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Neon signs have become synonymous with vibrant cityscapes, glowing advertisements, and timeless artistic flair. But how did neon lighting come to be, and what’s the story behind this captivating glow? At Neon Creations, we dive into the fascinating history of neon — from its scientific discovery to its rise, decline, and modern revival.
Neon is a noble gas found in trace amounts (about 0.0018%) in the Earth’s atmosphere. When electrified inside a sealed glass tube, this otherwise invisible gas emits a striking reddish-orange glow. The word neon is derived from the Greek word neos, meaning “new,” a fitting name for this once mysterious element.
Neon was first discovered in 1898 by British chemists Sir William Ramsay and Morris W. Travers. While experimenting with liquefied air, they isolated neon gas and observed its unique bright red light when an electrical current passed through it. This discovery paved the way for a new form of illumination that was unlike anything seen before.
The practical use of neon as a light source was pioneered by French engineer Georges Claude. By 1902, Claude successfully created luminous neon lamps by applying high voltage to sealed glass tubes filled with neon gas. He patented this invention in 1910 and demonstrated the first neon sign in Paris that same year, including one for a local hairdresser’s business. Claude also learned that mixing neon with other gases could produce a range of vivid colours.
Neon signs crossed the Atlantic when American businessman Earle C. Anthony ordered the first neon sign for his Packard car dealership in Los Angeles in 1923. From there, neon exploded in popularity across major US cities, lighting up iconic spots like Times Square in New York and the casinos of Las Vegas. Neon signs became symbols of innovation, nightlife, and glamour throughout the 1920s and 1930s.
By the mid-20th century, neon signage began to wane due to the rise of cheaper LED technologies, changing advertising trends, and urban decay in certain areas. However, today neon is experiencing a renaissance – not just as retro urban décor but as an admired art form. Neon Creations is proud to carry forward this heritage, handcrafting bespoke neon signs that combine traditional glass tubing with contemporary design to brighten homes, businesses, and special events across the UK.
From its humble origins in a Paris workshop to becoming an iconic feature of city skylines, neon lighting continues to captivate. Whether you want to hire or buy a neon sign bursting with colour and personality, the legacy of neon lives on in every handcrafted tube and glowing letter.
Discover Your Own Neon Story
Ready to bring the magic of neon to your space? Explore our collection of bespoke and personalised neon signs or contact us for a custom creation designed just for you.
