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Please place your order before December 12th for guaranteed delivery for Christmas!

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Our in-house gift wrapping service includes our Italian off-set printed patterned paper, matching Swiss double satin ribbon, foiled sticker seals instead of tape and one card for your message. Kindly note we do not gift-wrap decorative papers, wrapping materials such as ribbon, wrapping paper and greeting cards...

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Pink Light Mill

£45.00
SizeSmall

The light mill consists of an airtight glass bulb containing a partial vacuum. Inside are a set of vanes which are mounted on a spindle. The vanes rotate when exposed to light, with faster rotation for more intense light, providing a quantitative measurement of electromagnetic radiation intensity.

The light mill, AKA Crookes' radiometer, was invented in 1873 by British chemist and physicist Sir William Crookes (also responsible for creating the first 100% ultraviolet blocking sunglass lens). The device was a by-product of some chemical research, invented by coincidence while Crookes was actually researching something else.

The Light Mill consists of an airtight glass bulb, containing a partial vacuum. Inside are a set of slate vanes which are mounted on a spindle. When exposed to sunlight, artificial light, or infrared radiation, the vanes turn with no apparent motive power, the dark sides retreating from the radiation source and the light sides advancing. The increase of light/heat intensity will result on a faster rotation, providing a quantitative measurement of electromagnetic radiation intensity.

In the Victorian era, the concept of a mechanical device powered by light - or heat - was pretty much unknown, therefore, Crookes' radiometer (also sometimes called Solar Engine) can be considered one of the first examples of solar power.

While quantum physics is becoming one of the most fascinating sciences of our century and many find inspiration in claims like: "Everything is made of moving energy", you can simply enjoy our Light Mills as beautiful decorative objects. They are hand blown by skilled glass makers, in different sizes, colours and shade variations. Each piece is unique. Place it in a sunny room, on a window sill or on your office desk: its lively energy will keep you great company!

Important: This is not a mass produced item, but is handmade, using natural materials including slate. Because of this, the colour and size of each mill can vary slightly. The panes of slate are painted black on one side and it is entirely normal that very small flecks of paint should (not always) fall off - so long as the light mill is spinning when exposed to light, this does not constitute a fault.

Small
Height: 14cm
Width: 7cm
Weight: 39g

Large
Height: 16.5cm
Width: 8.5cm
Weight: 66g

Material: Handblown glass and slate

Fragile glassware, handle with care.

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Gift wrapping available

Worldwide delivery

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Pink Light Mill

£45.00
FAQ

Do You Offer Gift Wrapping?

Yes, gift wrapping can be chosen before checkout and is a £10 flat fee, which includes a card and envelope for you to leave a message. We use premium materials, our in-house Italian paper and Swiss ribbon and an assortment of branded stickers.

How can I amend my order?

Once placed, orders cannot be modified and the address cannot be changed. This is to avoid errors in processing. If you have made an error, please email to request a cancellation, you can then place a new order with the correct details. Once shipped an order cannot be cancelled, it will need to be returned.

What if something is out of stock?

If an item in your order is unavailable, our team will contact you in writing to let you know and discuss your options. We’ll do our best to suggest alternatives or advise when the item is expected back in stock. During busy seasonal periods, if an item under £10 is out of stock, we’ll issue a refund for that product and send the rest of your order so you receive it without delay.

Can I buy gift vouchers?

Digital Gift Cards can be purchased through our website and are delivered by email, these are redeemable through online purchases only. In-store only gift vouchers can also be purchased by visiting us at our physical store in Covent Garden.

Can I collect my order in store?

Yes, if the items in your basket are available at our shop in Covent Garden, you will be able to select “Pick Up” at that location. Not all items will be available at this location.

Shipping

International shipping

We ship to all Worldwide destinations exclusively using DHL Express. For UK destinations DHL Express is a 24h next working day delivery service.

Dispatch Time

We aim to despatch orders within 48 hours. At busy shopping periods this can take an extra few days. Orders placed after 1pm on Fridays and at the weekend will be sent out Monday at the earliest.

Taxes

Shipping to USA, Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand will be sent Delivered Duty Paid (DDP). This means all customs duties, taxes, and handling fees are already covered at checkout—so your order arrives without any unexpected extra charges.

About Us

Choosing Keeping is an independent shop located in Covent Garden, London. We specialise in offering a wide range of stationery and miscellaneous items to cater to all your needs.

We take pride in offering products that inspire creativity and elevate the art of writing. Whether you're looking for a special gift or simply want to treat yourself, we invite you to explore our collection and discover the joy of stationery.

We offer gift wrapping with premium materials, our in-house Italian paper and Swiss ribbon and an assortment of swallow branded stickers. We ship to all destinations worldwide by DHL.

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21 Tower Street,
London, WC2H 9NS (Map)

T: 020 7613 3842
E:info@choosingkeeping.com
@choosingkeeping