. Again, a metal "overcap" was sometimes added. Again, catalogs show no seam at the "pinch" but all known examples have one. 16 1/2" tall, 4 1/8" dia. This lamp was sold with a 40 watt appliance bulb, but a bulb of lower wattage will work and will be safer, to avoid possible overheating or fading.
#501 Gold liquid
#502 Silver liquid
#503 Emerald liquid
#507 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 of each color
List price: $18.95
KaleidoLite (introduced April 1968)
"KaleidoLite is weird, wanton, whimsical and watchable. Ripe for the "in" crowd and in for the ripe crowd!"
(Note from author: That line is a fine example of pure salesmanship!)
This seems to be their first lamp not based on liquid motion. A shorter version of the Consort cup, attached to a metal stem set on a 5 1/2" square American Walnut base in the same "stepped" form as that of the Royal Regency of the 68-69 line and with a brass disk where stem meets base, formed the basis of this lamp, which was topped by a 7" dia. spherical white glass or plastic globe held to the base by three small screws. The entire lamp was 14" tall. Thought the ad copy claims the lamp's multi-color lights were "programmed", in reality the insides were simpler. One version had a simple heat-powered motion lamp assembly: a plastic cylinder with multi-color abstract designs on it, black otherwise, topped by a metal fan blade. In the center was a glass cup or bearing, which rested on a pin point. Rising heat from a light bulb pushed the fan, causing the cylinder to revolve and project the patterns onto the globe. Simple yet effective. Another version had the same cylinder but stationary and with more patterns on top, surrounding five sockets each with a different color of random-blinker bulb.
List price: $14.95
The Mystery Models:
The Musical Lamp
This lamp's name has not yet been found, though examples turn up. This rare bird is basically a white/gold squiggle Aristocrat, usually with matching squiggle cap. At the narrow point is an upside-down tray with downward-turned side and no rolled lip. Mounted beneath with two screws are two keywind music boxes, the winding keys (and mounting screws) visible atop the tray. Rumor has it that one played a song by Peter, Paul and Mary. At least two have turned up that played Hickory Dickory Dock. Another has turned up that plays "Mary Had A Little Lamb" and some unknown European lullaby .
The Odd Consort
A standard "Consort" model having a gold finish and straight stem. The base is woodgrained, and may be wood or metal. It flares out and down from the stem, like a trumpet's bell, and then has straight sides about an inch tall down to the table surface.
The Filigree Lamp
A Consort bottle, standing on a fancy filigree cylindrical base in a polished gold finish, with red, blue, green or yellow lava. This stands atop a walnut disk, or a slightly flared woodgrain metal base, both types having a pushbutton switch on the side. Sold as a "Bubble Lamp" Also seen in a variation containing a slow-moving glitter-lamp with oily liquid and "silver flake" glitter, which was sold as a "Starlite Lamp" and contained the same sort of oil and glitter as MasterCrafters clocks and Florence Art Co. glitter lamps. These were sold by Heat Tapes, Inc. of Chicago.
The Volcano Lamp
This model, name unknown, consists of a Consort globe on a base comprising a short cylindrical segment atop a cone, wider at the bottom. The base and cap are black with a wrinklepaint finish. The only known clue to a date is that they usually come with an "Expo 67 Montreal Canada" logo screened in black onto the glass. Collectors sometimes call this a "Volcano", the name being descriptive of the black cone base, but because of the "Expo 67" decal, one collector has named this lamp the "Apollo". The US Pavillion at Expo 67 was dedicated to a space-program display centered around the Apollo capsule.
The Psyche-De-Lite
Sold exclusively through the fan club of what has been called the first psychedelic band, the Blues Magoos. Once the "psychedelic" fad hit, they were heavily marketed with that term. Their fan club was offered the Psyche-De-Lite, an unusual custom Lava Lite that was very similar to the "volcano lamp" above, save that the lower cone was much longer. The base was red, the cap gold-tone, and they had red lava in clear liquid. Supposedly the band toured with "two giant Psyche-De-Lies", and a promotional image shows the band along with an Imperial, a 'volcano', and two red Psyche-De-Lies. Price for fan club members was $9.95.
Info about the Decorator Enchantress model courtesy of Kyle Goo. "Apollo" lamp name coined by Kyle. Thanks Kyle!
Info about the Musical Model, big thanks to Kyle, Pigeon, Plastique-Antique and Fog Rider.
Info about Psyche-De-Lite from Astro, thanks!
Info about the Musical Model, big thanks to Kyle, Pigeon, Plastique-Antique and Fog Rider.
Info about Psyche-De-Lite from Astro, thanks!
Got questions, additions, changes, suggestions?
Email me at jcefoundit@gmail.com!
1966-1967
The Lava Corporation continued production. A new line of models was introduced.
"From one all-purpose unit to twelve 'decorator inspired' models", proclaimed the LAVA LITER, Lava Corp.'s "magazine" for distributors. "Five new series, and twelve new models in all!" Despite the note of "twelve new models", there were actually thirteen: twelve NEW models plus the Century.
The "Color Pak Assortments" are included as reference only, they were sold to stores. The catalog from which most of this was taken was aimed at retailers, rather than consumers. and many of the quotes given reflect that.
The 1000 series:
Model 1100 Aristocrat
"Unlimited potential in every market area!"
A more refined look with a cone-on-cone base having a pert "hourglass" figure with a seam at the narrowest point, and using the Century's 52 oz. bottle, this lamp had a white porcelainized base covered in gold drips and drizzles, a finish begun in the 50s on lampshades and modern pottery. This lamp and its companion below are commonly known as the "squiggle" style, but catalogs claimed they had a "gold flecked" finish. The cap on the 1966 Aristocrat was satin goldtone. This model stood 16 1/2" tall, was 6 5/8" dia. and used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#1103 Green/Blue
#1105 Champagne Mist
#1106 Red/Clear
#1107 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color.
List price: $26.95
Model 1200 Decorator
"Ideal for the florist and artificial flowers trade - Selling THROUGH these markets, your retailers make 'plus' sales every time - LAVA LITE sales plus flower sales"
This model was an Aristocrat with a 9 3/4" diameter and approximately 3" deep tray attached at the base's narrow point/seam. It had the same gold drizzles on white porcelainized base and satin gold cap. This lamp was sold WITHOUT any plantings in the tray, thus the enterprising housewife (the catalog's words, not the author's) could change the plantings to suit the mood or occasion. Marketing was steered towards floral shops. The base always had a "Use No Water" sticker on it, indicating that only artificial greenery should be used. Like the Aristocrat, the 1966 Decorator had a gold-finished cap. This lamp used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#1203 Green/Blue
#1205 Champagne Mist
#1106 Red/Clear
List price: $26.95
A known variant has a black porcelainized base and cap with no squiggle paint.
The Lava Corporation continued production. A new line of models was introduced.
"From one all-purpose unit to twelve 'decorator inspired' models", proclaimed the LAVA LITER, Lava Corp.'s "magazine" for distributors. "Five new series, and twelve new models in all!" Despite the note of "twelve new models", there were actually thirteen: twelve NEW models plus the Century.
The "Color Pak Assortments" are included as reference only, they were sold to stores. The catalog from which most of this was taken was aimed at retailers, rather than consumers. and many of the quotes given reflect that.
The 1000 series:
Model 1100 Aristocrat
"Unlimited potential in every market area!"
A more refined look with a cone-on-cone base having a pert "hourglass" figure with a seam at the narrowest point, and using the Century's 52 oz. bottle, this lamp had a white porcelainized base covered in gold drips and drizzles, a finish begun in the 50s on lampshades and modern pottery. This lamp and its companion below are commonly known as the "squiggle" style, but catalogs claimed they had a "gold flecked" finish. The cap on the 1966 Aristocrat was satin goldtone. This model stood 16 1/2" tall, was 6 5/8" dia. and used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#1103 Green/Blue
#1105 Champagne Mist
#1106 Red/Clear
#1107 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color.
List price: $26.95
Model 1200 Decorator
"Ideal for the florist and artificial flowers trade - Selling THROUGH these markets, your retailers make 'plus' sales every time - LAVA LITE sales plus flower sales"
This model was an Aristocrat with a 9 3/4" diameter and approximately 3" deep tray attached at the base's narrow point/seam. It had the same gold drizzles on white porcelainized base and satin gold cap. This lamp was sold WITHOUT any plantings in the tray, thus the enterprising housewife (the catalog's words, not the author's) could change the plantings to suit the mood or occasion. Marketing was steered towards floral shops. The base always had a "Use No Water" sticker on it, indicating that only artificial greenery should be used. Like the Aristocrat, the 1966 Decorator had a gold-finished cap. This lamp used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#1203 Green/Blue
#1205 Champagne Mist
#1106 Red/Clear
List price: $26.95
A known variant has a black porcelainized base and cap with no squiggle paint.
There are a few different tray shapes for Decorators, including:
- Concave bottom, sharp corner, outwardly-slanted side, and rolled rim.
- Flat bottom, curved corner, vertical side and curled rim.
- Flat bottom, curving smoothly up to a rolled rim.
Model 3000 Continental
"Cordless and carefree - offers distributors and dealers a 'two-way' sales and profit opportunity - first in the original sale, second in the replacement candle trade!"
This was a "non-electric" or "cordless" model. It had a small cylindrical bottle and a cap of slightly smaller diameter with a slightly domed flat top, also used in the Consort and many later models. The globe holder was metal collar having a row of cut-out oval vents. This collar screwed onto a glass cup, containing a poured wax candle that provided the heat and light. The candle cup sat on a shallow metal tray. Early catalogs show two versions: First, a bulbous, textured glass cup on a metal tray, with oval vents in the collar; later with a row of alternating diamonds and holes as the vents, a cone-on-cone textured glass cup, widest at a point slightly below-center, with four metal "fin" legs and a metal base tray. Both early and later styles supposedly color-coordinated the liquid/lava colors with the glass color. The metal finish was silver. When purchased, each came with one bottle/cap, base tray and collar, and two glass candle cups. Replacements were sold "at you local Lava Lite dealer". A candle lasted approximately 12 hours. It was then detached from the collar and base tray when burned out, and was thrown away, to be replaced with a new one. The lamp stood 13" tall, was 6" dia. Marketing of this model was suggested for home-and-garden stores, for the "outdoor living" trend that was in full swing.
#3133 Green/Blue - Green glass
#3155 Champagne Mist - Yellow glass
#3166 Red/Clear - Red glass
List price: $14.95
Replacement candle cups: $.99
- Concave bottom, sharp corner, outwardly-slanted side, and rolled rim.
- Flat bottom, curved corner, vertical side and curled rim.
- Flat bottom, curving smoothly up to a rolled rim.
Model 3000 Continental
"Cordless and carefree - offers distributors and dealers a 'two-way' sales and profit opportunity - first in the original sale, second in the replacement candle trade!"
This was a "non-electric" or "cordless" model. It had a small cylindrical bottle and a cap of slightly smaller diameter with a slightly domed flat top, also used in the Consort and many later models. The globe holder was metal collar having a row of cut-out oval vents. This collar screwed onto a glass cup, containing a poured wax candle that provided the heat and light. The candle cup sat on a shallow metal tray. Early catalogs show two versions: First, a bulbous, textured glass cup on a metal tray, with oval vents in the collar; later with a row of alternating diamonds and holes as the vents, a cone-on-cone textured glass cup, widest at a point slightly below-center, with four metal "fin" legs and a metal base tray. Both early and later styles supposedly color-coordinated the liquid/lava colors with the glass color. The metal finish was silver. When purchased, each came with one bottle/cap, base tray and collar, and two glass candle cups. Replacements were sold "at you local Lava Lite dealer". A candle lasted approximately 12 hours. It was then detached from the collar and base tray when burned out, and was thrown away, to be replaced with a new one. The lamp stood 13" tall, was 6" dia. Marketing of this model was suggested for home-and-garden stores, for the "outdoor living" trend that was in full swing.
#3133 Green/Blue - Green glass
#3155 Champagne Mist - Yellow glass
#3166 Red/Clear - Red glass
List price: $14.95
Replacement candle cups: $.99
All known models have a base which used only diamonds as vents, and had a white frosted glass candle cup in a cone-on-cone shape wider in the middle, sitting in a taller tray than earlier styles. The glass cup was actually clear glass, with a thin frosted finish glued on.
Later in 1966, a catalog lists these colors:
Gold finish:
#3212 Orange/Yellow
#3215 Champagne Mist
#3216 Red/Clear
Silver finish:
#3222 Orange/Yellow
#3225 Champagne Mist
#3226 Red/Clear
Happy Occasion Pack #3295: Three globes in Champagne Mist, printed with "Happy Birthday", "Happy Anniversary" and "Happy Holiday" in upward-slanted black cursive, one word above the other.
Model 3200 Savoy
This was a version of The Continental, in a gold finish. This lamp was offered only to the restaurant and commercial trade. In homes, these non-electric models were great for travel or garden parties. In the commercial industry, having no cord, they could be placed anywhere, such as upon tables in restaurants or clubs. Other than the metal finish, all the info regarding The Continental, above, applies. So far, none have been found with the colored glass cups.
#3233 Green/Blue - Green glass
#3255 Champagne Mist - Yellow glass
#3266 Red/Clear - Red glass
Prices - See The Continental, above. Price breaks may have been available as volume prices, when for example a nightclub ordered 40 lamps of assorted colors and 200 extra candle cups, for use on its tables. This must have been spectacular, especially if they added Princess wall sconces, perhaps Consorts on tables against walls, and maybe even an Imperial in the lobby. "The Lava Lounge" anyone?
The 2000 series:
Model 2100 The Princess (wall model)
"Dealers - encourage 'pair' sales for over fireplaces and mantles, as an accent to a cherished portrait or painting"
This was a cylindrical bottle, as was used in The Continental, sitting in a cylindrical cup with a wider top to support the bottle. On the bottom of the cup was a rotary switch, and at one side it was attached, via a short metal stem, to a tall, narrow rectangle of American Walnut, inset with a panel of silver-tone plastic having a small grid pattern. It was provided with a special hanging bracket. The metal was satin silver.
This lamp was 14" tall and used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#1203 Green/Blue
#2105 Champagne Mist
#2106 Red/Clear
There is a rumored variant of this lamp that has a metal stem, extending out from the back-board, then bent upward at a 90 degree angle, attached to the bottom of the lamp's cup where the switch would normally be. No other details are known, nor is this confirmed.
2200 The Consort (table model)
"Modern styling with basic appeal to the masculine market - Ideally suited for retailing through men's smart apparel and gift shops as the new "Executive Tranquilizer"
(Note by author: Did this somehow replace the "Martini Lunch"?)
This was a Princess bottle, cap and cup, set on a short metal stem with a circular gold-tone disk at the base, attached to a 5" square, American Walnut pedestal with very gently sloped upper surfaces. The metal was satin gold. A few late examples of this model used a curved, hourglass-shaped stem minus the disk.
This lamp was 13 3/4" tall and used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#2203 Green/Blue
#2205 Champagne Mist
#2206 Red/Clear
The Meditation Series:
"A new gift item for first communion, confirmations, Bar Mitzvahs, or religious holidays. Perfect for those moments of peace and meditation"
(Note by author: Many churches were built in the "contemporary" style, I bet a few had these - if YOUR local church has closets full of old stuff, ask if anyone remembers one poking about somewhere...)
Model 2300 Prayer Lite with Cross
This lamp had a simple, line-in-outline Cross, black in color, printed onto the globe. All other details, see The Consort, above.
#2303 Green/Blue
#2305 Champagne Mist
#2306 Red/Clear
Model 2400 Prayer Lite with Menorah
Same as above, but had a simple, modern seven-arm Menorah, black in color, printed onto the globe.
(Note by author: Does a proper Menorah not have nine candles?)
#2403 Green/Blue
#2405 Champagne Mist
#2406 Red/Clear
Model 2500 Child's Nite Lite with Clown
"Tailor-made for a fantastically large market!"
This lamp was a Consort with a happy clown, black in color, printed onto the globe. Between his hands were a large and a small sphere, apparently intended to be balls being juggled. A very cute look, thankfully not a "scary clown".
#2503 Green/Blue
#2505 Champagne Mist
#2506 Red/Clear
#2600 - Assortment of 2000 models - 3 model 2200, 1 each 2300, 2400, and 2500 - All in Champagne Mist color
List price, any 2000 model: $16.95
The Royal 4000 series:
Model 4100 Empress
"Regal beauty to reflect the charm and warmth of one's personal good taste"
This is a larger cylinder globe than the above models. It had the same form of cup, though larger, and a real metal cap in a two-stepped design that hinted very slightly at a modern Deco look. The Empress was a wall sconce like The Princess, with a rotary switch below, the cup attached to the back with two metal stems placed one above the other. The back was a tall, narrow American Walnut rectangle, faced with a silver-tone plastic panel with a small grid pattern. The metal was satin silver.
This lamp was 22" tall and used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#4103 Green/Blue
#4105 Champagne Mist
#4106 Red/Clear
Model 4200 Regency
"Tall, stately, elegant"
This lamp was the Empress globe, cup and cap in a satin gold finish, set on a metal stem mounted upon a 5" square American Walnut pedestal like that of The Consort. This lamp was 21 1/2" tall and used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#4203 Blue/Green
#4205 Champagne Mist
#4206 Red/Clear
List price of 4000 series: $29.95
Model 5000 The Imperial
"King-size elegance and beauty"
This incredible model stood an impressive 46 3/4" tall. The globe was a cylinder, the cap a short cylinder with a shallow pointed top and an indented groove at the outer edge. The base was a short cylinder on a cone, narrower at the bottom. The cord was attached at the bottom of the cone. This base sat in a 15" round American Walnut table, with three round, tapered walnut legs splayed outward at a slight angle, each having a brass-tone metal tip with a swivel glider. Early catalogs say it had white enameled metal; all models so far discovered have a satin gold finish. Some Imperials, but not all, had a tiny pinhole in the tip of the cap, and a few had three holes for venting purposes placed on the base cone, immediately beneath the table ring. It used a 150 watt FL-R-40 flood bulb.
#5103 Green/Blue
#5105 Champagne Mist
#5106 Red/Clear
List price: $129.50
1968-1969
Lava Corp. was apparently sold around this time (or bought other companies, or merged with them) and the name was changed. The new Lava-Simplex Inc. comprised three companies joined together. Under the Lava-Simplex name, the three divisions were as follows: Lava Corp; Simplex flashcube cameras;Timette, which produced the "Action Line" of "cordless electric" (meaning battery-powered electromechanical) pendulum clocks. Except in the Savoy/Continental, "Champagne Mist" disappeared, but a new model used the "mist" liquid with some special colors.
The Century, model 100
"The light of a million moving shapes that soothes, intrigues, fascinates, entertains!"
The "new" version used the base with seam, the cones being attached as opposed to the earlier separate upper cone/inner cylinder type, in a satin gold finish with a black plastic tray having three short "feet". This model was 17" tall, 4" in diameter, and used a 40 watt appliance bulb.
#101 Red/Fluorescent Green
#102 Orange/Yellow
#103 Green/Blue
#104 Yellow/Blue-Green
#106 Red/Clear
#107 Color Pak Assortment - 2 each of 03, 1 each of other colors
List price: $29.95
The Aristocrat, model 1100
See The Aristocrat listing, above. All info applies, except the cap now matched the base, being gold squiggle-paint on porcelainized white.
#1102 Orange/Yellow
#1103 Green/Blue
#1106 Red/Clear
#1107 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $26.95
A few of these exist with "starlight" holes in the base. There is a variant of this model, having lemon yellow base and cap with silver squiggles. It may or may not be a factory finish.
The Aristocrat, model 1110
The Aristocrat with a black porcelainized finish with gold squiggles. Like above, the cap matched the base.
#1112 Orange/Yellow
#1113 Green/Blue
#1116 Red/Clear
#1117 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $26.95
A variant has been found with the squiggle paint in black, so it provides only texture. One must look closely to see it.
The Starburst Aristocrat, model 1120
"So named because of the perforated base which gives a starlit appearance, especially in dimly lighted areas"
The Aristocrat updated from the squigglepaint, a hallmark of 1950s lamps, to a purely 60s look. Some time later, the upper edge of the base was lowered slightly - this was also done to The Century. Satin gold base and cap, the base having a pattern of tiny pinholes. One of three "starlight" styles made - the others being the Century and Carlisle.
#1122 Orange/Yellow
#1123 Green/Blue
#1126 Red/Clear
#1127 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $26.95
The Decorator, model 1200
See entry above, all info applies except cap now matches the base.
#1202 Orange/Yellow
#1203 Green/Blue
#1206 Red/Clear
List price: $29.95
The Princess, model 2100
See listing above, all info applies.
#2102 Orange/Yellow
#2103 Green/Blue
#2106 Red/Clear
List price: $18.95
The Consort, model 2200
See listing above, all info applies except 5" square pedestal was now woodgrain plastic. Support stem was now the "hourglass" form, flared slightly at the top and bottom, and the brass disk between stem and base was eliminated.
#2202 Orange/Yellow
#2203 Green/Blue
#2206 Red/Clear
#2207 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $18.95
The Nite Lite, model 2500
"Soft, diffused light to complement the soothing, sleep-provoking 'LAVA LITE' action. The thoughtful touch for child's bedroom or nursery"
See entry above, all info applies except 5" square pedestal was now woodgrain plastic with "hourglass" stem.
#2502 Orange/Yellow
#2503 Green/Blue
#2506 Red/Clear
#2507 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $18.95
The Royal series 4000:
The Regency, model 4200
All info above applies except that the cap was changed: first to a metal cap with a small raised 'button' on top, then to a solid American Walnut cap, cylindrical in form. Pedestal was American Walnut in a step-up design like a mansard roof, 5 3/4" square. Examples exist with either straight or hourglass stems.
#4202 Orange/Yellow
#4203 Green/Blue
#4206 Red/Clear
List price: $29.95
Shortly after, it seems the Royal Series: Regency Model became simply the Royal Model.
The Continental, model 3300
"Use it anywhere...indoors or out...it's cordless and carefree"
The Savoy had been dropped. This model had either gold or silver metal; later, only gold was offered.
Model 3200 Savoy
This was a version of The Continental, in a gold finish. This lamp was offered only to the restaurant and commercial trade. In homes, these non-electric models were great for travel or garden parties. In the commercial industry, having no cord, they could be placed anywhere, such as upon tables in restaurants or clubs. Other than the metal finish, all the info regarding The Continental, above, applies. So far, none have been found with the colored glass cups.
#3233 Green/Blue - Green glass
#3255 Champagne Mist - Yellow glass
#3266 Red/Clear - Red glass
Prices - See The Continental, above. Price breaks may have been available as volume prices, when for example a nightclub ordered 40 lamps of assorted colors and 200 extra candle cups, for use on its tables. This must have been spectacular, especially if they added Princess wall sconces, perhaps Consorts on tables against walls, and maybe even an Imperial in the lobby. "The Lava Lounge" anyone?
The 2000 series:
Model 2100 The Princess (wall model)
"Dealers - encourage 'pair' sales for over fireplaces and mantles, as an accent to a cherished portrait or painting"
This was a cylindrical bottle, as was used in The Continental, sitting in a cylindrical cup with a wider top to support the bottle. On the bottom of the cup was a rotary switch, and at one side it was attached, via a short metal stem, to a tall, narrow rectangle of American Walnut, inset with a panel of silver-tone plastic having a small grid pattern. It was provided with a special hanging bracket. The metal was satin silver.
This lamp was 14" tall and used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#1203 Green/Blue
#2105 Champagne Mist
#2106 Red/Clear
There is a rumored variant of this lamp that has a metal stem, extending out from the back-board, then bent upward at a 90 degree angle, attached to the bottom of the lamp's cup where the switch would normally be. No other details are known, nor is this confirmed.
2200 The Consort (table model)
"Modern styling with basic appeal to the masculine market - Ideally suited for retailing through men's smart apparel and gift shops as the new "Executive Tranquilizer"
(Note by author: Did this somehow replace the "Martini Lunch"?)
This was a Princess bottle, cap and cup, set on a short metal stem with a circular gold-tone disk at the base, attached to a 5" square, American Walnut pedestal with very gently sloped upper surfaces. The metal was satin gold. A few late examples of this model used a curved, hourglass-shaped stem minus the disk.
This lamp was 13 3/4" tall and used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#2203 Green/Blue
#2205 Champagne Mist
#2206 Red/Clear
The Meditation Series:
"A new gift item for first communion, confirmations, Bar Mitzvahs, or religious holidays. Perfect for those moments of peace and meditation"
(Note by author: Many churches were built in the "contemporary" style, I bet a few had these - if YOUR local church has closets full of old stuff, ask if anyone remembers one poking about somewhere...)
Model 2300 Prayer Lite with Cross
This lamp had a simple, line-in-outline Cross, black in color, printed onto the globe. All other details, see The Consort, above.
#2303 Green/Blue
#2305 Champagne Mist
#2306 Red/Clear
Model 2400 Prayer Lite with Menorah
Same as above, but had a simple, modern seven-arm Menorah, black in color, printed onto the globe.
(Note by author: Does a proper Menorah not have nine candles?)
#2403 Green/Blue
#2405 Champagne Mist
#2406 Red/Clear
Model 2500 Child's Nite Lite with Clown
"Tailor-made for a fantastically large market!"
This lamp was a Consort with a happy clown, black in color, printed onto the globe. Between his hands were a large and a small sphere, apparently intended to be balls being juggled. A very cute look, thankfully not a "scary clown".
#2503 Green/Blue
#2505 Champagne Mist
#2506 Red/Clear
#2600 - Assortment of 2000 models - 3 model 2200, 1 each 2300, 2400, and 2500 - All in Champagne Mist color
List price, any 2000 model: $16.95
The Royal 4000 series:
Model 4100 Empress
"Regal beauty to reflect the charm and warmth of one's personal good taste"
This is a larger cylinder globe than the above models. It had the same form of cup, though larger, and a real metal cap in a two-stepped design that hinted very slightly at a modern Deco look. The Empress was a wall sconce like The Princess, with a rotary switch below, the cup attached to the back with two metal stems placed one above the other. The back was a tall, narrow American Walnut rectangle, faced with a silver-tone plastic panel with a small grid pattern. The metal was satin silver.
This lamp was 22" tall and used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#4103 Green/Blue
#4105 Champagne Mist
#4106 Red/Clear
Model 4200 Regency
"Tall, stately, elegant"
This lamp was the Empress globe, cup and cap in a satin gold finish, set on a metal stem mounted upon a 5" square American Walnut pedestal like that of The Consort. This lamp was 21 1/2" tall and used a 30 watt R-20 reflector bulb.
#4203 Blue/Green
#4205 Champagne Mist
#4206 Red/Clear
List price of 4000 series: $29.95
Model 5000 The Imperial
"King-size elegance and beauty"
This incredible model stood an impressive 46 3/4" tall. The globe was a cylinder, the cap a short cylinder with a shallow pointed top and an indented groove at the outer edge. The base was a short cylinder on a cone, narrower at the bottom. The cord was attached at the bottom of the cone. This base sat in a 15" round American Walnut table, with three round, tapered walnut legs splayed outward at a slight angle, each having a brass-tone metal tip with a swivel glider. Early catalogs say it had white enameled metal; all models so far discovered have a satin gold finish. Some Imperials, but not all, had a tiny pinhole in the tip of the cap, and a few had three holes for venting purposes placed on the base cone, immediately beneath the table ring. It used a 150 watt FL-R-40 flood bulb.
#5103 Green/Blue
#5105 Champagne Mist
#5106 Red/Clear
List price: $129.50
1968-1969
Lava Corp. was apparently sold around this time (or bought other companies, or merged with them) and the name was changed. The new Lava-Simplex Inc. comprised three companies joined together. Under the Lava-Simplex name, the three divisions were as follows: Lava Corp; Simplex flashcube cameras;Timette, which produced the "Action Line" of "cordless electric" (meaning battery-powered electromechanical) pendulum clocks. Except in the Savoy/Continental, "Champagne Mist" disappeared, but a new model used the "mist" liquid with some special colors.
The Century, model 100
"The light of a million moving shapes that soothes, intrigues, fascinates, entertains!"
The "new" version used the base with seam, the cones being attached as opposed to the earlier separate upper cone/inner cylinder type, in a satin gold finish with a black plastic tray having three short "feet". This model was 17" tall, 4" in diameter, and used a 40 watt appliance bulb.
#101 Red/Fluorescent Green
#102 Orange/Yellow
#103 Green/Blue
#104 Yellow/Blue-Green
#106 Red/Clear
#107 Color Pak Assortment - 2 each of 03, 1 each of other colors
List price: $29.95
The Aristocrat, model 1100
See The Aristocrat listing, above. All info applies, except the cap now matched the base, being gold squiggle-paint on porcelainized white.
#1102 Orange/Yellow
#1103 Green/Blue
#1106 Red/Clear
#1107 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $26.95
A few of these exist with "starlight" holes in the base. There is a variant of this model, having lemon yellow base and cap with silver squiggles. It may or may not be a factory finish.
The Aristocrat, model 1110
The Aristocrat with a black porcelainized finish with gold squiggles. Like above, the cap matched the base.
#1112 Orange/Yellow
#1113 Green/Blue
#1116 Red/Clear
#1117 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $26.95
A variant has been found with the squiggle paint in black, so it provides only texture. One must look closely to see it.
The Starburst Aristocrat, model 1120
"So named because of the perforated base which gives a starlit appearance, especially in dimly lighted areas"
The Aristocrat updated from the squigglepaint, a hallmark of 1950s lamps, to a purely 60s look. Some time later, the upper edge of the base was lowered slightly - this was also done to The Century. Satin gold base and cap, the base having a pattern of tiny pinholes. One of three "starlight" styles made - the others being the Century and Carlisle.
#1122 Orange/Yellow
#1123 Green/Blue
#1126 Red/Clear
#1127 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $26.95
The Decorator, model 1200
See entry above, all info applies except cap now matches the base.
#1202 Orange/Yellow
#1203 Green/Blue
#1206 Red/Clear
List price: $29.95
The Princess, model 2100
See listing above, all info applies.
#2102 Orange/Yellow
#2103 Green/Blue
#2106 Red/Clear
List price: $18.95
The Consort, model 2200
See listing above, all info applies except 5" square pedestal was now woodgrain plastic. Support stem was now the "hourglass" form, flared slightly at the top and bottom, and the brass disk between stem and base was eliminated.
#2202 Orange/Yellow
#2203 Green/Blue
#2206 Red/Clear
#2207 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $18.95
The Nite Lite, model 2500
"Soft, diffused light to complement the soothing, sleep-provoking 'LAVA LITE' action. The thoughtful touch for child's bedroom or nursery"
See entry above, all info applies except 5" square pedestal was now woodgrain plastic with "hourglass" stem.
#2502 Orange/Yellow
#2503 Green/Blue
#2506 Red/Clear
#2507 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $18.95
The Royal series 4000:
The Regency, model 4200
All info above applies except that the cap was changed: first to a metal cap with a small raised 'button' on top, then to a solid American Walnut cap, cylindrical in form. Pedestal was American Walnut in a step-up design like a mansard roof, 5 3/4" square. Examples exist with either straight or hourglass stems.
#4202 Orange/Yellow
#4203 Green/Blue
#4206 Red/Clear
List price: $29.95
Shortly after, it seems the Royal Series: Regency Model became simply the Royal Model.
The Continental, model 3300
"Use it anywhere...indoors or out...it's cordless and carefree"
The Savoy had been dropped. This model had either gold or silver metal; later, only gold was offered.
#3312 Orange/Yellow
#3315 Champagne Mist
#3316 Red/Clear
List price: $10.95
Replacement candle cups: $.79
The Executive, model 2700
"Fascinating Lava Lite plus two fine Eversharp ball-point pens"
This unique and now very rare model consisted of a Consort bottle, cap and cup, mounted on a short stem. This was attached to the center, toward the back, of a long narrow American Walnut rectangle, and had a brass disk where it joined the base. On either side were mounted Eversharp brand ball-point pens in swivel cups. The pens and cups were black, the swivels goldtone to match the lamp's cup and cap. A pencil rest groove was near the front of the base. 13 1/2" tall, base was 13" by 5 1/2". It used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#2702 Orange/Yellow
#2703 Green/Blue
#2706 Red/Clear
#2707 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $29.95
#3315 Champagne Mist
#3316 Red/Clear
List price: $10.95
Replacement candle cups: $.79
The Executive, model 2700
"Fascinating Lava Lite plus two fine Eversharp ball-point pens"
This unique and now very rare model consisted of a Consort bottle, cap and cup, mounted on a short stem. This was attached to the center, toward the back, of a long narrow American Walnut rectangle, and had a brass disk where it joined the base. On either side were mounted Eversharp brand ball-point pens in swivel cups. The pens and cups were black, the swivels goldtone to match the lamp's cup and cap. A pencil rest groove was near the front of the base. 13 1/2" tall, base was 13" by 5 1/2". It used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#2702 Orange/Yellow
#2703 Green/Blue
#2706 Red/Clear
#2707 Color Pak Assortment - 2 of each color
List price: $29.95
Variant: The Executive with Professional Symbol and Eversharp Pen, model 2720
"Fascinating, conversation-making Lava Lite - the lamp of a million moving shapes - with solid American Walnut base and swivel mounted Eversharp ballpoint pen. PLUS 4 1/2" gold finished Justice:
An Execurive with one of the pens replaced by a gold metal Justice statue.
All info above applies. Gold-tone metal.
"Perfect for restaurants, nite clubs and theaters, a must for every hotel and motel lobby. A conversation piece long remembered by every customer and guest"
#5102 Orange/Yellow
#5106 Red/Clear
List price: $179.50
One catalog lists the colors as: orange/clear, red/clear, green/clear.
Series 8000:
"Tall, graceful and elegant, the Enchantress is the newest fascinating addition to the full Lava line"
This pair of models survived as is until the early to mid 1970s, when their look was changed somewhat. These two were sometimes known as the "Elegant". Until their style was changed, they were offered in wild color combinations having "mist" liquid. When showing up on the market, these models aren't clouded from use - they were made that way! The liquid color may fade but the cloudiness is original.
The Enchantress, model 8100
The base is a narrow cone-on-cone. Catalogs show this without any seam, but all models found thus far have a seam. The bottle is a tall, very softly rounded taper. This shape was based on a Crestworth model called the "Mini Astro". Metal finish is satin gold, and the flat-topped conical cap is a gold-tone reeded or striated plastic, sometimes fitted with a metal cover cap. Later units had a black plastic cap, painted gold like a Century cap. 16 1/2" tall, 4 1/8" dia. This lamp used a 40 watt appliance bulb.
#8105 Blue/Blue Mist
#9108 Yellow/Orange Mist
#8109 Mint/Green Mist
#8110 Red/Green Mist
#8107 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 each of 05 and 09, 1 each of 08 and 10.
List price: $21.95
A blue/clear may have been offered. In another wholesale catalog, a version was pictured called the "Enchantress Decorator". This was an 8100 with a base and cap finished in a "scratch-resistant" fuzzy finish, a sprayed-on velvet flocking here called "velvetone". The base was a bizarre color, a shade somewhere between chartreuse and mustard yellow, called "Mexicali Avocado". This lamp was green/green mist, though other colors of wax/liquid and velvet were produced, including rusty copper, tan, and orange velvet.
The Enchantress Planter, model 8200
Same as the 8100, with the addition of a metal tray at the narrow point of the base. Unlike the earlier Decorator, this lamp WAS provided with filling for the bowl.
"Comes complete with lovely, colorful artificial foliage"
This consisted of plastic flowers and greenery attached to a plastic ring. These rings with plastic flowers or foliage were popular for many years, and can still be located at thrift stores. When looking for one, just choose whatever suits your taste. This lamp stood 16" tall, the tray was 6 1/2" dia. and used a 40 watt appliance bulb.
#8205 Blue/Blue Mist
#8208 Yellow/Orange Mist
#8209 Mint/Green Mist
#8210 Red/Green Mist
#8207 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 each of 05 and 09, 1 each of 08 and 10.
List price: $23.95 complete with foliage.
A Blue/Clear may have been offered, as well as a Red/Pink Mist. The Mint/Green Mist was later Lime/Green mist. Also, later, a Green/Blue Mist was offered. There were Velvetone planter models too - they have turned up in terra cotta orange and "Mexicali Avocado". Models having a powdercoat painted finish have turned up in terra cotta orange and brick brown, and one lamp has turned up with a green-brown Velvetone base and a metal cover cap painted glossy blue.
The Glitter Lite (introduced Jan. 1, 1969)
"Twinkling, sparkling, scintillating Glitter Lite - like bits of tinted starlight floating in a brilliant sky! Glitter Lite provides light, motion and brilliant sparkling color. Everchanging, constant action...starts within two minutes. Makes a remarkable conversation piece with unlimited possibilities"
Glitter Lite was the first glitter lamp known to be made in the US, and used a thick, oily liquid. The glitter was extremely fine, like metallic dust, and moved slowly. In operation, the effect is very subtle, but captivating once noticed.
Windsor Glitter Lite, model 300
This was a Consort globe, cap and cup on an "hourglass" stem, set on a beefy 6" round metal base, laminated with a walnut finish, the entire lamp standing 15" tall. The metal was gold-tone and the lamp used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#301 Gold liquid
#302 Silver Liquid
#303 Emerald Liquid
#307 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 of each color
List price: $14.95
A Windsor Lava Lite was produced as well, but specifics are not known.
Enchantress Glitter Lite, model 500
This is The Enchantress 8100 with Glitter Lite inside, and a satin chrome finish metal. Like the Enchantress above, the cap was striated plastic, but here was silver rather than gold. Again, a metal "overcap" was sometimes added. Again, catalogs show no seam at the "pinch" but all known examples have one. 16 1/2" tall, 4 1/8" dia. This lamp was sold with a 40 watt appliance bulb, but a bulb of lower wattage will work and will be safer, to avoid possible overheating or fading.
#501 Gold liquid
#502 Silver liquid
#503 Emerald liquid
#507 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 of each color
List price: $18.95
KaleidoLite (introduced April 1968)
"KaleidoLite is weird, wanton, whimsical and watchable. Ripe for the "in" crowd and in for the ripe crowd!"
(Note from author: That line is a fine example of pure salesmanship!)
This seems to be their first lamp not based on liquid motion. A shorter version of the Consort cup, attached to a metal stem set on a 5 1/2" square American Walnut base in the same "stepped" form as that of the Royal Regency of the 68-69 line and with a brass disk where stem meets base, formed the basis of this lamp, which was topped by a 7" dia. spherical white glass or plastic globe held to the base by three small screws. The entire lamp was 14" tall. Thought the ad copy claims the lamp's multi-color lights were "programmed", in reality the insides were simpler. One version had a simple heat-powered motion lamp assembly: a plastic cylinder with multi-color abstract designs on it, black otherwise, topped by a metal fan blade. In the center was a glass cup or bearing, which rested on a pin point. Rising heat from a light bulb pushed the fan, causing the cylinder to revolve and project the patterns onto the globe. Simple yet effective. Another version had the same cylinder but stationary and with more patterns on top, surrounding five sockets each with a different color of random-blinker bulb.
List price: $14.95
The Mystery Models
The Musical Lamp
This lamp's name has not yet been found, though examples turn up. This rare bird is basically a white/gold squiggle Aristocrat, usually with matching squiggle cap. At the narrow point is an upside-down tray with downward-turned side and no rolled lip. Mounted beneath with two screws are two keywind music boxes, the winding keys (and mounting screws) visible atop the tray. Rumor has it that one played a song by Peter, Paul and Mary. At least two have turned up that played Hickory Dickory Dock. Another has turned up that plays "Mary Had A Little Lamb" and some unknown European lullaby .
The Odd Consort
A standard "Consort" model having a gold finish and straight stem. The base is woodgrained, and may be wood or metal. It flares out and down from the stem, like a trumpet's bell, and then has straight sides about an inch tall down to the table surface.
The Filigree Lamp
A Consort bottle, standing on a fancy filigree cylindrical base in a polished gold finish, with red, blue, green or yellow lava. This stands atop a walnut disk, or a slightly flared woodgrain metal base, both types having a pushbutton switch on the side. Sold as a "Bubble Lamp" Also seen in a variation containing a slow-moving glitter-lamp with oily liquid and "silver flake" glitter, which was sold as a "Starlite Lamp" and contained the same sort of oil and glitter as MasterCrafters clocks and Florence Art Co. glitter lamps. These were sold by Heat Tapes, Inc. of Chicago.
The Volcano Lamp
This model, name unknown, consists of a Consort globe on a base comprising a short cylindrical segment atop a cone, wider at the bottom. The base and cap are black with a wrinklepaint finish. The only known clue to a date is that they usually come with an "Expo 67 Montreal Canada" logo screened in black onto the glass. Collectors sometimes call this a "Volcano", the name being descriptive of the black cone base, but because of the "Expo 67" decal, one collector has named this lamp the "Apollo". The US Pavillion at Expo 67 was dedicated to a space-program display centered around the Apollo capsule.
Series 8000:
"Tall, graceful and elegant, the Enchantress is the newest fascinating addition to the full Lava line"
This pair of models survived as is until the early to mid 1970s, when their look was changed somewhat. These two were sometimes known as the "Elegant". Until their style was changed, they were offered in wild color combinations having "mist" liquid. When showing up on the market, these models aren't clouded from use - they were made that way! The liquid color may fade but the cloudiness is original.
The Enchantress, model 8100
The base is a narrow cone-on-cone. Catalogs show this without any seam, but all models found thus far have a seam. The bottle is a tall, very softly rounded taper. This shape was based on a Crestworth model called the "Mini Astro". Metal finish is satin gold, and the flat-topped conical cap is a gold-tone reeded or striated plastic, sometimes fitted with a metal cover cap. Later units had a black plastic cap, painted gold like a Century cap. 16 1/2" tall, 4 1/8" dia. This lamp used a 40 watt appliance bulb.
#8105 Blue/Blue Mist
#9108 Yellow/Orange Mist
#8109 Mint/Green Mist
#8110 Red/Green Mist
#8107 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 each of 05 and 09, 1 each of 08 and 10.
List price: $21.95
A blue/clear may have been offered. In another wholesale catalog, a version was pictured called the "Enchantress Decorator". This was an 8100 with a base and cap finished in a "scratch-resistant" fuzzy finish, a sprayed-on velvet flocking here called "velvetone". The base was a bizarre color, a shade somewhere between chartreuse and mustard yellow, called "Mexicali Avocado". This lamp was green/green mist, though other colors of wax/liquid and velvet were produced, including rusty copper, tan, and orange velvet.
The Enchantress Planter, model 8200
Same as the 8100, with the addition of a metal tray at the narrow point of the base. Unlike the earlier Decorator, this lamp WAS provided with filling for the bowl.
"Comes complete with lovely, colorful artificial foliage"
This consisted of plastic flowers and greenery attached to a plastic ring. These rings with plastic flowers or foliage were popular for many years, and can still be located at thrift stores. When looking for one, just choose whatever suits your taste. This lamp stood 16" tall, the tray was 6 1/2" dia. and used a 40 watt appliance bulb.
#8205 Blue/Blue Mist
#8208 Yellow/Orange Mist
#8209 Mint/Green Mist
#8210 Red/Green Mist
#8207 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 each of 05 and 09, 1 each of 08 and 10.
List price: $23.95 complete with foliage.
A Blue/Clear may have been offered, as well as a Red/Pink Mist. The Mint/Green Mist was later Lime/Green mist. Also, later, a Green/Blue Mist was offered. There were Velvetone planter models too - they have turned up in terra cotta orange and "Mexicali Avocado". Models having a powdercoat painted finish have turned up in terra cotta orange and brick brown, and one lamp has turned up with a green-brown Velvetone base and a metal cover cap painted glossy blue.
The Glitter Lite (introduced Jan. 1, 1969)
"Twinkling, sparkling, scintillating Glitter Lite - like bits of tinted starlight floating in a brilliant sky! Glitter Lite provides light, motion and brilliant sparkling color. Everchanging, constant action...starts within two minutes. Makes a remarkable conversation piece with unlimited possibilities"
Glitter Lite was the first glitter lamp known to be made in the US, and used a thick, oily liquid. The glitter was extremely fine, like metallic dust, and moved slowly. In operation, the effect is very subtle, but captivating once noticed.
Windsor Glitter Lite, model 300
This was a Consort globe, cap and cup on an "hourglass" stem, set on a beefy 6" round metal base, laminated with a walnut finish, the entire lamp standing 15" tall. The metal was gold-tone and the lamp used a 15 watt intermediate base sewing machine bulb.
#301 Gold liquid
#302 Silver Liquid
#303 Emerald Liquid
#307 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 of each color
List price: $14.95
A Windsor Lava Lite was produced as well, but specifics are not known.
Enchantress Glitter Lite, model 500
This is The Enchantress 8100 with Glitter Lite inside, and a satin chrome finish metal. Like the Enchantress above, the cap was striated plastic, but here was silver rather than gold. Again, a metal "overcap" was sometimes added. Again, catalogs show no seam at the "pinch" but all known examples have one. 16 1/2" tall, 4 1/8" dia. This lamp was sold with a 40 watt appliance bulb, but a bulb of lower wattage will work and will be safer, to avoid possible overheating or fading.
#501 Gold liquid
#502 Silver liquid
#503 Emerald liquid
#507 Color Pak Assortment - Contains 2 of each color
List price: $18.95
KaleidoLite (introduced April 1968)
"KaleidoLite is weird, wanton, whimsical and watchable. Ripe for the "in" crowd and in for the ripe crowd!"
(Note from author: That line is a fine example of pure salesmanship!)
This seems to be their first lamp not based on liquid motion. A shorter version of the Consort cup, attached to a metal stem set on a 5 1/2" square American Walnut base in the same "stepped" form as that of the Royal Regency of the 68-69 line and with a brass disk where stem meets base, formed the basis of this lamp, which was topped by a 7" dia. spherical white glass or plastic globe held to the base by three small screws. The entire lamp was 14" tall. Thought the ad copy claims the lamp's multi-color lights were "programmed", in reality the insides were simpler. One version had a simple heat-powered motion lamp assembly: a plastic cylinder with multi-color abstract designs on it, black otherwise, topped by a metal fan blade. In the center was a glass cup or bearing, which rested on a pin point. Rising heat from a light bulb pushed the fan, causing the cylinder to revolve and project the patterns onto the globe. Simple yet effective. Another version had the same cylinder but stationary and with more patterns on top, surrounding five sockets each with a different color of random-blinker bulb.
List price: $14.95
The Mystery Models
The Musical Lamp
This lamp's name has not yet been found, though examples turn up. This rare bird is basically a white/gold squiggle Aristocrat, usually with matching squiggle cap. At the narrow point is an upside-down tray with downward-turned side and no rolled lip. Mounted beneath with two screws are two keywind music boxes, the winding keys (and mounting screws) visible atop the tray. Rumor has it that one played a song by Peter, Paul and Mary. At least two have turned up that played Hickory Dickory Dock. Another has turned up that plays "Mary Had A Little Lamb" and some unknown European lullaby .
The Odd Consort
A standard "Consort" model having a gold finish and straight stem. The base is woodgrained, and may be wood or metal. It flares out and down from the stem, like a trumpet's bell, and then has straight sides about an inch tall down to the table surface.
The Filigree Lamp
A Consort bottle, standing on a fancy filigree cylindrical base in a polished gold finish, with red, blue, green or yellow lava. This stands atop a walnut disk, or a slightly flared woodgrain metal base, both types having a pushbutton switch on the side. Sold as a "Bubble Lamp" Also seen in a variation containing a slow-moving glitter-lamp with oily liquid and "silver flake" glitter, which was sold as a "Starlite Lamp" and contained the same sort of oil and glitter as MasterCrafters clocks and Florence Art Co. glitter lamps. These were sold by Heat Tapes, Inc. of Chicago.
The Volcano Lamp
This model, name unknown, consists of a Consort globe on a base comprising a short cylindrical segment atop a cone, wider at the bottom. The base and cap are black with a wrinklepaint finish. The only known clue to a date is that they usually come with an "Expo 67 Montreal Canada" logo screened in black onto the glass. Collectors sometimes call this a "Volcano", the name being descriptive of the black cone base, but because of the "Expo 67" decal, one collector has named this lamp the "Apollo". The US Pavillion at Expo 67 was dedicated to a space-program display centered around the Apollo capsule.
The Psyche-De-Lite
Sold exclusively through the fan club of what has been called the first psychedelic band, the Blues Magoos. Once the "psychedelic" fad hit, they were heavily marketed with that term. Their fan club was offered the Psyche-De-Lite, an unusual custom Lava Lite that was very similar to the "volcano lamp" above, save that the lower cone was much longer. The base was red, the cap gold-tone, and they had red lava in clear liquid. Supposedly the band toured with "two giant Psyche-De-Lies", and a promotional image shows the band along with an Imperial, a 'volcano', and two red Psyche-De-Lies. Price for fan club members was $9.95.
Got questions, additions, changes, suggestions? Email me at jcefoundit@gmail.com!
Info about the Decorator Enchantress model courtesy of Kyle Goo. "Apollo" lamp name coined by Kyle. Thanks Kyle!
Info about Musical Model, big thanks to Kyle, Pigeon, Plastique-Antique, and Fog Rider.
Info about Psyche-De-Lite from Astro, thanks!
Got questions, additions, changes, suggestions? Email me at jcefoundit@gmail.com!
Info about the Decorator Enchantress model courtesy of Kyle Goo. "Apollo" lamp name coined by Kyle. Thanks Kyle!
Info about Musical Model, big thanks to Kyle, Pigeon, Plastique-Antique, and Fog Rider.
Info about Psyche-De-Lite from Astro, thanks!
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