I think you want the chandy at least 10" narrower than the table, 5" on each side, so people won't hit their head on it.

It depends! I think if it is an open, see through, design then you can go larger. If it is a drum style with a shade then a larger one might start to look like you have a UFO floating over your table.

If you have a good local lighting store, they will usually let you borrow a fixture to bring to your house. This is how I realized that I liked the idea of a drum chandelier, but didn't like it once I brought one home to hold up in the space.

Thank you, thank you! You ladies have been so helpful with your advice. Annie, your "rule" opens up all the chandeliers that I have been wanting but that didn't fall into the "rule" I had read. Chispa, I am having to pick all my light fixtures online because I am in Bar Harbor, Maine and the closest lighting store is in Rockland (very small store 2 hrs away) and Portland (3 hrs away)! But, since I want a very airy fixture, I think I will work with Annie's formula.

It is really hard to match ORB finishes online!