A Genie lamp is the symbolic representation of all that is fantastical and magical, an invisible dream residing within all of us

A genie lamp is commonly associated with the Arabian nights. It is generally thought of as a stout tea pot like object, with a handle and a snout. As legend goes, if one rubs this lamp a genie will appear. After appearing, it will become your slave and grant you three wishes. This of course is the story behind the genie lamp. Reality or fiction? It's just matter of belief !!!

Mostly these lamps have a certain characteristic shape. The ones originally brought from places like Persia etc are made of metals or other precious stones. They may be plain or could have a lot of ornate work on them. Though in the past there was a mystical aura surrounding them. How ever with the passage of time, the legends surrounding it have become a part of fairytales. It is now available commonly, in all shapes and sizes and made of a variety of materials.

The cheap toy versions made of plastic and other materials can be found in many stores at very reasonable prices. They serve as sweet gifts and even as a source of amusement. But the more ornate ones, which have been crafted by master crafts men can only be found in specialty stores or in antique stores. They are also available in various auction houses. The price range can vary from a few hundred dollars to a couple of thousand dollars, or even more.

A beautifully crafted genie lamp depending upon the place where it was made, the workmanship and how old it is, can be a prized collectors items. But one must be very cautious since there are a lot of fakes in the market.

How ever be it a fake or an original, it is one of those few things which still arouse a sense of wonder, awe and fascination. The appeal of a genie lamp cuts across all boundaries and makes us believe once more (albeit for a short while) in a magical and mysterious land. A brief reminder of the innocence of childhood.