The egg and dart molding originated-- as most classical molding patterns-- in Ancient Greek times. It was used in many mediums as a decorative device-- it was made from wood, stone, plaster-- anything. It was later on used by the Romans. 

 

The egg and dart molding have strong ties to the Ionic order. The Ionic order is one of 3 orders-- the others being Doric and Corinthian. The way that the Greeks through of the orders is that the Doric order was supposed to represent a strong male spirit-- which is seen in the way the overall order is simple and the way that the columns are flexing in the middle as to look like they are flexing under stress and the heaviness of what they are holding up. The Ionic order is supposed to represent a female spirit in the way that it was still simple, but had more curves to it. The Corinthian order was meant to capture the feeling and essence of a young maiden with how elaborate and whimsical it is. 

If you have a desire for something that is bigger and commends the attention of the space without being too large. The moldings that are perfect for that is the Preston Egg-and-Dart molding. The molding offers a larger angle of lean with the egg-and-dart detail running across the bottom. 

 

The most attention-grabbing moldings are the Classic Egg-and-Dart crown molding and the Beaded Egg-and-Dart molding. These moldings are dramatic, and they are the kinds of moldings that will change the actual architecture of the overall space. It is a great way to do so without having to tear down walls or making huge steps toward renovation. Putting molding up is something that doesn't take nearly as much time as a complete overhaul of the architectural integrity of your home. 

 

To make the crown molding stand out more, you can choose to paint it any color that you like for the different effects that it could have. The moldings can be brightly colored or much more subtle. You could also choose to gold leaf them for a more regal finish.