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I love the sound of gently tinkling wind chimes in the breeze, primarily because it reminds me of being eight and eating popsicles on my grandma’s back porch in the summer which fills me with a comforting responsibility-free sense of well-being.
If you are also soothed by the tone of wind chimes outside your front door (or maybe you’re just looking for a thoughtful gift for your own grandma), we have recommendations for wooden, glass, and metal chimes. Each produce a slightly different tone, though all are mellow and pleasant.
What Are the Different Types of Wind Chimes?
The tone a wind chime makes depends on the material it is made of. Bamboo or metal tubing or shoots are common, as are glass or crystal tiles. In addition to the sound, differences in material and design change the look or aesthetic of the wind chimes.
Metal: Wind chimes made of metals like copper or steel are popular, as they are durable and capable of producing a variety of pleasant tones. Bonus: metal wind chimes placed in the north, northwest, or west areas of your home offer protection and strength according to feng shui.
Wood:Bamboo is a common material for wooden wind chimes, which produce a deeper and more mellow tone than metal, for an overall earthier vibe. We like bamboo in particular because it is usually the most eco-friendly.
Glass or Porcelain: These chimes can often sound brighter and sharper than metal or wood, and offer more variety in terms of decoration.