This light is so gorgeous!! As others have said, the beads are just slightly darker than in the photo - more a light, natural wood color. I was so worried it would be too large, based on the other reviews, but it is perfect in my breakfast nook. We have 9 foot ceilings and hung it 34" above the table. Also, it really does not give off much light. It looks pretty at night because it illuminates the ceiling, but it does not cast much light down on the table itself. That doesn't really bother me, because we also have recessed lighting above the table, but if you need it to light up a dining room, it may not be the best choice. Even so, I'm very happy with this light.