Chemists have uncovered the secret of Stradivari violins.

Italian chemists studied two violins by Antonio Stradivari and found out that the master covered them with a composition of animal proteins before varnishing. Among them was collagen. This layer filled in the smallest irregularities, influenced the resonance and improved the sound of bowed instruments. This is not the only secret of Stradivarius. A few years ago, Taiwanese chemists found a mineral preservative made from calcium, copper, aluminum, sodium, and zinc on the master's tools. Most likely, Stradivari did not just apply it to the wood - the preservative was part of the soaking of the wood.