Crookes Radiometer

~$20 typical price

A glass bulb holding a partial vacuum and a set of light and dark vanes that spin in sunlight.

Why it makes a great gift

A Victorian desk curiosity whose real explanation still trips people up, which makes it a great conversation piece.

Great for: Her Wife Girlfriend Mom Sister Him Husband Boyfriend
Occasions: Christmas Birthday Mother's Day Father's Day Housewarming Secret Santa White Elephant Stocking Stuffer

Featured in these gift guides

~$25

A beautiful night light with a touch of wonder.

Science NerdsHomebodiescozy

~$90

It turns a chart everyone memorized in school into an object you can actually look at: real copper, real bismuth, real carbon.

Science NerdsHomebodiesunique

~$30

A handsome shelf piece that quietly demonstrates buoyancy and density every day.

Science NerdsHomebodiesunique

~$55

A satisfying daily readout for curious people, gardeners and weather watchers.

Science NerdsHomebodiespractical