A musical snow globe combines two popular luxury inventions: the snow globe and the music box. Most musical snow globes present a winter scene simulation within a glass dome. The globe owner can manipulate this scene by making tiny snow-like particles swirl and also by prompting a preinstalled musical score. Snow globe toys are often a fixture during holidays and the winter season, and the musical snow globe is among the most-given musical gifts.
The snow globe itself constitutes the main portion of a musical snow dome. These devices are characterized by three primary features, namely a clear glass ball, an abundance of white particles, and a liquid substance. The makeup of the liquid contained within the snow globe has evolved from plain water to oil or a water and antifreeze mixture. A number of different substances have also represented the snow over time, including sand, bone or porcelain fragments, soap flakes, glitter, and pieces of plastic. As for the rounded pane of glass that houses these materials, it is typically placed atop a base made of wood, metal, or plastic.
Snow globes operate by shaking the globe, winding a key, or pressing a button. These actions facilitate the spread of the snow-like particles through the liquid in the globe, thus providing the illusion of snowfall. The particles settle around artistic objects placed within the container. Said objects may be hand-carved or manufactured by machines. While recreated small villages or wintry activities are particularly prevalent, snow globe manufacturers can simulate almost any object for the featured scene: from cartoon characters to famous landmarks.
The addition of music makes the musical snow globe unique from its counterparts. The music component usually functions through the installation of a music box motor into the base of the globe. An elongated piece of metal is typically attached to this motor. The metal extends to the outside of the base, ending in either a button or a winding key mechanism.
When the globe owner interacts with this extension, the motor will be triggered and music will play. Various selections of music may be utilized in a musical snow globe, but most contain just the music with no lyrics or singing. In many cases, the simulated snow fall and the music feature will work in unison.
A musical snow globe can be a charming and whimsical gift or home décor feature, but proper maintenance is vital to ensuring its longevity. Extreme hot or cold temperatures can result in leaking, discoloration, or evaporation of the liquid. Further, regular dusting will prevent any buildup of foreign particles within the inner workings of the globe. Use of a mild, non-abrasive cleaner is also essential to maintain the cleanliness of the glass portions. For musical snow globes in particular, one must take care to use winders or buttons gently and sporadically to prevent overuse and breakage.