Earl McNeil creates wonderful polarized kaleidoscopes. Optically both kaleidoscopes pictured here have three-mirror equilateral mirror systems. Special birefringent materials fill the object chambers that are capped with polarizing filters. Essentially the filters stop certain light frequencies or waves from entering the chamber. The birefringent material breaks the light into the visible frequencies of color - red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.

Looking through a McNeil polarized kaleidoscope is like seeing snowflakes or ice crystals. A black background highlights the white formations. Accented by polarized colors the effects are nothing short of stunning. Be prepared to experiment with various light sources - sun light is the best for viewing polarized kaleidoscopes, but not limited to only sunlight. I like to aim the kaleidoscope right at the light source, but am often surprised by the effects of indirect light.

The burl wood on base measures 9 inches long with a 1.5-inch diameter. $150.

The Inlaid wood kaleidoscope measures 9.25 inches long with a 2-inch diameter. $150.