What is a Fitter Neck?
A complete guide to understanding fitter neck sizes, galleries and how to measure your glass shade correctly.
When replacing a glass light shade, one of the most important measurements is the fitter neck. This is the part of the shade that sits into the gallery or shade holder.
Measuring this correctly is essential. If the fitter neck is the wrong size, the shade may not sit securely, may hang unevenly or may not fit the gallery at all.
What is a Fitter Neck?
The fitter neck is the opening at the top of a glass shade where it fits into a gallery or shade holder. It is always measured using the outside diameter of the neck.
Why is the Fitter Neck Important?
Even if two shades look similar, they may not fit the same light fitting if the fitter neck sizes are different. A difference of just a few millimetres can stop the gallery from holding the shade correctly.
This is why the fitter neck should always be checked before ordering a replacement glass shade or gallery.
Step 1 – Remove the Shade
Carefully remove the glass shade from the fitting before measuring. Do not try to measure while the shade is still fitted inside the gallery, as this can give an inaccurate measurement.
Step 2 – Measure the Outside Diameter
Measure across the outside edge of the fitter neck. This is the outside diameter of the neck, not the inside opening.
Do not measure the inside diameter.
For the most accurate result, use a vernier caliper. A ruler or tape measure can also be used if measured carefully.
Step 3 – Record the Measurement
Record the fitter neck size in millimetres. This measurement is used to match the shade to the correct gallery or shade holder.
Example: 80mm fitter neck
Common Fitter Neck Sizes
Some of the most common fitter neck sizes include:
- 57mm
- 80mm
- 100mm
- 150mm
Always measure your shade before ordering, as sizes can vary between traditional, antique and modern fittings.
Fitter Neck vs Shade Diameter
The fitter neck and the overall shade diameter are two completely different measurements.
The fitter neck is the opening at the top of the shade that fits into the gallery. The shade diameter is the widest part of the shade.
Example: A shade may have a 300mm overall diameter but an 80mm fitter neck.
What is a Gallery?
A gallery is the metal shade holder that fits around the fitter neck and holds the glass shade securely in place. Galleries are often used with pendant lights, ceiling lights and traditional fittings.
The gallery size must match the fitter neck size of the glass shade. If the gallery is too small, the shade will not fit. If it is too large, the shade may sit loose or unevenly.
Common Measuring Mistakes
- Measuring the inside of the fitter neck
- Measuring the widest part of the shade instead of the neck
- Guessing the size instead of measuring
- Measuring while the shade is still fitted inside the gallery
- Measuring across the glass at an angle
Can I Use a Larger Gallery?
The gallery should match the fitter neck size as closely as possible. Using the wrong size can cause the shade to sit incorrectly, hang unevenly or become unstable.
Need Help Choosing the Right Size?
If you are unsure which fitter neck size you need, simply send us:
- A photograph of your light fitting
- A photograph of the glass shade
- The fitter neck measurement, if known
- The overall shade diameter, if known
Our experienced team can help identify the correct gallery or replacement shade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the fitter neck measured inside or outside?
Always measure the outside diameter of the fitter neck.
Is the fitter neck the same as the shade diameter?
No. The fitter neck is the top opening that fits into the gallery. The shade diameter is the widest part of the shade.
What are common fitter neck sizes?
Common fitter neck sizes include 57mm, 80mm, 100mm and 150mm.
Can I use a gallery that is slightly bigger?
It is always best to use the correct size. A gallery that is too large may not hold the shade securely.
Can you help identify my shade size?
Yes. Send us photographs of the shade and fitting, along with any measurements you have, and we will help where possible.
Need Advice?
John Moncrieff supplies a wide range of glass shades and galleries for traditional and contemporary lighting. If you are unsure which fitter neck size you need, our team will be happy to help.