I was listening to an episode of one of my favorite podcasts last week - Mind Pump in case you're wondering - and the guys started talking about "the glitter conspiracy". Well of course I had to dive into this since I practically use it EVERY DAY making all of VGB Jewelry's earrings!
The "glitter conspiracy" is a fascinating and somewhat humorous internet phenomenon that emerged around 2018. It revolves around a peculiar piece of investigative journalism by Caity Weaver, published in The New York Times on December 21, 2018. Weaver's article explores the glitter industry and reveals a mysterious and tantalizing detail: one of the largest consumers of glitter refused to disclose how they used it.
The Origins of the Conspiracy
During her investigation, Weaver visited Glitterex, one of the leading glitter manufacturers. While interviewing a company representative, she asked about the biggest buyers of glitter. The representative's response was unexpectedly secretive and cryptic. She said that she couldn't reveal the name of the industry that buys the most glitter and added that the consumer wouldn't want anyone to know how it's used.
The Internet's Reaction
This enigmatic statement sparked wild speculation and curiosity online. People began to wonder why an industry would need to keep its use of glitter a secret. Theories ranged from the plausible to the absurd, including:
- Military Applications: Some speculated that glitter might be used in military technology, perhaps in camouflage or signal equipment.
- Cosmetics and Fashion: Given the heavy use of glitter in these industries, some theorized that a major cosmetics or fashion brand might be the secret consumer.
- Food Industry: There was speculation that glitter could be used in food products, despite potential health concerns.
- Counterfeit Money: A more outlandish theory suggested that glitter could be used in the production of counterfeit money or security features in currency.
Why the Secrecy?
The most likely reason for the secrecy is competitive advantage. If a particular industry or company has found a novel and lucrative use for glitter, they would naturally want to keep that information confidential to maintain their edge.
The Impact
The glitter conspiracy captured the imagination of the public and media, becoming a popular topic of discussion and intrigue. It highlights how a seemingly mundane topic can become a source of widespread curiosity and speculation when an element of mystery is introduced.
Conclusion
While the true nature of the glitter conspiracy remains undisclosed, it continues to spark interest and debate. The story is a reminder of the power of secrecy and how it can turn even the most ordinary subjects into captivating mysteries.
So, the next time you see glitter in my creations, remember that this sparkling substance holds more secrets than meets the eye!