There is something about wind chimes that make them special. They are made from various materials, with intricate designs and details that create an appealing masterpiece for decoration. Functional and decorative wind chimes are found all across the world with talented artisans offering a wide variety of options for the consumers.
What are wind chimes?
So, let us look into what wind chimes actually mean. In the range of various musical instruments, the wind chimes belong to the percussion family.
These are assembled from hanging tubes, bells, rods, or other objects. These elements are usually made from various materials, such as metal or wood.
These elements are suspended from a surface or a weight. Hence, they strike or hit against one another when the natural air blows it. You must be wondering what is so special about these wind chimes and what makes them so famous. Thus, keep reading below to find more about these wind chimes.
Let us look into a brief history of this instrument. Who invented this windchime is the first most question that occurs in the mind?
According to the research by the Times of India, the wind chimes first came into sight in 1100BC. This study dates back to the ancient era when an ancient Chinese emperor and the various cultures projected the first wind bells. It is also known as Fenglings.
There is a belief that these fenglings were considered religious objects, which could attract kind spirits. This is understandable. However, it is widely spread in western culture too.
According to a study, in the 1800s, when Japan opened its harbours for the western countries, the eastern traditional goods and services were made available in Europe and America via trading. Hence, now the wind chimes are widely spread all across the world. Whether it is hung at the entrance or in the garden, literally 1 in 10 households, use a wind chime to adorn their homes. You can shop windchimes here from online stores.
What are the materials used for wind chimes?
As mentioned above, it can be of either metal or wood. However, there are other materials also that can be used, such as:
- Glass
- Bamboo
- Plastic
Other elements used to create a detailed aesthetic wind chime include:
- Shells
- Stones
- Earthenware
- Stoneware
- Beads
- Keys
- Porcelain
- Cookie cutters
- Traditional elements
Some also use exotic elements like silverware in their wind chimes. These wind chimes are a great decorative piece that produces melodious sounds and creates a lively atmosphere.
Besides that, it is also said that wind chimes and windcatchers are used to eliminate the negative energy in the atmosphere and attract positivity and calmness.
Did you know?
Jim Bolin created the world’s largest wind chime. It was built in 2012 and is 42 feet tall. This wind chime lies in Casey, Illinois. The tubes are made from metal, and there are five of them.
What are the different types of wind chimes?
- Tubular chimes
- Bell chimes
- Decorative chimes
- Memorial chimes
- Gong chimes