Mini Fitzroy Storm Glass

The mini version of our popular storm glass.

The storm glass was a method of predicting the weather promoted in the late 1800s by Admiral Robert Fitzroy.

The sealed glass tube contains a liquid which changes appearance over time reportedly predicting on coming weather changes. Admiral Fitzroy distributed these storm barometers to small fishing communities around the British Isles. They were used to determine whether it was safe for the ships in port to set sail.

This neat 15cm storm glass adds a touch of seafaring charm to your room and makes an interesting conversation piece.

Age: 12+ (this is not a toy. It is made from glass)

What you get

Mini Fitzroy Storm Glass (15cm) in an attractive box.

How does it work?

A storm glass works on the principle that temperature and pressure affect solubility, sometimes resulting in clear liquid; other times causing precipitants to form. The liquid within the glass is a mixture of several chemicals including, distilled water, ethanol, potassium nitrate, ammonium chloride, and camphor. The exact method by which the storm glass works is not fully understood. Explanations include changes in barometric pressure, changes in temperature, and the effects of electricity across the glass. Nevertheless, the crystals in a storm glass are constantly evolving, and they are said to indicate the following weather conditions:

Clear Liquid = Fair Weather

Murky Liquid = Cloudy/Rainy Weather

Crystals at the top = Thunderstorms

Crystals at the bottom = Frost

Large Flaky Crystals = Cloudy skies, snow in winter

Thread of Crystals = Windy weather