The Superstitious Life of a Wind Chime
Spanning back thousands of years, wind chimes have been used throughout history to ward off evil spirits, bring good luck, help predict the weather, and it's even thought that farmers in Indonesia used wind chimes to ward off animals and other predators from their fields. From England to the Mediterranean to Asia and beyond, wind chimes have been found throughout the world. Over 5000 years later people are still enjoying their beauty and song. Crafted from a variety of material, including glass, bamboo, and metal, wind chimes are still a part of many cultures.
The Evolution of Wind Chime materials A treat for the eyes and ears, wind chimes were originally crafted from bone, wood, bamboo, stone, or shells; each creating their own unique sound. The ancient Celts even used wind chimes to fool their enemies into believing that the forests were haunted, a trick we've seen portrayed in popular movies. However, it wasn't until the Chinese started casting metal chimes around 1100 B.C. that wind chimes began to evolve into a more artistic and musical creation. Hung from the corners and eaves of temples and shrines, these wind chimes were thought to ward off evil spirit and welcome kind spirits. |  |
Let's Talk About the Weather
Wind chimes weren't just used for their charms and mystical properties, though. Throughout time, farmers, sailors, and even loggers have used wind chimes to make short-term weather forecasts using their knowledge of wind speed and direction. For example, winds from the north and northwest often signified colder weather was on the way while a breeze from the south usually meant that warmer weather was on its way. People would also hang several different wind chimes strategically so they could gain a sense of what the wind speed was, as well as which direction it was coming from.
Selections that will Blow You Away
It wasn't until the 19th and 20th centuries that wind chimes became popular in western countries. Still considered to be good luck by many, others enjoy them simply for their beauty and sound. Today's consumers have a huge variety of options when it comes to choosing just the right wind chime for their home. More traditional bamboo wind chimes and wooden wind chimes are still a popular choice while others prefer the delicate beauty of glass wind chimes. Corinthian bells and wind spinners are also some of the top favorites. And in today's modern world, many people up-cycle items such as silverware or cookie cutters to create unique and environmentally friendly wind chimes. Most often seen hanging on a porch or in a garden, the charm, beauty, and magic of wind chimes is just as present today as it was over 5000 years ago.
