There are many tools intended for predicting the weather. While you can find some modern and digital options, you might also want to go analog and traditional. A storm glass predicts the weather from the crystal formations that occur inside itself.
Stormglasses appeared in the 18th century and were intended to be a cheaper option than barometers, which were quite expensive then. The storm glass weather predictor inventor is unknown, but 100 years after its invention, the British Royal Navy started using it more and more.
This device was used aboard the HMS Beagle by officer Admiral Robert Fitzroy. It is why sometimes this tool will bear his name. We will show you the best storm glass weather predictors if you want to go traditional with weather prediction. It includes how they work and how to place them on your windows.
Summary
We tested a bunch of different products and found that the best storm glass weather predictor was SUNJULY. Here are our different category winners:
- Best cheap storm glass weather predictor: SUNJULY
- Best decorative storm glass weather predictor: CAVALLO MERCANTILE
- Best vintage storm glass weather predictor: Globe crystal
Why you can trust us & how we picked
We tried all the different storm glass weather predictors to see how they stack up and only highlighted the ones we thought were worthy.
Best storm glass weather predictors
Because these products are not expensive, everyone can purchase one regardless of their budget. It is also an excellent addition to your house because it is both a practical and decorative item.
The weather predictions will assist you in planning your days accordingly. At the same time, the specific shape will catch the attention of your guests, which will surely be impressive. We researched the market and even purchased one storm glass ourselves. Here are the best storm glass weather predictorswe could find:
1. Best cheap option – SUNJULY
This storm glass is made with high-quality materials. The company that manufactured them has a strong reputation in the decoration industry. It is the best option if you want a great addition to your living room.
It works the same way it did hundreds of years ago. It’s using a special chemical composition to predict the approaching weather. You can predict storms, fog, or snowfalls up to three days before they arrive.
Practical and very easy to operate, you only have to pay attention to the water in the glass. If it is clear, the weather is sunny. However, a storm is approaching if the water suddenly gets cloudy. You don’t have to worry about this tool breaking down, as the high-grade glass has excellent durability.
| Name | SUNJULY |
| Item Weight | 3.17 ounces |
| Manufacturer | SUNJULY |
| Product Dimensions | 2.76 x 2.36 x 1.57 inches |
Pros
- It’s really cute and decorative.
Cons
- It’s a bit small
2. Best decorative piece – CAVALLO MERCANTILE with Dark Wood Base
If you are looking for a storm glass weather predictor that also looks good, this is the best option for you. We also purchased and tried this model mainly because it has both efficiency and good looks incorporated into one high-quality piece. The crystals inside the glass will constantly change to reflect weather changes.
If the weather gets cloudy, the crystals themselves will form a cloud inside the bottle to signal you that there won’t be any available direct sunshine soon. If it’s wintertime, the crystals will rise to the top and slowly snow down.
| Name | CAVALLO MERCANTILE |
| Item Weight | 1.15 pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 8.5 x 4.25 x 4.17 inches |
Because it is also a good decorative addition to any house, you can purchase this product as a gift for your loved ones. The dark wood base is a unique feature not found in any other storm glasses. It also helps keep the storm glass upright, and you can place this item on any surface.
Pros
- Ith as a very classic look to it.
Cons
- It’s not always available on Amazon.
3. Best vintage option – Creative Weather Station with Wooden Base
It is another high-quality storm product that is made with premium materials only. It comes in a special gift box which you can then give away to someone in your life that is passionate about meteorology. This gift box is upgraded and will reduce the damage from transit and shipping.
A creative decoration, this product is similar to the ones used on wooden ships hundreds of years ago. The special design of a globe held by a wooden stand makes this a vintage piece, which is also a great decoration for any room.
Be advised that you must wait up to 2 weeks after the product arrives. During this time, the storm glass will adapt to the environment. It will eventually be able to predict the weather accurately.
Pros
- It’ll get your globetrotter juices flowing.
- The setup is very easy.
Cons
- We think it would have looked better with darker wood.
4. Best fancy option – Bottle Diamond
This product will satisfy you if you are looking for something more sophisticated. A diamond-shaped storm glass is just what you need if your living room features exquisite items such as cigars or fine drinks. While looking great on your window, this storm glass will also accurately predict the weather.
Special chemicals will react to the pressure and temperature change to predict the incoming storms. It works well in both summer and winter, as it can accurately predict rainfall or snowfall.
Many satisfied customers purchased this product as a gift for their loved ones. Giving someone a diamond-shaped storm glass will make them remember you for this special gesture. However, do not forget to tell them that a minimum of 2 weeks of acclimatization are necessary before seeing accurate results.
Pros
- It changes with the weather, the way it’s supposed to.
Cons
- The diamond shape could make you think of buying more diamonds, and those are expensive.
5. Best minimalistic option – Kikkerland ST717
This simple product is ideal if you have a minimalistic style and don’t want something complicated. The simple design makes it more practical than other models intended for decoration.
Place it in your library or bedroom where you can see it every day. When you wake up, check the inside condition of the glass and interpret the change with the help of instructions provided by the manufacturer.
| Name | Kikkerland ST71 |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Item Weight | 6.3 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Kikkerland |
| Product Dimensions | 5.5 x 2.4 x 2.4 inches |
Special markings on the glass indicate the forecast, and the crystals will always be contained inside the glass tube. A solid wood base ensures stability on any surface.
Pros
- It works as intended.
- It’s a nice addition to your window.
Cons
- It’s a bit smaller than I expected.
6. Best modern option – Bits and Pieces – LED Light-Up Color Changing
The LED-lighted base makes this product unique and different from the other storm glasses. It makes the crystal formations glow in various shades. This way, you can interpret the weather even at night or in low visibility conditions.
Because of this special addition, the storm glass also becomes a wonderful decorative piece that will light up any room. For the lights, you will need three AAA batteries not included in the package when you order them.
If you want to place this item in a specific place, be advised that the weather globe measures 4 inches and diameter and stands 6 inches high on its base.
Pros
- It came packaged nicely.
Cons
- Some of the other designs are more intricate.
7. Best unique shape option – Forecaster, Liquid Barometer Swan Shape Bottle
While most storm glass weather predictors are shaped like a globe or teardrop, this special model features the beautiful shape of a swan. High borosilicate glass ensures excellent quality and malleability that let artisans get creative when designing this product’s shape.
This item works well both as a weather predictor and decoration piece. An ancient principle lets us predict severe weather based on the changes in air pressure. This swan-shaped beauty will do the same. You can plan your days ahead and always be updated about the weather.
Different patterns can form inside the glass, and all of them represent specific weather. The manufacturer provides clear instructions, which will help you determine the conditions before going outside.
Pros
- It’s really elegant.
Cons
- Longer delivery times.
- It’s not great for people that despise swans.
Factors to consider
When you’re buying a glass weather predictor, here are some factors to consider.
Design
You’ll want a design that matches what you’re trying to achieve. If you want a look worthy of an executive, choose something simple but extravagant.
Size
They come in a range of sizes, so make sure you find out the size you want as it’ll probably be by a window.
Brand
Look into the brands offering these products and get one from a company that aligns with your values.
Cost
The storm glass weather predictors come with different price tags, so be sure you’re getting one that adequately fits your budget.
Reviews
Some people are skeptical of whether or not these products actually manage to predict storms. It’s one of the reasons you’ll want to read reviews before deciding.
Quality of the glass
With high-quality glass, you’re less likely to end up with a mess on your hands if it falls a short distance. It’s still a glass product, but you can make sure it’s a quality one.
How much do they cost?
As we tested out various products, we found that storm glass weather predictors usually cost between $12 and $60. Although you can pay more, this price range will get you a very decorative one.
