National Geographic Magic Chemistry Set Review: Ten Tricks That Turn Kids Into Science Performers

Product Dimensions

7.28 x 3.03 x 10.07 inches

Item Weight

13 ounces

Release date

July 17, 2020

1. Ten experiments designed to be performed as magic tricks, including a floating coin, color-changing water and instant snow.
2. A magic wand and white gloves so children can dress the part.
3. An illustrated, kid-friendly guide that explains the science behind each trick.
4. Blue Marble includes the tools for every experiment, so there is nothing to hunt for.
5. Rated for ages 8 and up.
6. A compact, giftable box at 7.28 x 3.03 x 10.07 inches and 13 ounces.

Based on

The manufacturer's published specifications and the product's live Amazon listing.

Owner rating

4.7 out of 5 on Amazon, recorded September 27, 2026

How we score

We score each thing that comes up most in owner feedback on the National Geographic Magic Chemistry Set. Eight things come up most in owner feedback: seven draw praise and one splits opinion. Its ratings average 4.7 stars (79% five stars, 14% four, 5% three and 2% one or two), so every score starts at 94, that average on a 100 point scale. Where opinion is split, we take off 6. Where it draws mostly complaints, we take off 12. Then we read eight owner reviews in full (every one we found gave it four or five stars) and move the score up to 5 points either way depending on how the owners who mention it rated the product. Our overall score starts from the same 4.7 star average and loses 0.1 for each thing that draws mostly complaints, with 0.1 more when at least a tenth of ratings are one star, never more than 0.3 in all. Nothing comes off here, so it stays at 4.7. Read our editorial standards

It is praised for keeping children engaged and making science feel fun and approachable, and it is widely seen as an excellent gift, with its experiments, educational value, quality and the fact that everything needed is included all drawing strong feedback. Value is the one theme that splits opinion, with some finding it well worth the price and others feeling it is not.

Based on 13,191 Amazon customer ratings, averaging 4.7 out of 5, recorded 27 September 2026. See the reviews on Amazon

1. Read the guide together

   Look through the guide first and choose one trick to start with.

2. Clear a workspace

   Set up at a table that is easy to wipe, with only the materials for that one experiment laid out.

3. Do the experiment

   Follow the guide's steps exactly, with an adult watching and helping younger children.

4. Rehearse the trick

   Once it works, practice presenting it as magic, with the wand and white gloves.

5. Perform and explain

   Put on the show for the family, then have the child explain the science from the guide.