Candles, with good reason, are often-used decorative accessories on fireplace mantels. Lit candles add flames that complement the glow of a working fireplace, and the candlesticks add height to the mantel display. Yet the candlesticks also need to be of a material that will harmonize with, not work against, your fireplace accessories. You do not want the candlesticks' material to be discordant with the metals of the fireplace screen, fireplace tools, and fireside wood holder.

Brass fireplace screen, tools, and other accessories, whether polished brass or antique brass, always work well with brass candlesticks on the mantel. In informal rooms, wooden candlesticks also fit well with brass fireplace accessories.

You need not be limited to wrought iron or black candlesticks when using black fireplace accessories. Consider coordinating the candlesticks' metal with the other metals in your room and on the mantel. If, for instance, the mantel has a silver bowl, silver candlesticks will look great on the mantel of a fireplace with a black fireplace screen and tools. Likewise, a room with black fireplace accessories but brass lamps and other brass decorative accessories will be perked up with brass candlesticks on the mantel.

Silver-toned fireplace accessories, whether in chrome, brushed steel, or satin nickel, are always complemented with silver-toned candlesticks on the mantel. Crystal or glass candlesticks, because they, too, add sparkle, are delightful with silver-toned fireplace screens, tool sets, and hearth wood holders. If you are fortunate enough to have some old mercury glass candlesticks, by all means use them with use them to decorate the mantel of a fireplace with silver-toned fireplace accessories.

Fireplace accessories, like many home decorative accessories, are now available in bronze and copper finishes. These fireplace accessories have less shine than traditional brass fireplace accessories but more visual warmth and character. With these fireplace accessories, a mix of candlesticks in bronze, copper, and antique brass makes a wonderful mantel display. Wooden candlesticks also work well on the mantel when using bronze or copper fireplace screens, fireplace tools, and fireplace log holders.

Regardless of the finish on your fireplace accessories, be assured that ceramic, porcelain, or painted wood candlesticks that echo the colors in your room are always a safe choice for decorating your fireplace mantel.

Think not only of your mantel but also of its immediate surroundings, the fireplace with its fireplace accessories, when you choose candlesticks for your mantel. The candlesticks need not be "matchy-matchy" with the fireplace accessories, but with some care in selection, the candlesticks will harmonize visually with your fireplace accessories.

Susan Penney appreciates simple ways to make our homes renewing spaces for our families. She invites you to visit FireplaceMall.com for fireplace accessories and for additional fireplace decorating tips.