The story of neon begins in the late 19th century, when scientists were unlocking the secrets of the periodic table. In 1898, British chemists William Ramsay and Morris Travers discovered neon, a noble gas, while experimenting with liquefied air. Its name, derived from the Greek word “neos,” means “new”—a fitting label for what would become a revolutionary element.

Neon itself doesn’t glow until it’s electrified. This breakthrough came in 1910 when French engineer Georges Claude developed the first neon light. Claude demonstrated his invention at the Paris Motor Show in 1910, where the glowing tubes captivated audiences. By 1912, he was selling neon signage, and soon after, the streets of Paris were bathed in the otherworldly glow.

Neon’s popularity exploded in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s. Dubbed “liquid fire,” these vibrant signs became icons of bustling cities, advertising everything from diners to theaters. Los Angeles’ “liquor store” signs and Las Vegas’ dazzling strip are both enduring legacies of neon’s golden age.

By the mid-20th century, cheaper fluorescent lights began replacing neon, but the allure of its retro charm never faded. Today, neon is celebrated as an art form, with artists and collectors preserving its legacy. Its nostalgic glow continues to inspire, illuminating a world of innovation and artistry.