Yard globe facts for kids

A yard globe, also called a gazing ball or garden globe, is a shiny, round decoration often seen in gardens. It looks like a large, mirrored sphere. People usually place these globes on a special stand made of ceramic or metal, or sometimes directly on the grass. They add a touch of sparkle and reflection to outdoor spaces.

What Are Gazing Balls?

Gazing balls are round, reflective objects used as decorations in gardens and yards. They are also known by many other names, like lawn ball, garden ball, mirror ball, chrome ball, or orb. These globes come in different sizes, from very small ones (about 1 inch across) to very large ones (up to 10 meters wide). However, the most common size for a gazing ball is about 12 inches (30 centimeters) across.

Materials Used for Gazing Globes

Originally, gazing balls were made from glass. Today, you can find them made from many different materials. These include:

• Stainless steel, which is very durable and shiny.
• Acrylic, a type of plastic that is lighter and less likely to break than glass.
• Ceramic, which can be colorful and decorative.
• Stained glass, creating beautiful patterns and colors when light shines through.

How Gazing Balls Are Placed

Gazing balls come in different shapes to help them sit securely. Some have a small stem at the bottom. This stem helps them fit perfectly into a stand, keeping them stable. Other gazing balls are more uniformly round and can simply be placed on the ground or a flat surface. While very large gazing balls can be made, their heavy weight can make them difficult to lift and place onto a stand.

History of Garden Globes

Gazing balls have a long history, dating back centuries. They were first used in Europe, especially in Italy, during the 13th century. These early globes were often made of glass and were believed to bring good luck or even ward off evil spirits. They became popular in Victorian-era gardens, adding a touch of elegance and mystery to outdoor landscapes.

Why People Use Gazing Balls

People use gazing balls for several reasons. They are primarily decorative, adding a unique visual element to a garden. The mirrored surface reflects the surrounding plants, sky, and sunlight, creating interesting light effects and making the garden appear larger. Some people also enjoy the way they reflect the changing seasons or the movement of clouds. For others, they simply add a classic and charming touch to their outdoor living areas.

Images for kids

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  A gazing ball in a garden located in Breda, Netherlands