Lava Lamp Value Guide

Invented in 1963 by British accountant Edward Craven Walker, the Lava Lamp became a definitive symbol of 1960s and 70s psychedelic counterculture. Originally called the 'Astro Lamp,' its mesmerizing motion was inspired by a homemade egg timer found in a UK pub.

What affects the value of Lava Lamp?

• Condition of the wax and liquid clarity; cloudy liquid significantly reduces the $40-$80 value.
• Rarity of the color combination between the wax and the surrounding liquid.
• Originality of the electrical components and the integrity of the metal base.
• Historical provenance, specifically if it is an early British production model from the 1960s.

How to Identify Lava Lamp?

• Check for the original 'Astro Lamp' branding on the base or cap for early UK models.
• Verify the presence of a glass vessel containing a suspension of colored wax and liquid.
• Examine the metal base and cap for authentic 1960s-1970s manufacturing marks.
• Ensure the heating element is integrated into the metal base to facilitate the wax movement.

History of Lava Lamp

The lava lamp was invented in 1963 by British accountant Edward Craven Walker. He was inspired by an egg timer he saw in a pub, which was made from a cocktail shaker filled with liquids bubbling on a stove top. He spent years perfecting the lamp, originally calling it 'Astro Lamp'. It became a pop culture icon of the 1960s and 70s, symbolizing psychedelic counterculture.