What Is the Liquid in Glitter Lamps?

Lava and glitter lamps are often made with the same liquids.

Many different companies manufacture glitter lamps, and each company has its own formula for the liquid they use. Some lamps have a single liquid and others use two liquids of similar density.

Basic Science

Two liquids that don't mix are considered insoluble. This applies to oil and water. Most manufacturers use this science principle in their glitter lamps to show a separation of liquids.

Density

Oil is more dense than water.

The insoluble mixture in glitter lamps is made from two liquids that have similar density. Oil is heavier than water, so salt is often added to the water to increase the density. When the oil is heated it expands and floats, moving the glitter particles around the lamp, according to the "Simply '70s" website.

Glitter Types

Some lamps feature standard glitter, which could be purchased at any craft store. But, there are some manufacturers that prefer to use colloidal particles. These are fine particles that don't settle out of the liquid.

Single Liquid

When using a colloidal particle, whether it is a certain type of glitter or pearlescent beads, the manufacturer only uses a single liquid to make the colloidal solution. This liquid may be water, mineral oil or even glycerin, according to the website "Science Clarified."

Oils

Almost any household oil could be used in a glitter lamp, but each has a different tint. For glitter lamps to look clear and the oil and water to seem like a single liquid, most lamps use an oil similar to baby oil or mineral oil.

References

• "Science Clarified": Colloid
• "Simply '70s": Lava Brand and other brand lamps
• "The Straight Dope": How do lava lamps work?

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish