As autumn leaves begin to fall and winter winds start to blow, people everywhere turn their eyes to the sky, wondering what the weather will bring. In our modern era, a quick glance at a smartphone app can provide instant, accurate forecasts. But before the advent of digital technology, how did people predict the weather? Enter the storm glass, a captivating device that has captured imaginations for centuries, despite its questionable accuracy.

In this article, we’ll explore the storm glass in all its facets—from its historical origins to its modern-day renaissance, along with how this ‘glass barometer’ of sorts works.

What Is a Weather Predicting Storm Glass

The storm glass dates back to the 1700s but gained significant attention in the 1800s, thanks to Admiral Robert FitzRoy. Known for captaining the HMS Beagle during Charles Darwin’s famous voyage, FitzRoy had many talents, including meteorology. He became enamored with using a special blend of chemicals in a sealed glass to predict the weather as an outdoor thermometer/weather station. This device, later known as the FitzRoy storm glass, was adopted by the British Navy and used extensively during the 19th century.

Despite its naval applications, the storm glass eventually fell out of favor as more accurate meteorological tools were developed. However, it has found a second life as a decorative piece in recent years, appreciated more for its aesthetic qualities and historical significance than its predictive accuracy.

I’ve been making storm glass since 2017 and have sold hundreds of these. They make the best handmade gift for a weather enthusiast, geek, nerd, or anyone interested in the gorgeous visuals Storm Glass shares with the world. It’s an excellent cold-weather gift, and especially good if you live in the cooler mountainous areas where you get a chilly night/morning. These also work great in and around the garden (keep out of reach from children!)

Where can I buy a storm glass?

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How Does a Storm Glass Work?

At its core, a storm glass works with a mixture of chemicals such as ethanol, distilled water, ammonium chloride, potassium nitrate, and camphor. These chemicals react to environmental changes like temperature and pressure, leading to fascinating crystal formations inside the sealed glass chamber, sort of like a weather bottle.

How To Read a Storm Glass

Is Storm Glass Liquid Dangerous?

Is storm glass dangerous? You probably don’t want to find out. It’s going to really hurt your tummy!

While the storm glass was initially thought to be a reliable weather predictor, modern scientific evaluations have largely debunked this claim. Studies have shown that the device is more of a “rude thermoscope,” sensitive mostly to temperature changes, rather than a reliable predictor of weather conditions.

A Unique Gift For Weather Enthusiasts

Weather enthusiasts come from all walks of life, from amateur meteorologists to professional scientists. Some may be interested in the science behind weather, while others may simply enjoy tracking and predicting the weather for personal or practical reasons. Many weather enthusiasts also enjoy sharing their observations and predictions with others through social media, weather websites, and local weather groups. What better than to get them storm glass, where every day there is a new observation to be made?

It’s kind of a weird thing to sell, right? Who wants an inaccurate weather device? Storm glass is much more about aesthetics than meteorology. Safe to say it still makes for a great meteorologist gift if you know one! Or if you need a gift for a weather enthusiast. Heck, you don’t even need to be into weather to appreciate it, we get plenty of requests for gifts for dads who want nothing for their birthday or the holidays! It works because it’s not a run-of-the-mill thing you can find in a store. It is hand made, special, and one of the kind. 

Storm glass is rooted in beauty, and appreciation, and is only a suggestion of the current environment. Wondering where to buy storm glass? Check the picture down below!

See Our Famous Storm Glass on Etsy!

Introduction To Storm Glass

It all started at a boating supplies store in Manhattan (weird but true). This was my first real job. There was a wall of decorative brass clocks, Galileo thermometers, bells, brass barometers, inclinometers, and at the bottom a tube of liquid that had snow-like crystals inside. I opened the store catalogue and found the contraption, storm glass. I wondered what is a storm glass weather predictor, and quickly forgot about it for a long time.

Eventually the storm glass on the wall made its way to the store’s window display case. Periodically, I’d watch how it changes with the temperature changes. I can’t express how many customers came to me trying to figure out a good gift for a boater or weather enthusiast. Eventually I started pointing people towards storm glass because it is a unique gift for that someone that ‘has it all’ already. It’s perfect if you’ve got someone who would appreciate weather gifts or science gifts. 

 

 

The Storm Glass Today: A Gift and Conversation Starter

Despite its limitations, the storm glass has not lost its allure. Many find its mysterious crystal formations fascinating, making it a perfect gift for weather or science enthusiasts. Its elegant design and mesmerizing changes offer a unique blend of science and art, making it a wonderful addition to any room.

The storm glass also serves as an educational tool. For those keen on the principles of thermodynamics and atmospheric conditions, the storm glass provides a hands-on experience of how certain chemicals react to environmental changes.

• Conversation Starter: A storm glass is a fantastic conversation piece. Its elegant design and mesmerizing crystal formations are bound to attract attention and spark curiosity. When displayed in a living room, office, or even a bedroom, it becomes a focal point that invites discussion and storytelling.

• Captivating Science: The science behind storm glass is both enchanting and educational. By giving a storm glass as a gift, you’re offering the recipient the opportunity to explore the principles of thermodynamics and atmospheric conditions. They can delve into the mysteries of crystal formations and discover the art of weather prediction, all while having fun and expanding their knowledge.

• Unique Decor: Storm glass adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space. With its sleek design and crystal-filled chamber, it effortlessly enhances the ambiance of a room. Whether the recipient’s style is modern, vintage, or eclectic, a storm glass complements various interior design themes and becomes an eye-catching element in their home or workspace.

• Practical Functionality: While storm glass is undoubtedly a decorative item, it also serves a practical purpose. The recipient can use it as a weather forecasting tool, providing them with valuable insights into upcoming weather conditions. Whether they enjoy outdoor activities, gardening, or simply want to be prepared for the day ahead, the storm glass will be their trusty companion in planning and decision-making.

• Thoughtful Symbolism: Beyond its aesthetic and functional appeal, a storm glass carries symbolism and meaning. It represents the recipient’s curiosity, love for nature, and appreciation for the wonders of the world. It shows that you’ve taken the time to find a gift that aligns with their interests and passions, making it all the more thoughtful and heartfelt.

• Suitable for Various Occasions: A storm glass is a versatile gift that suits various occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or a holiday, it’s a unique choice that stands out from the typical gifts. It’s perfect for both men and women, making it a versatile option for anyone on your gift list.

• Personalization Options: To make the gift even more special, consider personalizing the storm glass. You can have the recipient’s name or a meaningful message engraved on a plaque or etched onto the glass itself. This customization adds a personal touch and transforms the storm glass into a cherished keepsake.

Started Making Storm Glass Barometers

I was inspired me to create storm glass for my own nerdy curiosities, and I wanted to prove to myself that I could make one. After some experimentation, I shared my glass with my family and friends to get their opinions, and the response was overly positive! I had something different. Also, my product is of higher quality than what is offered on the regular market. Taking their feedback seriously, I made a few adjustments and it was time to take Up High Down Below on the road!

Once I made my first glass, I became obsessed with how cool and how much it changed over time. As a semi-pro photographer who likes to take macro pictures, storm glass gave me an ever changing subject that cannot possibly ever be the same. It is why I want to share my passion with the world, because once you place eyes on one in real life you’ll see what a super awesome and intriguing experience it can be!

It is why UpHighDownBelow storm glass has been such a hit on Etsy. If you want to get someone a unique or uncommon gift, especially if the people you’re shopping for have a discerning eye for interesting off the beaten path types of goodies, this is it! I had a friend looking for a unique 30th birthday gift ideas for him… and this fit the bill!

What’s Storm Glass Used For?

Storm glass is known to be used in nautical applications where folks on their ships reference the glass to indicate changes in weather. Picture a ship sitting in the ocean. The wind is steadily blowing across the bow, and as air blows past the glass, the navigator notices the glass is changing. It’s changing from relatively clear, but now on the windward side of the enclosure — there are tiny crystals starting to grow. The tiny crystals indicate a drop in temperature, which could be an indicator of a cold front, and thus a shift in air pressure, a shift in wind…. etc.

While we might not find ourselves sitting on a boat staring at storm glass, it still makes for a gorgeous display of change. We have transitioned from mid-nineteenth century technology to something that looks good, and we rely on the National Weather Service to give the real storm guidance.

The temperature drops, the chemical reaction results in crystal growth that resembles frost and suspended snow flakes. Just look at the pictures below! It’s freaking awesome!