DVH Fluorescent Sphalerite Bead, Horn Silver Mine, Utah, 22x17x12mm (5837)
I hand-cut this piece from sphalerite. Matte finish. Dimensions are in the title. I did my best to capture the fluorescent effect with my Convoy long-wave flashlight and iPhone, then edited the background to show the colors clearly. The appearance will vary depending on your lighting, but the photos give you a solid idea of the color.
The rough material for this piece came from the renowned Horn Silver Mine in Frisco, Utah, known for its rich history of silver production dating back to the 1870s. This unique sphalerite is distinguished by its deep grey color and sparkling, opaque surface that captures light in a subtle yet intriguing way. Unlike typical sphalerite, this material is special due to its striking fluorescence, emitting a brilliant orange glow under long-wave ultraviolet (UV) light. It’s also phosphorescent, meaning it continues to glow after the UV light source is removed, and triboluminescent, emitting a tiny burst of light in the dark when struck or abraded.
What makes this sphalerite truly unique is the variation in its fluorescence. While yellow-orange is the dominant color, some pieces can fluoresce in multiple colors depending on the specific activators within the mineral, offering a rare and fascinating display for collectors. Although not the hardest material, this sphalerite is a stunning addition to any collection of fluorescent minerals, offering a beautiful way to experience the magical world of geological wonders. It's perfect for collectors who appreciate the beauty of minerals that surprise and delight when exposed to UV light, and serves as a conversation starter for anyone interested in fluorescent minerals.
Metaphysically, the unique properties of fluorescence, phosphorescence, and triboluminescence in this sphalerite symbolize the transformation and flow of energy in various forms—fluorescence activated by long-wave ultraviolet light, phosphorescence that absorbs and re-emits light over time, and triboluminescence created through physical interaction. These qualities represent the awakening, sustaining, and release of energy, reflecting the dynamic nature of change and healing.
These properties are believed to aid emotional healing by clearing stagnant energy and promoting a continual flow of positive, radiant energy. The glowing nature of this material also serves as a reminder of the inner light we all carry, encouraging growth and the ability to shine through even the darkest moments. Long-wave ultraviolet light reveals hidden colors that aren’t visible to the naked eye, symbolizing how our true potential and hidden strengths can emerge when we’re open to seeing beyond the surface and embracing the unseen aspects of ourselves.
