Every year, when the first snow falls and the scent of cinnamon and fir branches fills the air, the most wonderful time of the year begins for me. My mother fetches the boxes of Christmas decorations from the basement, while I pull out my beloved Christmas balls. These shiny baubles, sparkling in the light of the Christmas tree, are more than just decorations—they are memories, stories, and a legacy passed down from generation to generation.
The history of the Christmas bauble
The tradition of Christmas baubles is closely linked to the history of the Christmas tree. People in Germany began decorating Christmas trees as early as the 16th century. Back then, however, they didn't use baubles, but rather apples, nuts, and other natural materials. The first Christmas bauble as we know it today was probably made in the 19th century in the small town of Lauscha in Thuringia. Glassblowers there crafted the first hand-blown Christmas tree baubles. These baubles were initially a cheap alternative to the apples used as Christmas tree decorations, especially in years when the harvest was poor. But they soon developed into true works of art that shone in living rooms and captured people's hearts.
Christmas balls as heirlooms: more than just jewelry
it is magic that touches hearts
For me, Christmas baubles are much more than mere decorative objects. Each bauble I hang on the tree tells its own story. There's the fragile glass bauble that once belonged to my grandmother, or the ornately decorated bauble my mother bought as a young girl. These heirlooms are priceless—not only for their material value, but above all for the memories they carry.
Particularly valuable Christmas baubles are often passed down through generations. They are part of family history, a symbol of togetherness and tradition. These baubles are often handmade, with delicate decorations and made of precious materials such as glass, porcelain, or even silver. Each bauble is unique, a small work of art that is lovingly hung on the tree each year.
Christmas decorations today: diversity and tradition in harmony
Christmas decorations have diversified considerably over time. In addition to the classic baubles, there is now a seemingly endless selection of shapes and materials. From stars and angels to glittering snowflakes and modern designs – there's something for every taste. Despite this diversity, the Christmas bauble remains the central element of the tree. Its round shape symbolizes perfection and infinity, and its radiance reminds us that the light of Christmas drives away the darkness.
Most people, myself included, choose new ornaments to decorate their tree each year, but the precious heirlooms always have a special place.
The worldwide spread of the tradition
The tradition of Christmas tree decorations has spread from Germany throughout the world over the centuries. Today, Christmas trees and their decorations can be found in almost every country, from Europe to America to Asia. Each culture has developed its own interpretations and customs, but the Christmas bauble remains a universal symbol of festivity and joy.
In countries like the US or the UK, Christmas baubles are often lavishly decorated and found in large numbers on the tree. In Japan, however, where Christmas is celebrated more as a romantic holiday, minimalist yet elegant baubles often adorn the trees.
A look into the future
Even though trends change and new designs and colors appear each year, the tradition of the Christmas bauble will continue. It is an integral part of our Christmas traditions, a symbol of love and togetherness.
For me, decorating the tree with the old, precious baubles will always be a highlight of the Christmas season. It's the moment when I pause, sense the stories of my ancestors, and reflect on what's truly important: family, tradition, and the little things that make our lives so special.
As you decorate the tree this year, take a moment to reflect on the meaning of each bauble. Perhaps you'll pass on the story of your favorite bauble to the next generation, so they too can one day cherish this treasure and carry on the magic of the Christmas bauble.
How do I wrap the Christmas baubles?
As collectors of special Christmas baubles, we have developed a system over the years to package these precious treasures safely and consistently. This resulted in the Christmas bauble sorting box, which was specially designed to optimally protect our valuable tree decorations. These boxes offer a suitable insert for all sizes, so it doesn't matter whether the ornaments are baubles, bells, cones, birds, or other shapes. Every treasure finds its safe place and can be hung on the tree year after year without damage.
If you would like to learn more about the perfect storage and protection of your Christmas baubles, please check out our other blog post on the subject, in which we go into detail about the advantages of the Christmas bauble sorting box and give practical tips for storage.